May 13, 2007
Lesson Overview
Biblical Passages: 1 Kings 19:9–18
Supporting Passages: 1 Kings 18:1–46; 19:1–8
Memory Verse: James 5:17–18
Key Question: Why do I sometimes feel low?
Biblical Truth: God is always near even when you feel alone.
Biblical Context: After confronting King Ahab for abandoning the Lord’s commandments and leading the people of Israel into Baal worship, Elijah challenged Ahab and the 450 prophets of Baal and 400 prophets of Asherah to a test on Mount Carmel. Elijah called for the people of Israel to choose who would be their God—Baal or the true God of Israel. Elijah challenged the false prophets to call on their gods to send down fire to consume the sacrifice. It was at that time that both the false prophets prepared a bull for sacrifice and called on their gods to send down fire to no avail. Then Elijah prepared a sacrifice, drenched it in water, and prayed to the true God of Israel. Immediately, the sacrifice, the altar, and the water were consumed by fire sent from God. All the people fell down declaring, “The Lord—He is God.” All the false prophets were slaughtered. So Jezebel, King Ahab’s wife, threatened Elijah’s life, which sent him into hiding. After hiding out in caves and feeling defeated and afraid, Elijah prayed to God to take his life because he felt all alone as one of the last prophets of the true God left standing. God made His presence known to Elijah and assured him that he was not alone because God was near.
Learning Goals:
Understand how God can address the deepest needs of their souls.
Apply understanding of God’s ability to meet our needs in looking to God for comfort in the difficulties they face.