1 Kings 19:1-10
Who would recognise the shining witness of the preceding chapter in this downcast man, fleeing from the threats of a woman? God does not give us this account so that we should judge His dear servant, but for our instruction. The most remarkable man fails miserably when he is left to his own resources (read Proverbs 29:25). Elijah is left with nothing except despair. Yet see how God takes care of him. Precious thought: even when we may become depressed or irritated, His goodness towards us never ceases.
Elijah’s legal outlook has taken him to Horeb (part of the Sinai range), the place where the Law had been given. "What doest thou here, Elijah?" the LORD asks him. Serious question for the one who had abandoned the people! But the prophet’s reply only betrays his false position. He is there to accuse! Moses on the other hand had interceded for the people in this same place (Exodus 32:11), whereas Elijah "maketh intercession to God against Israel", as is sadly related in Romans 11:2.
Let us remember this well: to accuse (which can take the form of telling tales), is to do Satan’s work (Revelation 12:10). To intercede is, on the contrary, to act like the Lord Jesus (Romans 8:34).