“He said, I have been very jealous for the Lord God of hosts: for the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away” (1 Kings 19:10).

There is something very pathetic in this verse. Elijah really thought he was alone. He did not know of one other man in all the land who was loyal to God. This made it all the harder for him.

Companionship strengthens us. It is comparatively easy in battle for one to march and fight in the ranks, with others all around him; but to move out alone, old soldiers say, is a sore test of courage. It is easy to be good, faithful, and loyal in duty, and diligent in Christian service, when one has companionship. But it tests one’s life to have to stand alone as the only Christian in the family, the workshop, or the store. But many have to stand just in this way. They are really the only one who is in their place to stand for God. If they fail, God’s work there will suffer greatly.

But we see also the value of a single life. For years, Elijah was the only one who confessed the Lord and was faithful to Him. Yet even though he was utterly alone, and not knowing of any others who were even secretly true, he yet stood firm, and bravely maintained the honor of Jehovah in the face of a whole nation. As we read his life’s history through to the end, we see the outcome of his faithfulness. He alone brought about a great reformation. We sometimes find ourselves alone – the only one to witness for Jesus in the place where we stand. If we are simply standing alone for Christ without faltering, we shall eventually see the triumph of that for which we stand.

I’d love to hear your thoughts and comments on this article! Feel free to leave your reflections and ask your questions below.

God bless you and your family, this day and always.

All for our King’s glory,
Christian

photo by Daniel  |  Lightstock.com

This post is another installment of Miller’s Monday Musings, a weekly series that is published every Monday on my website. The series features selected writings that have been adapted from the works of James Russell Miller (1840-1912), a much-beloved Christian author and pastor who is well-remembered for his practical thoughts on Christian home and family life. Learn more about this weekly series by clicking here.