“Elijah was afraid and fled for his life. …Then he went on alone into the wilderness, traveling all day. He sat down under a solitary broom tree and prayed that he might die” (1 Kings 19:3-4 NLT).

BEWARE THE VALLEY THAT FOLLOWS THE MOUNTAIN TOP

Elijah, in the power of the Spirit, called fire down from heaven and defeated the 450 prophets of Baal. He called on God to break a 3-year drought and the rains came pouring down. He pulled up his robe and outran King Ahab’s chariot in sandaled feet. But when Ahab’s wife, Jezebel, threatened him, he lost heart. He was struck with fear and ran into the wilderness alone and asked God to let him die. He was exhausted, depressed, and isolated. He went from a victorious mountain top experience to the deepest valley of discouragement in a single day.

We must take care after a great success or an emotional spiritual experience. Ironically, we are often most vulnerable after a “mountain top” event. Right when we are most vulnerable, Satan often sends a “Jezebel” to attack us as we come down from the heights and enter the valley.

Coming down from a mountain top, we must learn to rest, both physically and mentally, as well as spiritually. Take care not to talk too much, neither to others, nor yourself. Be quiet and listen for the Lord’s voice. And perhaps, you’ll hear His “gentle whisper” as Elijah did (1 Kings 19:12). For God often speaks most clearly in the valleys of our lives.

PRAYER: Dear Father, whether we are on the mountain top or in the deepest valley, help us to look and listen for You. And when we are discouraged, give us food and rest for our souls. Open our ears to hear Your gentle whisper of encouragement. In Jesus’ name, amen.