The LORD said, “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the LORD, for the LORD is about to pass by.” Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave. (1Kings 19:11-13 NIV)
The New Year has begun and we are almost to the end of the first week. Perhaps we are writing a list of resolutions or re-writing them. A few may even be reviewing and reducing the list. As we follow this time-worn tradition, we tick them off like purchases on a shopping list.
Sometimes the list is long. Lose weight. Read 2 books a month. Read the Bible from Genesis through Revelation. Go to bed early and get up earlier. Exercise everyday. Implement a regular prayer/fasting schedule. Spend quality time with the wife. Write a book this year. Then we feel so good about ourselves because we have resolutions.
But would it be wisdom to have a long list or a short one? What about one resolution that was definitely doable and would empower us to grow? Just a small change that would start us toward greater transformation. Awaken ten minutes earlier every morning to begin the day with the Lord. You see, one realistic commitment is better than a long list of promises that overwhelm us and gets abandoned.
In today’s passage, I don’t think Elijah had a long list of wishes to present to God, but he probably wanted more than a calm whisper from the Almighty. He had been used to God doing mighty things and showing himself in great ways (i.e., no rain for three years; fire from heaven, etc). But now he is in a cave on the mountain of God. Perhaps we should go to the mountain of God before we make our resolution list. Maybe we need to hear the calm whisper of God before creating a to-do list for 2012.
Just as it is the little foxes that destroy the vineyards (Sings of Solomon 2:15), it is also the small steps — small achievements — that empower us to grow into what God wants us to become. If we will be faithful in the small things, God will reveal himself in the big things (Matthew 25:21). Attitude and zeal may need to be surrendered to humility, because grandiose goals don’t count unless they are achieved.
Dear Father, thank you for your calm whisper to us. Empower us with an humble spirit and attitude so that we may stay in the cave with you until you empower us to proceed. This pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Courageously listen for God’s whisper,