We sometimes read the Bible as if we were cramming for an exam, only to discover, when we glance at the test paper, that we’ve missed key information—something I am all too familiar with!
As we read the Bible, we need to bear in mind what has already happened and what is yet to come, while focusing on the narrative before us. The biblical storylines we read are for your benefit and encouragement, so be sure to reflect on them and ask questions—in so doing, you will find gold.
Jezebel’s Palace
I love the story of the God-fearing administrator in Ahab’s palace, but for the sake of the narrative, let’s call it Jezebel’s Palace. Ahab, the seventh king of Israel, is searching for Elijah, the prophet who had dramatically foretold that there would be no rain for some time. Three dry and exhausting years later, Elijah’s prophecy is still holding firm. It was the real thing. In sending Elijah, God had said it, endorsed it, and ratified it—but now, with famine ravaging the entire land, Ahab and his beloved wife have had enough. For some reason, Jezebel seems to think that killing the prophets of God is the solution, as though the death of the prophets would bring the rain.
In the midst of all this, Ahab, considering logistics and resources, realises that they must tread carefully in their search for Elijah, as they also need grass and water for the mules. Things had become very, very dire.
God had already initiated the process of sending rain, but before that happened, He had been at work in other ways, and what He was doing deserves our attention.
Enter Obadiah
Obadiah, despite working in the palace, witnessing the outbursts of anger, and hearing Jezebel’s hostile and furious rants against the true prophets of God, had the selfless courage to gather 100 prophets and hide them in two caves, feeding them with bread and water. Where he got this from was probably Ahab’s meagre royal supplies. In stark contrast, Jezebel felt no conflict and was at peace with the 450 prophets of Baal and the 400 prophets of Asherah, who ate at her table—while the nation suffered great lack.
Three Awesome Things
Meanwhile, for the prophets hiding in the caves, three things quickly became apparent. These are important, not only to them but also to you, because they affect you. You face daily challenges, perhaps not as life-threatening as Jezebel’s pursuit, but the influence of Jezebel, in its various forms in today’s world, must never be tolerated. Even when it comes from friends and disguises itself with the ‘appearance’ of grace, we must be cautious. True grace always allows room for choice, without requiring you to justify yourself. Grace stirs within us the desire to love God, to serve Him, and to walk in righteousness, pursuing an ever-deepening intimacy with Christ.
Providence
The key factor to consider is Providence. Romans 8 comes to mind. God works all things according to His will, yet He deals with us graciously, with love, care, and affection. Providence can be understood as the hand of God in the glove of human events, weaving together both the ordinary and the extraordinary for His divine purpose; the enemy has many schemes, but at the right time—His time—the Lord nullifies many of them, using what remains to bring wonderful outcomes for us.
Protection
There was also protection. They were safe, just as you are. Safe in God’s strong hand. You are certain to face difficulties at times, but the end result is your salvation, and your eternity is secure.
Provision
Provision was another comfort for the prophets as they sat in the caves, aware of the queen’s wicked intentions. It wasn’t much, but they didn’t need much. We are not told how long the prophets were hidden, but at least for them, the bread arrived at the hand of one of God’s servants, rather than from the beak of a raven—definitely a healthier option. They were also provided with the most precious resource in Israel at that time—not gold or diamonds, money or clothing—but water. Ahab could barely find water for his donkeys, but the prophets had water.
Something Else to Consider
Before I tell you something awesome, here’s something else to think about.
Did Obadiah place the prophets in two separate caves because he couldn’t find one large enough for all of them, or was it a wise decision? What if Jezebel discovered his cunning plan? At least this way, some of his precious ‘cargo’ of prophets might be spared. During those years of famine, what was going on in the caves as they waited for the outcome? Were they calling on God, praying for protection, provision, and a swift intervention? Were they praying for Jezebel’s heart to turn from its wicked path? We don’t know. One thing is certain—it would have been very, very interesting—but God chose not to reveal those details to us. There are some things that God does that we just don’t need to know about, unless you are involved.
Dreams, Visions, and Revelation
These 100 prophets knew Elijah. They were prophets themselves (the scriptures affirm this); they understood what it meant to hear God clearly and distinctly. Some of them saw visions, while others heard God’s audible voice. They were a formidable group, learning from one another, inspiring each other. Even in their short time together, the revelation of the Spirit as they interpreted dreams, events, words, and circumstances would have been remarkable. These were genuine, full-on prophets, but where did they go? What did they do next? What did they say or do when they knew it was safe to leave? We don’t know.
Perhaps, as Elijah and Elisha walked through the final moments of Elijah’s ministry, the prophets who gathered on the banks were these very prophets. Their utterances and discernment were spot on. They knew.
But here’s my final consideration for you, and it’s awesome because, again, it could be about you.
Prophets
One hundred prophets in two caves. Elijah’s ministry coming to an end. God is going to pass on the mantle of Elijah’s ministry, but to whom? Which prophet out of the 100 will it be? The oldest? The boldest? The most influential or the least of the least? In God’s wisdom, He chooses the one He wants—a man ploughing a field with twelve oxen.
God’s choice can often astonish us, but it sends a clear message. God can use you for something you never dreamed possible, or for something you never considered because you felt no interest or had no time for it. God has not finished with you—yet He has barely begun!
An update!
Since the 1970s, the church in the UK has experienced a growing hunger for the things of the Spirit. Over the years, many have been encouraged to step out in faith, exploring the gifts of healing, signs and wonders, tongues, interpretation, and prophecy. Yet, as we enter a new century, we find ourselves still waiting for a full and unmistakable outpouring of the Spirit—a revival that touches hearts and transforms lives.
Everywhere I go, I meet people who share this deep longing. In prayer and worship meetings, prophets often gather, waiting with expectant hearts for the smallest sign—the distant cloud, no bigger than a man’s hand—that will signal the coming rain of God’s presence. I believe many already see glimpses of that cloud, faint but real. Now, the call is to be patient and steadfast, because the rain is coming.
It’s only a matter of time.
Never, never, never give up trusting the Lord. He is always doing unexpected and amazing things.