Out of nowhere, at one of the most critical times in Israel’s history, an unknown prophet steps onto the world stage and courageously halts a wicked culture in its tracks. Up until 1 Kings 17, Elijah is unknown to the Bible reader. Suddenly, and with no pompous introduction, we read:

"And Elijah the Tishbite, who was of the inhabitants of Gilead, said unto Ahab, 'As the Lord God of Israel lives, before whom I stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these many years, but according to my word.'"
(1 Kings 17:1)

Life often feels like a turbulent sea, doesn't it? We all face storms - whether they're health crises, financial struggles, relationship conflicts, or moments of deep doubt. In these tumultuous times, it's easy to feel like we're drowning, desperately searching for a lifeline. But what if I told you that the key to navigating these storms lies in something you already possess?

The Disciples' Storm: A Lesson for Us All

As a mom, there have been many times over the years when I have felt overwhelmed, overworked, anxious, and downright discouraged. Actually, mothers everywhere share these feelings.

Parenting children is a demanding job. But moms often feel insufficient to the various tasks of rearing children, managing the home, and being the kind of wife they desire to be.  It doesn’t make it any easier that moms often feel underappreciated, unacknowledged, and unseen while trying to fulfill these roles.

In 1 Samuel 4, we see the children of Israel doing the unthinkable, fighting the superior Philistines without God’s help. After a clear defeat, they decide to try again, but this time the Israelites take the Ark of the Covenant with them into battle. They refuse to ask the young prophet, Samuel, what they should do; instead, they lean on their own wisdom and thinking. Not only do they once again face a crushing defeat at the hands of the Philistines, but they also lose the Ark of the Covenant as well.