You Are Not Alone

By Paul Chappell

"And it was so, when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle, and went out, and stood in the entering in of the cave. And, behold, there came a voice unto him, and said, What doest thou here, Elijah? And he said, I have been very jealous for the LORD God of hosts: because the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine altars, and slain they prophets with the sword; and I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away."

1 Kings 19:13-14

The oldest of twelve children, Elizabeth Barrett received a classical education, learning Greek and Latin, and studying writers and poets. A well-received poet in her own right, she is best-remembered for her courtship by and love for another poet, Robert Browning. Barrett’s father did not want any of his children to marry, threatening to disinherit any who did. So Browning and Barrett, who had met only once, carried on their courtship via letters and poems.

Barrett had suffered for a number of years from a lung disease and was generally in poor health. Yet knowing someone loved her strengthened her, and she was well enough to get married the year after their first meeting and move to Italy where she lived for the rest of her life.

There is enormous strength and comfort in the knowledge that we are not alone—that there is someone who loves and cares for us. Isolation, on the other hand, can easily

lead to discouragement and even despair.

When Elijah was running from Jezebel, he left his servant behind and went on alone. This contributed to his feelings of defeat, and he complained to God that he was the only one left who was doing right. God told him, "I have left me seven thousand in Israel" (1 Kings 19:18).

If you are feeling discouraged and lonely in your work for God, remember God’s words to Elijah. Not only is God Himself with you, but you are part of an army of dedicated Christians laboring for the Lord.

Today's Rooted Principle:

God has many faithful servants, and you are not alone in laboring for Him.