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The Bible agrees that the raven is an unclean bird. It is the first bird mentioned by name in the Bible: Noah first sent a raven out of the ark (Genesis 8:7) from among the several species that were there. However, we read that it went to and fro until the water was dried up and did not return to the ark in fulfillment of its obligation.
But how wonderful it is to know that God used these unclean, ill-omened birds to carry food and a message on faithfulness and obedience to Elijah (I Kings 17:4) while he was looking for a spectacular demonstration such as fire, earthquake and thunder.
Furthermore, Elijah thought that he was the sole defender of truth, as altars were being erected to Baal every day, enslaving the whole nation of Israel. He was not aware of 7000 true believers who had not bent their knees to worship Baal. Again, God confronted Elijah, not through powerful things, but through a soft whisper.
God can use any insignificant thing to convey His powerful message. What matters is an inclining ear and a receptive heart and mind.
Similarly, a Church Partnership Evangelism team recently flew here to India with spiritual food to strengthen and awaken the Indian leadership to its mission to evangelize. They reminded us that no single individual fights against the enemy, but that a host of faithful people still exist. We need to attune our ears to the small whisper of God, who works within us through His spirit.
This one is by M.C. Emmanuel, a retired government official in Hyderabad, India.
Return to the M.B. Herald Vol. 35, No. 8
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