The Uncomfortable Path to a Miracle

In 1 Kings 17:8-10 I read, “Then the LORD spoke his word to Elijah, ‘Go to Zarephath in Sidon and live there. I have commanded a widow there to take care of you.’ So Elijah went to Zarephath.” (NCV)

There are times when I’m scared to death and vulnerable. I don’t know where I’m going, how long it’s going to take, or what’s going to happen when I get there. So what do I do? I’m reminded that the path to a miracle often goes through uncomfortable territory.

The Bible gives an illustration in 1 Kings 17:8-10: “Then the Lord spoke his word to Elijah, ‘Go to Zarephath in Sidon and live there. I have commanded a widow there to take care of you.’ So Elijah went to Zarephath” (NCV).

God’s instructions meant that Elijah would have to walk more than 100 miles during a drought through dangerous territory. Everyone he met would know who he was, and King Ahab had a price on his head. Elijah’s path was definitely an uncomfortable one.

When Elijah finally made it to Zarephath, he met a poor widow who was going to feed him. But the town still was full of pagan people who wouldn’t hesitate to kill him. How could the widow defend or protect him?

Miracles don’t happen when things are comfortable. Miracles happen when things are uncomfortable.

Elijah didn’t say, “God, there are three things wrong with this plan. One, you’re sending me in the wrong direction. Two, you’re sending me to the wrong location. And three, you’re sending me to the wrong protection.” He just obeyed.

God’s path to a miracle will often take me through uncomfortable territory so that I’ll learn to depend on him. It was true for Elijah and for God’s people throughout the Bible. For instance:

When Moses led the Israelites out of slavery to the Promised Land, they had to go through the Red Sea first.

Before David could slay Goliath, he had to walk onto the battlefield.

God told Jehoshaphat to put the choir before the army, and he’d win the victory. How much faith do you think that took?

Miracles never happen in my comfort zone. When everything is settled in my life, I don’t need a miracle. I only need a miracle when I’m at a low.

Am I at a place where things are a little uncomfortable; financially, emotionally, relationally, or physically? Maybe I’m nervous, unsettled, or insecure. Congratulations. I’m on the path to a miracle!

On my uncomfortable path, follow the example of Elijah. Obey God so I can see his miracle at the end of the road.

In summary, the LORD spoke to Elijah, and told him to go to Zarephath and live there. I have commanded a widow there to take care of you. So Elijah went. There are times when I’m scared to death and vulnerable. I don’t know where I’m going, how long it’s going to take, or what’s going to happen when I get there. What do I do? I’m reminded that the path to a miracle often goes through uncomfortable territory. God’s instructions meant that Elijah would have to walk more than 100 miles during a drought through dangerous territory and there was a price on his head. Elijah’s path was definitely an uncomfortable one. Miracles don’t happen when things are comfortable. Elijah didn’t say, there are things wrong with this plan. He obeyed. God’s path will often take me through uncomfortable territory so that I’ll learn to depend on him. So when things are a little uncomfortable, I’m on the path to a miracle! While I’m on this uncomfortable path, follow the example of Elijah. Obey God so I can see his miracle at the end of the road.

As I reflect on this my path to my future work role is very uncertain. Hope that I held onto for an opportunity I wanted didn’t seem to work out. I also know that I have not been doing all that the Lord wants me to do. I’ve taken a step toward what I believe he wants, but having some concern or doubt about it. I hear God telling me to keep going no matter what, as He will give me only what he knows I can handle. Father, thank you for the reminder that my path may not always be comfortable, but you want me to depend on you. So I ask with the help of the Holy Spirit in my life that I turn to you in my discomfort and distractions. I also ask for help with temptations I’m facing. I ask you for wisdom and guidance for my day, my work, my leadership, my interactions with others and with my future work/job role. These things I pray through your Son Jesus’ name, Amen.