1 Kings 18:38 – “Then fire fell from the LORD fell from the sky.”

As I read, prayed, and mused on the Word of God today, Elijah and the prophets of Baal came to my attention.  Then, the Gospel of Luke completed the musing.

On Mt. Carmel, the confrontation between Elijah and Jezebel’s spiritual army offers powerful insight and encouragement.   In 1 Kings 18:38, we read, “Then the fire of the LORD fell…”  The fire is important, but don’t miss the “then.”  What led up to the Fire Falling!   What brought the Fire?

• The 1st thing Elijah did was challenge the people about their commitment.
• The 2nd was to rebuild the altar of God. 

(Not just any altar, but the altar of sacrifice and commitment to God.  Give God a place in the heart.) 

• The 3rd was to saturate the altar and sacrifice with water (prayer).
•  The 4th was a recommitment and review of the Covenant.
• The 5th was a simple prayer – Then The Fire Fell!  
• The 6th was when he removed evil.

(If we want the FIRE, we must restore the altar!)

In Luke 17, we have a powerful message on restoring the altar and having the Fire!   You will say, “What?” I contend that is the message.   Jesus taught about forgiveness! I suggest that forgiveness is rebuilding the altar.

The disciples were stunned by the message of constant perpetual forgiveness from us to others (the same forgiveness we get from God).  Then in verses 7-10, what seems unrelated is germane.   The responsibility is tied to forgiveness and rebuilding the altar.

It is a message that we dare not think we are super saints if we practice forgiveness.  No, it is simply doing what is expected and required.  It is normal Christianity.  It is impossible for the flesh, but possible through God.

We want The Fire, but we fail to rebuild the altar, soak it with prayer, and then follow through. Fire! Where is The Fire?

LORD gives us Your Holy Fire!