Praying Like Jesusნიმუში

Day 19: ASK – Elijah’s Prayer on Mount Carmel

"At the time of sacrifice, the prophet Elijah stepped forward and prayed, 'LORD, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, let it be known today that You are God in Israel and that I am Your servant and have done all these things at Your command.'” – 1 Kings 18:36

Over the next few days, we will focus on Jesus encouraging us to Ask, Seek, and Knock. We will investigate different moments in scripture where we see this illustrated and then put it into practice in our lives. We will start by looking at moments when people asked God for an answer, and He answered immediately.

In 1 Kings 18, Elijah stands alone before the prophets of Baal, calling upon the Lord to prove His power. The nation of Israel had been divided, worshiping idols, and God sent Elijah to call them back to true worship. In a dramatic showdown on Mount Carmel, Elijah prays a simple yet powerful prayer: “LORD, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, let it be known today that You are God in Israel…”

This prayer wasn’t just for Elijah’s benefit; it was meant to turn the people's hearts back to God. Elijah didn’t ask for personal gain or selfish reasons; he prayed that God’s name would be glorified and that the people would know He is the true God. God answered this prayer by sending fire from heaven, consuming the sacrifice, and demonstrating His sovereignty.

Elijah’s prayer exemplifies boldness in asking. It was a prayer rooted in trust and the desire for God’s will to be known. In our prayers, we should ask for God’s name to be glorified and His purposes to be accomplished in the world. Just as Elijah’s prayer was answered with dramatic power, our prayers, too, can be used by God to bring about mighty works that bring people to faith.

Today, reflect on what you’re asking God for. Are your requests aligned with His glory and purpose? Ask boldly, trusting that He can answer in ways that bring faith and transformation to those watching.