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Double Portion GADDIS

Double Portion The Life and Times of Elijah and Elisha Double Portion GADDIS TODD GADDIS nd possessing the owerful prophets, go your family, church, ntee relationships in the Paul and Timothy come to guing, influential, and Elisha. With combined ears between them, this times confronted) kings, ed miracles, and much dramatic and theatrical, and fiery, death-escaping quipped with a “double d a longer prophetic run, any miracles. stand fully that the same ophets is available to you and received a “double a fresh filling of the Holy on to be used like never ungry world. 30 years, 20,where mbasis. s written his wife hters and

After serving as a senior pastor for 30 years, Todd moved to Athens, Georgia in 2020, where he continues to minister on an interim basis. power that fueled these two great prophets is available t as well. Just as Elisha asked for and received a “d portion” of Elijah’s spirit, ask God for a fresh filling of the Spirit. Then, put yourself in a position to be used like before in this spiritually thirsty and hungry world.

In addition to 14 books, Todd has written countless articles and blogs. He and his wife Charlene have two married daughters and three grandchildren.

Double Portion Double Portion The Life and Times of Elijah and Elisha

The Life and Times of Elijah and Elisha

Todd Gaddis

Todd Gaddis

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© 2024 Copyright Todd Gaddis, Athens, GA

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system , without permission in writing from the publisher.

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All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE ® , Copyright © 1960, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995, 2020 by the Lockman Foundation.

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Special thanks goes out to the following: Printing- Graphic Media Solutions, Villa Rica, GA Editors- Eddy Oliver, Charlotte Tolbert Cover Design- David Dennis

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Author can be reached at jtoddgaddis@gmail.com

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Table of Contents

1. Someone Just Like Us...............................................1 2.Thriving in a Crisis...................................................7 3. “Your son is alive!’...................................................13 4.The Road to Revival. ................................................19 5. Defeating Depression...............................................25 6. Answering God’s Call. ..............................................31 7.The 10th Commandment...........................................39 8. Like Father, Like Son................................................45 9.Up in a Whirlwind....................................................51 10. Restoration..........................................................57 11. “Get out of here, baldy”. ..........................................63 12. Ditch Digging.......................................................69 13.When little becomes much. ......................................75 14. Characteristics of a Christian Woman...........................81 15. Compare and Contrast............................................89 16.Two Miraculous Meals.............................................95 17.Wash and be Cleansed. ............................................101 18. Ill-gotten gain.......................................................107 19. “The iron did swim”................................................113 20. “Open our eyes, Lord”.............................................121 21. Finish Strong........................................................129

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1 Someone Just Like Us

“Elijah was a man with a nature like ours” (James 5:17).

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A s I begin this book, the World Baseball Classic in Miami just concluded, with Japan defeating team U.S.A. 3-2 to claim the title.An unlikely moment came early in the tournament. played at 5:00 AM EST, when Czech pitcher Ondrej Satoria struck out Japan’s Shohei Ohtani on three pitches, the final strike a 72 mph changeup. That may not sound so remarkable, until you consider that the 5’ 9”, 168 lb. Satoria is an electrician by trade who has never played in the Minor Leagues. On the other hand, Los Angeles Angels super star Ohtani is in position to earn $65 million this year alone. A blue collar guy grinding out a living in a workaday world strikes out arguably the best player in the world. Most of us will soon forget what Satoria will be talking about the rest of his life. He is just an ordinary guy who made memories on the world stage. Delving into these chapters, we’re going to learn a mon-

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umental amount about an unlikely hero, Elijah, who made an indelible mark on time and eternity nearly 3000 years ago. As we dissect our opening text (1 Kings 17: 1-7), observe first that Eli jah, whose name means “Jehovah is my God,” was normal– some one just like us, “a man with a nature like ours” (James 5:17). J.B Phillips renders this, “a man as human as we are,” which means he was just your average Joe, a run-of-the--mill young man born and raised in the mountains of Gilead, east of the Jordan river. He is called the Tishbite because of his hometown of Tishbe, meaning “a converter,” which certainly describes his storied life and ministry. Clearly, a host of God’s choice servants experienced unassuming upbringings. David, the youngest, seemed the least likely of Jesse’s sons to become Israel’s next king. Most of the disciples were uneducat ed, small-town men known more for the calluses on their hands than their standing in the community. And what about Jesus, born in a stable, placed in a manger and raised in a wide spot in the road?Yet, as God in the flesh, He would go on to become the central figure in all of time and eternity. As the Bible says, “God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong, and the base things of the world and the despised things God has chosen, the things that are not, so that He may nullify the things that are, so that no man may boast before God” (1 Corinthians 1:27-29). Billy Graham was just a normal kid who grew up on a dairy farm outside Charlotte, N.C. Never earning more than a bache lor’s degree, he went on to preach to hundreds of millions in more than 185 countries and territories, helping over 3 million souls to find salvation–a perfect example of God using ordinary people in extraordinary ways. As Danniebell Hall proclaims in her song, “Just ordinary people, God uses ordinary people, He chooses people just

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like me and you who are willing to do as He commands.” Hall’s song describes Elijah perfectly. Not only was he ordi nary, he was available, willing to do as the Lord commanded. Once directed to hide in the Kerith Ravine, “he did what the Lord had told him” (1 Kings 17:5). Most of God’s servants in the Bible responded swiftly to His call. Once the Lord gave directions and pronounced blessings, “ Abram went forth” (Genesis 12:4).When the Lord asked whom He would dispatch to serve among His rebellious, disobedient people, Isaiah answered, “Here am I. Send me” (Isaiah 6:8). Granted, some weren’t so quick to sign on. Moses offered up a series of questions and excuses before agreeing to go. Jonah ran in the opposite direction, ending up in the belly of a big fish before getting rerouted to his assigned destination. Jesus fed 5000 people with only two fish and five loaves of bread, with 12 baskets full of food left over (a miracle which appears in all four Gospels). And to think, it all started when an unknown lad packing a small lunch made himself available. One of my favorite biographies is A Chance to Die by Elis abeth Elliot.This classic work carefully details the amazing life and legacy of missionary Amy Carmichael, who served 53 years in India without a furlough. Among countless other ministries, this native of Ireland founded the Dohnavur Fellowship, a refuge for orphaned, at risk, and unwanted children. It all started when God touched the heart of an available servant. Perhaps you’re wrestling with a call from God (more on this in chapter 6).Yet you or others around you aren’t sure you’re up for the task. Remember, He’s far more interested in our availability than ability. Warning His disciples of obstacles before sending them out, Jesus said, “When they arrest you and hand you over, do not worry beforehand about what you are to say, but say whatever is given you in that

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hour, for it is not you who speak, but it is the Holy Spirit” (Mark 13:11). Blessings abound when the Holy Spirit works through us, rather than instead of us or in spite of us. In addition to normal and available, see finally that Elijah was influential, both before God and among people. His influence be fore God sprang from his prayers.The Bible says, “he prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the earth for three years and six months, then he prayed again, and the sky poured rain and the earth produced its fruit” (James 5:17,18). Moses comes to mind when considering faithful servants who influenced God through prayer.When he was atop Mt. Sinai receiv ing the Law, the Israelites grew impatient, fashioning and worship ping a golden calf. God’s anger burned to such a point that He was ready to destroy these wayward people. Moses then entreated the Lord, recalling His previous promises and asking Him to reconsid er. “So the Lord changed His mind about the harm which He said He would do to His people” (Exodus 32:14). Satan would like us to think that such an opportunity is reserved for the “saints” of the world, yet nothing could be further from the truth. Prayer is both a potent privilege and weighty weap on available to all believers. Certainly there’s nothing we talk about more, yet do less of than prayer, despite promises like this one from the Lord to Jeremiah. “Call to Me and I will answer you, and I will tell you great and mighty things, which you do not know” (Jeremiah 33:3) . Six centuries later, Jesus preached in the Sermon on the Mount, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you” (Matthew 7:7). It was once said, “If you depend on organization, you get what organization can do; if you depend on money, you get what money can do; if you depend on education, you get what educa-

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tion can do; if you depend on promotion, you get what promotion can do; if you depend on prayer, you get what God can do.”Taking it a step further, JohnWesley stated, “God does nothing except in response to believing prayer.” Elijah, as a voice before God, exemplifies the above.Yet, note that he was an influencer among people as well. I heard him de scribed recently as a superhero of his day.That fits, considering the miracles he performed, evil he confronted and lives he affected. The apostle Paul, who penned a large portion of the New Testament, comes to mind as a significant influencer in his day, as well as throughout history. He boldly challenged the church at Corinth, “Be imitators of me” (1 Corinthians 11:1), a statement you won’t find believers making very often. Most are not confident enough in their faith to serve as role models. Many don’t want to draw attention to themselves or feel it depicts arrogance. And yet, now, more than ever, strong Christian voices and platforms are needed. If we don’t stand up and make a difference, someone else will. Influencers, most of them carnal and amoral, are at work; especially among Gen Z and Generation Alpha.This in fluence is spreading even more rapidly in this age of social media. Should you be among those who feel afraid or inadequate expressing your faith, note the other half of Paul’s statement just mentioned, “Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ” (1 Corin thians 11:1, emphasis added). Summoning and sending His disci ples on mission, Jesus warned them about facing interrogations and beatings at the hand of authorities. “But when they hand you over, do not worry about how or what you are to say; for it will be given you in that hour what you are to say. For it is not you who speak, but it is the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you” (Matthew 10:20). Mainly, it wasn’t special training or unique ability that led Elijah to accomplish what you’re about to read, but rather the

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Spirit of God that rested upon him. And now that Jesus has died on the Cross, raised from the dead, and ascended to the right hand of the Father, we have that same Spirit, not just upon us but within us as well. You’re no doubt familiar with Al Capone, arguably the most notorious gangster in American history. But have you heard of Frank Loesch? During the prohibition years, Capone ruled Chi cago with an iron first and loaded gun. Local and state police, as well as the FBI, were afraid to oppose him.Yet Loesch, an unas suming Christian layman, without government support, formed the Chicago Crime Commission, eventually putting Capone away. He risked his life and those of his family and friends, living out his faith and accomplishing what others weren’t able to do. Likewise, Elijah, a person just like us, represented God, risking his life, combating evil and achieving unexplainable results; due in part to the fact that he was available and influential.What’s keeping you from doing the same?

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2 Thriving in a Crisis “Behold, I have commanded a widow there to provide for you” (1 Kings 17:9). ******** O nce upon a time there was a man in the Dallas-Fort Worth airport waiting on a flight to Chicago.With time on his hands, he decided to weigh himself on one of those newfangled scales you see in airport and truck stop restrooms. After depositing a quarter in the slot, he received the fol lowing information card. Your name is Sam Smith, you are 5 feet, 11 ½ inches tall, weigh 182 pounds, and are booked on the 5:00 American Airlines flight to Chicago O’Hare. Stunned, he tried it again, with the same result. He kept depositing quarters, each time receiving the same message. He was so intrigued by this time that he decided he would try to fool the machine. He went into the restroom, changed clothes, and put on a disguise. Depositing his last quarter, he re ceived a card with these words: Your name is still Sam Smith, you are 5 feet, 11 ½ inches tall, you still weigh 182 pounds and you just missed your 5:00 flight to Chicago.

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Moving ahead in the account of the life of Elijah, we discover that he faced a crisis far worse than a missed flight. Due to a lack of rain, the water supply dried up.The ravens that had supplied bread and meat disappeared, leaving him hungry and thirsty. Maybe you have plenty to eat and drink, yet you still face a crisis. If not, one may be lurking.They tend to do that, you know. When such a situation occurs, apply the following three principles, taken from the central text for this chapter (1 Kings 17: 7-17). Draw strength from previous periods of solitude and perceived inactivity. Note the little phrase that begins this section, “some time later” (1 Kings 17:7).That sounds like just a few days based on the pace in our world today.Yet, given the context and interpretation, it was no doubt an extended period of time. As one commentator writes, “In the history before us, the expression,‘after a while’ denotes at least a whole year; for so long does Elijah appear to have continued in the wilderness.” 1 With that in mind, consider the number of occasions that God kept His servants in the wilderness. After killing an Egyptian, Moses stayed 40 years in the Midian desert to escape from Phar aoh.The Israelites spent another 40 years there before entering the promised land. Paul lived for three years in the Arabian desert be tween the time he was converted and launched into his missionary work. Jesus Himself spent 40 days in the wilderness, fasting before entering public ministry.Why would God arrange matters in such a way? The Israelites received these words, “You shall remember all the way in which the LORD your has led you in the wilderness these forty years, that he might humble you, testing you, to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep His commandments or not” (Deuteronomy 8:2). As this verse confirms, one reason God arranges periods of extended isolation is for the purpose of testing. Such times expose

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our true loyalties. Backing a cause becomes much easier when ex citement is building and the “camera is rolling.”Yet what about the occasions when things go silent? God uses these wilderness experiences to cleanse us as well. Moses provides a prime example.As a younger man, he behaved impulsively. Forty years of desert seclusion helped “squeeze the Egypt” out, maturing him to the point he was ready to lead his people out of bondage. These times also provide preparation. It’s been suggested that the apostle Paul spent his time in Arabia reviewing the law and prophets, focusing this time on their pointing to Jesus.Whatever the case, who can deny that separation from the world often fur nishes the best classroom? “That all sounds nice,” one might say, “but my schedule would never allow for such extended isolation,” which is where solitude comes in. I think we grossly underestimate the amount of solitude that key Biblical characters engaged in through the course of their ministries. David is a prime example. As a shepherd, he spent a great deal of his younger years alone, tending sheep. Even as king, it would not be unusual to find him hanging out in a cave rather than sitting on the throne. No doubt, he benefited greatly from such times as he faced constant crises in leadership. As we consider the key principles for thriving in a crisis, next: Expect help from unexpected sources. Rather than send Elijah to a wealthy merchant with a cupboard full of food for help, God directed him to a poor widow–a poor Gentile widow at that.This brings Rahab, another Gentile, to mind.When two spies represent ing Joshua needed protection and subsequent help escaping danger in Jericho, this Gentile prostitute came through. Her appearance in the genealogy of Jesus adds to the amazement (Matthew 1:5).

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When Haman, chief minister of Persian King Ahasuerus, hatched a plan to annihilate the Jews, Queen Esther intervened to save them.What’s amazing is that Esther was a Jew herself, from the tribe of Benjamin, orphaned and raised by her cous in Mordecai. Only God could have orchestrated such a divine chain of events in which she replaced the deposed QueenVashti and rose to such a position of influence (Esther 4:13,14). The disciples, most of whom were fishermen lacking formal education, took on the task of delivering the Gospel to the world. When a traveler found himself robbed and left for dead on the side of the road in one of Jesus’ parables, it was a hated Samaritan who stopped to help.The Jewish priest and Levite were either too busy or afraid of getting involved. And remember the available young lad who provided the lunch for 5000.Who knew food would come from such an unexpected source? Above all, who would have ever thought the Savior of the world would grow up the son of a carpen ter in the out-of-the-way town of Nazareth. If you’re tired of just surviving rather than thriving, particu larly in a crisis, consider help from unexpected places. Finally: Rely on and respond to the promises of God. Once the brook dried up, God said, “Go at once to Zarephath in the region of Sidon and stay there. I have directed a widow there to supply you with food” (1 Kings 17:9). Carefully note Elijah’s response, “So he went” (1 Kings 17:10). Shortly thereafter, when the poor widow received direc tion from the prophet to return home to bake and bring bread to him, “she went away and did as Elijah had told her” (1 Kings 17:15). Once again, as depicted in chapter one, we see evidence of swift obedience. Such action is vital, especially during troubling times. Observe, as well, that Elijah prefaced his words by reassuring the woman, “Don’t be afraid” (1 Kings 17:13). Sources claim that some form of these words occur 365 times in Scripture, one for each day of the year.

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Speaking to Abram, the Lord said, “Do not fear . . . I am a shield to you;Your reward shall be very great” (Genesis 15:1). Addressing Moses concerning the enemies the Israelites would face, the Lord said, “Do not fear them, for the Lord your God is the one fighting for you” (Deuteronomy 3:22).When Joshua faced a similar situation, the Lord spoke, saying, “Do not be afraid because of them, for tomorrow at this time I will deliver all of them slain before Israel” Renowned advice columnist Ann Landers reportedly re ceived ten thousand letters per month.When asked about the most common problem in her readers’ lives, she answered, “The one problem above all others seems to be fear. People are afraid of losing their health, their wealth, and their loved ones. People are afraid of life itself.” 2 This isn’t surprising, considering the constant occurrence of crime, chaos and crises going on around us. During times like these, we must focus on Paul’s words more than ever, “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind” (2Timothy 1:7 KJV). Facing her fears, the poor widow went home to bake bread for herself, her son, and Elijah. And as promised, “The jar of flour was not used up and the jug of oil did not run dry, in keeping with the word of the Lord” (1 Kings 17:16). Just as the raven provided food previously, the widow supplied all their needs presently. Prior to this, David wrote, “I have been young and now I am old, Yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken or his descendents begging bread” (Psalm 37:25). Paul penned, “And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19). These are just a few of over 3000 promises in the Bible. For example, Jesus said, “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-lad en, and I will give you rest.Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR

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YOUR SOULS” (Matthew 11:28,29). The Lord assured the exiled Jews, “For I know the plans I have for you . . . plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11).To the fearful, Solomon records, “Every word of God is tested; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him” (Proverbs 30:5). Concerning salvation, Paul wrote, “If you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved” (Romans 10:9).The wonderful truth is that these and countless other prom ises in the Word are just as applicable now as the day they were made. The story is told about a destitute widow whose daughter was extremely ill and in need of fresh fruit. Unfortunately, it was winter and the little fruit available was very expensive. One day walking the streets of the city, the woman arrived outside the royal palace.There, she was able to see the royal greenhouse, where huge clusters of grapes hung on the vine. As this beleaguered mother longingly gazed upon the succulent fruit, the princess walked up and handed her a basketful of grapes.When the poor widow dug out a few copper coins and offered to pay, the princess replied, “Madam, these grapes are not for sale. My father is a king and he’s much too rich to sell, and besides, you are much too poor to buy. You can have these grapes for free or not at all.” And so it is with the King of Kings. His blessings are un limited and they are free. God is especially sensitive to us during our times of crises. We must simply draw from lessons learned in the wilderness, anticipate help from unexpected sources, and rely upon the promises and resources of God.

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3 “ Your son is alive! ”

“Lord my God, let this boy’s life return to him!” (1 Kings 17:21).

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W hen an unchurched teenager returned home from attending service with a friend, he was asked by his dad what he had learned. “Well, the pastor talked about the Jews getting chased to the Red Sea by the Egyptians.The Jews quickly built a bridge and got over the water just before the Egyp tians showed up.When Pharaoh’s army tried to cross the bridge, the Jews blew it up and all the Egyptian soldiers drowned,” replied the son. “You mean the pastor actually told you that?” questioned the dad. “No, not exactly,” said the boy, “but the way he told it you’d never believe it.” 1 We’re only a few pages into this book and already we’ve experienced a few such occurrences, miracles, and unexplainable happenings that only God could orchestrate.And now, as we move along in our Elijah/Elisha account (1 Kings 17:18-24), another miracle takes place. This saga begins with a tragic death. According to Scripture,

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“Some time later the son of the woman who owned the house became ill. He grew worse and worse, and finally stopped breathing” (1 Kings 17:17). Gladness turned to sadness when this poor widow and child, who had been supernaturally fed for an extended period of time, suf fered an unwelcome and unexpected death. There’s nothing quite as grievous in life as the death of a child.The intense grief involved has a leveling effect on all demo graphic, economic and ethnic barriers. As the saying goes, “a parent should never have to bury a child.” Over three decades, I’ve pastored several families and served along ministers who have experienced the death of a child. I’m sure a day doesn’t pass without thoughts of these dear ones. And though they never get over it, most have experienced the peace of the Lord, knowing they will see them again one day.As for their remaining days on earth, they are able to minister to and provide comfort for others going through the same experience. Considering such occurrences in the Bible, David comes to mind. He had it all when it came to worldly possessions and position.Yet, he lost the child born from his adulterous relations with Bathsheba just a few days after birth. Some time later, his rebellious son Absalom was killed. “O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom!Would I had died instead of you, O Absalom, my son, my son!” cried David when he heard the news (2 Samuel 18:33). No doubt, most parents, including the widow of Zarephath, would voice the same words. In her case, a tragic death was followed by intense prayer. Why would I address prayer again when we discussed it in the opening chapter? Because it was in Elijah’s DNA. Prayer wasn’t something He did, but rather who he was. As we examine this particular incident, note that Elijah’s supplication began with isolation. Learning of the boy’s death, the

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prophet “Carried him to the upper room where he was staying, and laid him on his bed” (1 Kings 17:19). When the situation allows, we should seek a secluded spot in which to pray. Such an added element of privacy only enhances the atmosphere in which to communicate with God.Take Daniel for example. Despite a sure death sentence, he refused to bow before King Darius, going to his roof chamber and kneeling before the one true God instead.The Lord honored Daniel’s loyalty by protecting him in the lions’ den. In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, “When you pray, go into your inner room, close your door and pray to your Father who is in secret, and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you” (Matthew 6:6). Practicing what He preached, Jesus often with drew to out-of-the-way places to commune with His heavenly Father. See as well that Elijah’s prayer was characterized by earnest expression. He didn’t just speak, He “cried out to the Lord,‘Lord my God, let this boy’s life return to him’” (1 Kings 17:21 emphasis added). Suffering centuries of bondage at the hands of the Egyptians, the Israelites cried out to God for help (Exodus 2:23). On the shores of the Red Sea, with Pharaoh’s army bearing down on them, they again cried out to the Lord” (Exodus 14:10). Later, when the people grew stubborn and restless, “Moses cried out to the Lord, saying,‘What shall I do with these people? A little more and they will stone me’” (Exodus 17:4). While offering up a sacrifice on behalf of the house of Israel, Samuel cried out to the Lord (1 Samuel 7:9). Jonah cried out to God from the belly of the big fish (Jonah 2:2).The Psalms contain multiple instances of those who cried out to God. Again referencing David, “I cry aloud with my voice to the Lord; I make sup plication with my voice to the Lord” (Psalm 142:1).

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When Jesus passed through Jericho en route to Jerusalem, blind Bartimaeus “began to cry out and say,‘Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!’” (Mark 10:47).When told by the crowd to quiet down, “he kept crying out all the more” (Mark 10:48). Just days after that, Jesus cried out from the Cross with a loud voice, “MY GOD, MY GOD,WHY HAVEYOU FORSAKEN ME?” (Matthew 27:46). I’m afraid our prayers have become too rote and predicta ble.What keeps us from expressing ourselves like the saints of old . . . pride, fear, apathy? Blessings await those willing to voice their prayers uninhibited. “The righteous cry, and the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles” (Psalm 34:17). In regard to his prayer, observe Elijah’s position. According to the Bible, “He stretched himself out on the boy’s life three times (1 Kings 17:21).Although this seems somewhat invasive, it indicates just how determined Elijah was for God to restore life to this lad. It was as if the warmth and aliveness of his living body could be absorbed by osmosis into the lifeless body of the child. Posture is indeed a factor in prayer. Recall that Daniel knelt in prayer before the Lord. During the corporate prayer time of the church where my wife and I attend, our pastor asks those able to come out of their seats and kneel.While some might call this a show, I see it as a way to express dependance and humility before our Father in heaven. George Mueller (1805-1898) was an English evangelist known most for his concern and care for thousands of orphans. After speaking to a group of seminary students, Mueller was asked to explain the secret to his “success” in ministry. He answered by pulling his chair back and then proceeded to bend his 80 year old legs to kneel in prayer. “This is the secret,” he replied. Following his death, someone discovered two ridges worn into the wooded floor beside his bed where he had prayed so of-

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ten. And while such posture doesn’t guarantee answers to prayer, it certainly indicates a high level of submission and surrender. In the case of our central text, a time of intense prayer re sulted in restored life. As Scripture indicates, “The Lord heard Elijah’s cry, and the boy’s life returned to him, and he lived” (1 Kings 17:22).The prophet then picked the boy up, carried him down to his mother and said, “Look, your son is alive!” (1 Kings 17:23). People rising from the dead, the miracle of miracles, happens at various times throughout Scripture–twice during the time of Elisha (2 Kings 4:18-37, 13:20-21), four times in Jesus’ ministry (Luke 7:11-17, 8:40-56, John 11, Matthew 27:50-53), and once each for Peter and Paul (Acts 9:36-43, 20:7-12). I term these re suscitations because those involved no doubt eventually died. The raising of Jesus is the first true resurrection, meaning He’s the first to receive a glorified body and remains alive to live forever. Notably, the Bible says that everyone who has ever lived, believers and non-believers, will be resurrected as well, “Those who did the good deeds to a resurrection of life and those who committed the evil deeds to a resurrection of judgment (John 5:28, 29). Believers will appear before the Judgment Seat of Christ at His Second Coming (2 Corinthians 5:10), after which we will remain in the presence of Jesus forever. Non-believers will face Christ at the GreatWhiteThrone Judgment (Revelation 20:11-15), after which they will experience the second death and entrance into the lake of fire.This would be a great time to pause to make sure you are saved and that your name is written in the Lamb’s book of life. If you have such assurance, share that good news with others. By the sound of her response, the poor widow experienced an understanding of her own upon discovering her son was alive, responding to Elijah, “Now I know that you are a man of God, and that

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the word of the Lord from your mouth is the truth” (1 Kings 17:24). Certainly the death of this woman’s son was not the result of sin in her life. It presented her with the opportunity to grow deep er in her newfound faith. Also, the miracle reveals that the power responsible was not only the God of the Jews but of everyone who believes. Maybe the trial and tribulation you face doesn’t rise to the level of the death of a child. Nevertheless, it has slammed you to the floor. Don’t be afraid to cry out to Him.Answers may not come as quickly as you want. Nevertheless, He hears, cares, and will respond. Kierkegaard, the Danish philosopher, told about a goose who was wounded and landed in a barnyard with a bunch of chickens. He ate with the chickens and played with the chickens, thinking after a while that he was a chicken. One day, a flight of migrating geese flew over the barnyard, sounding out that familiar honk. Ki erkegaard said, “Something stirred within the breast of this goose. Something called him to the skies. He began to flap the wings he hadn’t used, and he rose a few feet into the air.Then he stopped, and he settled back into the mud of the barnyard. He heard the cry but settled for less.” Don’t settle for less. Experience the abundant life Christ offers, both in this life and the one to come.

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4 The Road to Revival

“The Lord-He is God! The Lord-He is God!” (1 Kings 18-39).

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D rilling a little deeper into the life of Elijah, let’s examine the context of his times. “Fifty-eight years had passed since the kingdom was ripped apart in 931 B.C. At that time the glorious united kingdom, which had lasted for well nigh a full century with all the splendor of the reigns of David and Solomon, was divided into two southern and ten northern tribes. Subsequently things had not gone well, espe cially for the northern ten tribes.” 1 Poor leadership was the main reason the northern tribes suffered so much. By Elijah’s time, King Ahab, more evil than his predecessors, was wreaking havoc. His wicked wife Jezebel only added fuel to the fire. It was a time of spiritual drought, with idolatry, wickedness, and tolerance prevailing. Add to that literal drought, which certain ly made matters worse. Remember that no rain had fallen for over three years.Those with a Biblical worldview know that God does his best work in such times.

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In fact, these conditions ushered in one of the great revivals recorded in Scripture. It wasa time of renewal triggered by con frontation, the first being an encounter between the prophet and Ahab.When accused by the evil king of being a troubler of Israel, Elijah boldly responds, “I have not troubled Israel, but you and your father’s house have, because you have forsaken the commandments of the Lord and have followed the Baals” (1 Kings 18:18). Elijah didn’t stop there, but instead proceeded to take his argument before the people. “How long will you hesitate between two opinions?” he asked. “If the Lord is God, follow Him; but if Baal, follow him” (1 Kings 18:21). This is a question that humankind has been called on to answer throughout history, some at the expense of their lives. Polycarp Bishop of Smyrna (69-155 AD), believed to be a disciple of the apostle John, was sentenced to burn to death by the Roman proconsul when he refused to renounce Christianity and burn incense to the Roman emperor. He was taken down and stabbed to death when flames failed to consume his body. Such atrocities still occur in parts of the world where pro fessing Christians are in grave danger. It may seem unlikely in our society of cultural Chrisitanity, yet society is heading more and more that way.As the end times approach, the “squishy middle” of one foot in the kingdom and one foot in the world will disappear. Now is time to overcome the apathy, set aside the risks, and declare for the Lord. As Joshua said, “If it is disagreeable in your sight to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves today whom you will serve: whether the gods which your fathers served which were beyond the River, or the gods of Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15, emphasis added). Elijah not only confronted Ahab and the people, he arranged for a demonstration as well: a showdown between the good guys

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and the bad guys, the prophets of Baal and the prophets of God. An altar would be built and sacrifices selected. “The God who an swers by fire-he is God” (1 Kings 18:24). Soon thereafter, we see evidence of Baal’s futility.The false prophets screamed out, danced around the altar, and even slashed themselves with swords, all to no avail. “Midday passed, and they continued their frantic prophesying until the time for the evening sacri fice. But there was no response, no one paid attention” (1 Kings 18:29). Three millenia later, the story is still the same. Countless masses worshiping at the altar of money, fame, and pleasure are coming up empty handed, unable to find answers for the questions life throws at them. Thankfully, once Elijah took center stage, the situation changed. Baal’s futility became overshadowed by God’s ability, clearly spelled out through the following: Preparation - The violent, wicked Baal debacle had taken its toll on the altar. Before God could do His work, it would have to be rebuilt. So Elijah took 12 stones, one for each tribe in Israel, and placed them there.The prophet then “dug a trench around it large enough to hold two seahs of seed. He arranged the wood, cut the bull into pieces and laid it on the wood” (1 Kings 18:32, 33). He then arranged for four large jars of water to be poured on the offering and wood. Only then, was it time for step number two: Prayer - Saints from the past had a question for those entering into a time of supplication.Are you on “praying ground?” -meaning: Is your attitude, heart, and spirit in a condition to where you can go before the Lord? David asked, “Who may ascend into the hill of the Lord? And who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted up his soul to falsehood and has not sworn deceit fully” (Psalm 24:3,4).This doesn’t mean that we must be perfect, but rather pointed in that direction, surrendering and submitting to the One who is.

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This remodeling project that took place in Elijah’s day sym bolizes a spiritual preparedness that must take place to pave the way for the work of God in our lives. Once completed, the proph et cried out, “Let it be known today that you are God in Israel and that I am your servant and have done all these things at your command.Answer me, Lord, so these people will know that you, Lord, are God and that you are turning their hearts back again” (1 Kings 18:36,37). According to E.M. Bounds, prominent CivilWar era author and minister, “What the church needs today is not more machin ery, or better, not new organizations or more novel methods, but men whom the Holy Ghost can use -men of prayer, men mighty in prayer.The Holy Ghost does not flow through methods, but through men. He does not come on machinery, but on men. He does not anoint plans, but men, men of prayer.” God provides a perfect demonstration of this when Elijah’s prayer paves the way for His: Power - “The fire of the Lord fell and burned up the sacrifice, the wood, the stones and the soil, and also licked up the water in the trench” (1 Kings 18:38). Such action points to another time of revival in Scripture.Ten days after Jesus ascended to the right hand of the Father, God demonstrated His presence at Pentecost in a mighty rushing wind and tongues of fire, after which 3000 souls were saved (Acts 2:2,3,41) Fire in Scripture often depicts the presence of God and power of the Holy Spirit. No road to revival is complete without the Third Member of the Trinity working in, through, and among God’s people. Renowned missionary Lottie Moon, who spent nearly 40 years serving in China, once wrote to friends back in the States, “I feel my weakness and inability to accomplish anything without the aid of the Holy Spirit. Make special prayer for the outpouring of the

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Holy Spirit . . . , that I may be clothed with power from on high by the indwelling of the Spirit in my heart.” 2 Once the sacrifice was accepted and demonstration complet ed, a glorious confession took place among the people. “When they saw this, they fell prostrate and cried,‘The Lord-he is God! The” Lord -he is God!’” (1 Kings 18:39). Based on this verse, note the following three key actions on the part of the people.They . . . Saw- hearing or reading about something is one thing, but witnessing it with our own eyes is another matter altogether. It was when Isaiah saw the Lord that he was driven to confess his sins, receive a cleansing and volunteer for service (Isaiah 6:1-8). Oh that we could witness such displays of the Lord in our world today. Fell- prostrate, like Elijah when the child was raised from the dead. Once again, posture in prayer becomes an issue.Though not a guarantee of results, such an exercise gives indication that we are pouring our entire selves into the process, humbled and surren dered before God. Cried- “The Lord- he is God! The Lord-he is God!”What more significant words under the sun could ever be voiced?The people had played footsie with Baal long enough. Revival was un derway.This is a mass acknowledgement of the OneTrue God! The Psalmist writes, “Know that the Lord Himself is God” (Psalm 100:3).When Jesus asked Peter, “Who do you say that I am? Peter an swered and said to Him,‘You are the Christ’” (Mark 8:29). When Thomas saw Jesus’ nail scarred hands and pierced side, He exclaimed, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28). Countless souls have failed to make that admission down through the centuries. Billions alive today refuse.Yet, there’s coming a point at the end of time when “EVERY KNEEWILL BOW, of those who are in heaven, and on the earth and under the earth, and that

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every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Philippians 2:10-11). Tragically, it will be too late for a large portion of those to have their names written in the Lamb’s book of life.Yet, if you’re reading this, it’s not too late for you. Acknowledge your faith in Christ, while there’s still time.The people of Elijah’s day made their confession, which helped pave the way for a deluge of long awaited participation. Following the great confession, Elijah rounded up the false prophets of Baal and had them slaughtered. After another encoun ter with Ahab, the prophet climbed to the top of Mt. Carmel and then, you guessed it, PRAYED! At first, a cloud as small as a man’s hand rose up out of the sea. Some time later, after more faithful intercession, “The sky grew black with clouds, the wind rose, a heavy rain started falling . . .” (1 Kings 18:45). A devastating drought that had gone on for three years and six months had finally ended. As I write these words, California is on the road to recovery from a three year drought.While the Golden State is certainly not out of the woods, winter snow melt and spring rains are filling up rivers and reservoirs. Spiritually speaking, that’s the kind of wel come news we need to hear -a fresh pouring out of the Holy Spirit leading our needy nation and world to repentance and renewal. “Will You notYourself revive us again,” records the Psalmist, “That your people may rejoice inYou?” (Psalm 85:6). Of course, there’s no need to wait on the masses to make such a move individually. By confronting our issues, demonstrat ing our faith, and confessing our sins, we put ourselves in an ideal position to receive monumental blessings God yearns to deliver.

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5 Defeating Depression

“I have had enough Lord . . .Take my life” (1 Kings 19:6)

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E ven if you’re fortunate enough not to suffer from depression, chances are that you know someone who does, since experts estimate that as many as 40 million do. 1 In fact, depression is the number two condition behind pain that sends patients to see their primary care physician. The cause of this physiological/psychological malady remains a source of debate. Many professionals in the field blame external societal issues such as breakdown in the family, increased materi alism, media overload and a prodigious preoccupation with “self.” Others classify depression as a disease. Or more specifically, a chemical imbalance. And though research reveals that those born silence 1945 are ten times more likely to suffer from depression than those born before, 2 this “darkness of the soul” has plagued mankind for mil lennia, operating under other names and often going undiagnosed. I am well aware that this is typically a physiological condition that

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requires medical attention. Not being a physician, I can’t speak from that standpoint. As a pastor and believer with a back ground in theology, however, I can approach depression from a biblical/spiritual perspective. That said, let’s move along in our account of Elijah, focusing specifically on 1 Kings 19:1-18. Remember from the last chapter that he experienced a major high by way of a significant victory over the prophets of Baal.Yet, just a short time later, the proph et sank to such a low that he wanted to die.Why such a drastic reversal? Because physically, spiritually, and emotionally drained, he succumbed to depression’s spell. If you find yourself even remotely close to such a mental pattern, strive to avoid the traps that ensnare those in such a state. The fear trap- Word of Elijah’s victory on Mount Carmel, especially the slain prophets of Baal, prompted this message from Jezebel: “So may the gods do to me even more, if I do not make your life as the life of one of them by tomorrow at this time” (1 Kings 19:2).Though called and guided by God, Elijah was afraid.Who wouldn’t be? According to Edmund Burke, “No passion so effectively robs the mind of its powers of acting and reasoning as fear.” “Fear, if al lowed to reign,” said John M.Wilson, “would reduce us all to trem bling shadows of men, for whom only death could bring release.” Elijah personifies that. The enemy trap- Elijah reigned victorious over the false prophets by keeping his focus on God. However, when threats from Jezebel ensued, his thoughts shifted to her. Early in my ministry, I received an anonymous letter, severe ly criticizing my work at the church where I served at the time. I had heard of others who received such notes, but this was a first for me.And even though the incident was isolated and unwarranted, it threw me for a loop. I was obsessed with the letter for a while, but

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never found out who sent it. I eventually put it behind me, having learned a valuable lesson: don’t let detractors determine your out look, especially if they choose to go unnamed. The comparison trap- We gain further insight into Elijah’s plight through his statement, “I am not better than my fathers” (1 Kings 19:4). Rather than center his attention on God and the present, he fretfully measured himself against people from his past, further aggravating his deteriorating state of mind. Despite Peter’s denial (Mark 14:66-72), Jesus reinstated him during a post resurrection appearance beside the Sea of Galilee. Once Christ revealed to this repentant disciple his future fate, Peter turned toward John and inquired, “Lord, and what about this man?” to which Jesus replied, “If I want him to remain until I come, what is that to you?You follow me!” (John 21:22). Comparing ourselves to others often creates trouble.There’s always going to be someone richer, younger, smarter, thinner, pret tier, and with a lot more friends than you have. The blame trap – Elijah increased his misery by condemning himself for the failures of his people. Likewise, many people slip into a depressed state through self blame. I heard about a Sunday School teacher who despaired when a faithful member of her class stopped attending. For years, she grap pled with the possibility that it was her fault, discovering years later it was the lady’s husband that kept her from attending. I’ve blamed myself and been blamed by others when people quit attending our church, only to discover later it had nothing to do with me. The pity trap – Elijah threw a pity party, at which he was the guest of honor, the only guest in fact, until the Angel of the Lord arrived. Justifying himself, the prophet said, “I have been very zealous for the Lord, the God of hosts; for the sons of Israel have forsakenYour cov enant, torn downYour altars and killedYour prophets with the sword.And

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I alone am left” (1 Kings 19:10). Elijah was actually among 7,000 prophets who remained (1 Kings 19:18), but who’s counting when you’re soaking in a bath of self-pity? Make sure to avoid these traps if you sense discouragement and depression on your doorstep.And since the enemy works cleverly to fill a void, follow up by administering these remedies. Take care of your physical needs. Elijah’s emotional struggles stemmed in part from physical deficiencies. Realizing the proph et’s state of hunger and fatigue, God twice sent an angel to urge Elijah to eat. God has designed us in such a way that there is an insepara ble connection between body and soul, the physical and spiritual. And even though the bodies we now possess are temporal, we must still do our best to take care of them. As Paul writes, “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own?” (1 Corinthians 6:19). I’m convinced that many mental/emotional struggles begin at the physical level. Careless eating habits and lack of sleep during our younger years take their toll as we age. A physical therapist told me recently that “motion is lotion.” I used to run, but now I walk. Not only am I improving blood flow and burning calories, but also generating endorphin release in the blood. Eat right and get moving. Although it may not build a fire wall against depression, it will certainly help. Share your burdens with God. Elijah certainly did, lamenting to the Lord that he had gone through enough and was at his wit’s end. A key takeaway I’ve learned from decades of Bible study/sermon preparation, one that I’m trying hard to get across in this book, is that God’s servants in the Bible were not afraid to bare their souls to Him in prayer.

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