1 Kings 16:29-34; 1 Kings 17:1-6
Ahab, the son of Omri, whose reign is to occupy us up to the end of the first book of Kings, again goes beyond the sins of the former kings. For the worship of Baal is officially introduced into Israel through his wife, the abominable Jezebel. This is also the point in time when Jericho is rebuilt, which, being a provocation to the LORD, receives the punishment pronounced by Joshua! (Joshua 6:26). Then, in order to speak to the conscience of the king and the people, God raises up a prophet: Elijah! This man feels that a trial is needed first, to bring Israel to a condition to receive the divine Word. Accordingly he prays "earnestly" that it should not rain (James 5:17). Then, certain of the LORD’s answer, he presents himself before Ahab with authority to declare it to him. When we have asked God for something, in faith and according to His will, we should act with the full assurance of its fulfilment. Notice the expression, "The LORD . . . before whom I stand". To stand in reverence before God, in His light, always ready to receive His instructions, this is the attitude of the servant. It was that of Jesus in Psalms 16:8. Then God hides Elijah and cares for him in a miraculous way by the brook Cherith.