Taken Alive

The story of Elijah is far more than just a story of a spiritually strong prophet of God who defied the wicked schemes and threats of Ahab and Jezebel, but a story of a life lived full of purpose in serving God. 

His highs were mountain-top experiences, defying the prophets of Baal, calling fire down from Heaven, and saving a young fatherless boy that had died. But his lows were just as extreme… devastating and all consuming! He ran from the edict of death from Jezebel, hiding in the mountains, drinking from the brook, wondering if each day was his last. He despaired of life and wanted to die. 

God graciously sent some crows to bring him bread and meat, and sent an angel to encourage him. We are not told how he encouraged him, but if we had to guess, I imagine he probably reiterated to him all the many times God was faithful and to continue to trust in the goodness and purposes of God. 

As time passed, Elijah passed the mantle of his calling to Elisha, and God called him Home, not after death, but alive in a chariot of fire. 

He is a picture for us of a final generation that “will not see death,” but will be taken alive in the rapture to Heaven. But you can be sure, that our highs will be just as high as our lows as we serve in these last days. We will even despair of life at times and need encouragers to bring our perspective back. But friends, when our work is done, Glory awaits! Just like Elisha saw the chariot take Elijah Home, so too, will the world see Him come in the clouds to receive His own unto Himself, “and every eye will see Him…” (Revelation 1:7). 

Be encouraged! Your story ends in complete victory, and you will likely not see death. Your Chariot is coming!

(Devotional by Cheryl Hall-Laos)