July 26

Nevertheless, I have reserved seven thousand in Israel—all whose knees have not bowed to Baal and whose mouths have not kissed him. — 1 Kgs 19:18 BSB

Things weren’t as bad as Elijah thought. He believed he was the only one left, but there were actually seven thousand others scattered throughout the land who were still loyal to God. God’s cause in the world is never hopeless. Where we think we are the only one, He always has others.

Martin Luther had a similar experience. Once, when he was deeply troubled by his own sinfulness, the wickedness of the world, and the dangers facing the church, he came home to find his wife dressed in mourning clothes. Surprised, he asked her who had died.

“Don’t you know?” she replied. “God is dead.”

“How can you say such nonsense?” he asked. “God can’t die!”

She responded, “If that’s true, then why are you acting like it?”

This simple exchange reminded Luther that, despite the troubles he faced, God was still in control, and there was no need for him to be discouraged.