None of us had ever experienced what we were about to.
Eight
couples from our church traveled to a cabin in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee,
for a marriage retreat. My wife and I had stayed in several cabins over
the years-some we enjoyed while others were misrepresented by the rental
agency. Not this one.
Our little convoy turned off the main road
and ascended a narrow road until we reached Summit View Lodge-a four
story cabin nestled on the side of a mountain. Everyone wanted to visit
the top level to see the view. For 180 degrees, we saw nothing but
mountain range folded upon mountain range. Our only obstructions were
trees, smog, and low-hanging clouds.
Elijah had a sight problem
as well, but trees, pollution, and clouds had nothing to do with it. He
had defeated hundreds of pagan prophets on a mountaintop contest, but
the wicked queen wasn't pleased with his efforts. A 24-hour death
sentence sent him running. His first stop was a broom tree where he
asked God to take his life. Then he traveled to a cave where once again
depression overcame him. In the midst of his despair, God helped him see
clearly.
Fear, anxiety, and depression kept Elijah from seeing
what God wanted to do in his life-just as clouds and smog kept us from
seeing the totality of our mountain view. Adopting Elijah's
solution-running, is an easy escape point when things aren't going our
way or when I can't see which way they are going at all.
Taking
advantage of the abundant life Jesus offers requires a clear view-even
when circumstances are against me. And this requires several steps which
Elijah eventually took.
First, I must believe God is with me and
is concerned. Elijah's running was unnecessary. God could handle a
wicked queen. Second, I must ask God to help me understand the situation
fogging my sight. God gave understanding to Elijah in the cave. Third, I
must accept my circumstances by faith. I won't always understand what
God is doing or why. Finally, I must release despondency to God.
Discouragement and depression will only further cloud my vision.
Releasing it by faith clears things up.
Regardless of what clouds
your view, God can help you see clearly.
Martin Wiles
Hodges, South Carolina, USA
