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God Still Moves Series
Contributed by Diana Tyler on May 27, 2023 (message contributor)
Summary: God still moves despite the evil of others
In 1 Kings, we have read about the different kings of Israel. It starts with King David's later years and ultimate death. Solomon takes the throne and as the chapters continue, we learn that not every king followed God. Israel had a major problem with idolatry. Idolatry is when you put something or someone ahead of God. It's a very easy sin to fall into so be careful.
Some kings were bad. Others were worse. King Ahab was the absolute worst king Israel ever had because not only did he do evil in the sight of God, but his wife Jezebel brought the false god Baal into the presence of Israel. 1 Kings 16:29-32. When it comes to selecting a spouse, you must be extremely careful because being married to the wrong person can destroy your life...or end it. Never be unequally yoked with anyone because it can cause major problems to your walk with God. 2 Corinthians 6:14 That's what happened to King Solomon. He had 700 wives 300 concubines and they turned his heart away from God since these women worshipped other gods. As a result, Solomon lost his kingdom. 1 King 11:1-13
Many kings since Solomon did evil in the sight of the Lord. Only King Asa did right in God's sight. 1 Kings 15:11-24.
With Ahab and Jezebel ruling, it was chaos. Jezebel had the true prophets of God killed so she could have the false prophets of Baal. Obadiah the prophet hid 100 prophets in 2 caves to keep them safe. 1 Kings 18:4
One day, God spoke to a man named Elijah and raised him up as a prophet. The first thing he did was tell King Ahab that there would be no dew or rain for the next few years. After that, he was fed by ravens and later went to Zarephath to stay with a widow in the village. The widow had only a little flour and a little olive oil, but thanks to a prophecy Elijah told her, she was able to feed him, herself, and her son. As a result, there was always enough flour and olive oil to keep everyone feed during the drought. 1 Kings 17:1-16
It's amazing how God can take the small and multiply it into abundance. Jesus would do the same thing centuries later with the 5 loaves and 2 fish. Matthew 14:13-21, Luke 9:10-17, John 6:1-14. What may seem like little in our eyes could be used greatly by God.