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Holy Fire!
Tim Savage10But Elijah replied to the captain, “If I am a man of God, let fire come down from heaven and destroy you and your fifty men!” Then fire fell from heaven and killed them all. 2 Kings 1
Wow! If I only had that power! Say or do something to me that I don’t like and you’re toast! Literally!
The reason this verse leapt out at me this morning is that I’ve been in a season of weariness, which has sometimes led to rash decisions. If not for Christ, I would have flamed a lot of people and changed my destiny and my destination. It’s a great fantasy though!
I am reminded that I must not make decisions or respond critically to people when I’m tired, no matter how justified I might feel. Recently, I’ve quickly (too quickly) read emails and messages that have either offended or infuriated me and I spend the better part of a day upset, then, after some rest, I re-read the same message only to find that I didn’t fully understand it. In fact, as I was driving in to work today I consciously avoided calling someone who I took offense with, instead, I wanted to do the “holy” thing and listen to today’s scripture reading. When the app on my phone failed I got even more upset because I had no choice but to make that phone call. Well, long story short, God knew that I needed to talk with that person because, in my weariness, I had read more in to that situation than was there and the phone call cleared the air immediately. I wanted to rain down holy fire and consume that person, but thankfully God had other plans.
Lord, thank You for saving me from myself. I must continue to apply the live-changing and soul-saving lessons You provide through my daily walk with You. I need to rest more, so that I do not walk so close to the edge of life. It’s a lot more fun to walk further from the edge. But, I must also never make permanent decision, based on temporary situations, like weariness, pain or offense.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for Your mercy and grace on my life, for which I do not deserve. Grant me wisdom and discernment as I strive to lead Your people well.
In Jesus name,
Amen
