The Scripture makes it very clear that as we focus on purity we experience power from above. Paul stressed this in his final letter to his understudy Timothy. “Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter [i.e., “iniquity”], he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work” (2Ti 2:21). How? The process is simple: God the Father works through the Son. The Son works through the Holy Spirit. The Spirit works through the Word. The Word works through the believer. The believer works through living faith.
1st Thessalonians – The Word Working in You – Uniontown, PA 2007Gene Cunningham - September 11, 2000
Elijah #4
Elijah was "the Prophet" (Mat 5:12), and destined to be persecuted. The greatest prophet, though was Jesus Christ (Luk 4:16-30). In the life of Elijah we see the importance and power of the word of God, obedience to God's will, the power of faith and the power of prayer. The love of God is obvious in His dealing with Israel, Elijah and the widow (1Ki 17:1-24). Elijah was a gentleman in the way he spoke to the widow (1Ki 17:10-11). In his conduct, Elijah is a gentleman in his conduct -- he doesn't argue or defend himself (1Ki 17:17-18). He is a compassionate and understanding, not judgmental. He is a gentleman with courage. God reveals the character of Elijah and Obadiah (1Ki 18:1-15). Obadiah's attitude "God is waiting to discipline me". Elijah ignores him and focuses on God (1Ki 18:15). Obadiah was probably one of the 7000 that have not bowed to Baal. That would have been difficult in the King's court. However, he was compromised -- Elijah rejects his statement (1Ki 18:7-8) and looks at him in grace; Obadiah has excuses to obeying and wants credit (1Ki 18:13-14). Whatever you are going through, consider "all things" (Rom 8:28, Rom 11:32, 1Th 5:19, 2Co 5:18).
Scripture References: Romans 11:32, Romans 8:28, Luke 4:16-30, Matthew 5:12
From Series: "Elijah"
Elijah's life shows us the keys to spiritual power: the power of God's Word faith prayer revival and failure.