The only reference to the still small voice comes from 1 kings 19:11,12. After Elijah’s victory over the prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18:20-40; 19:12), King Ahab’s wife, Jezebel, sought to kill Elijah. So, the prophet fled to the wilderness to escape her threats. The Lord comforted him and sent him to Horeb. There, God revealed Himself to His servant:
“And, behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the Lord; but the Lord was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the Lord was not in the earthquake: and after the earthquake a fire; but the Lord was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice” (1 Kings 19:11,12).
God did not choose to reveal Himself to Elijah in mighty manifestations of supernatural power, but by “a still small voice.” He wanted to teach His servant that it is not always the mighty works that makes the greatest demonstration that is most successful in accomplishing His purpose. While Elijah waited for the manifestations of the Lord, a tempest rolled, the lightnings flashed, and a devouring fire swept by; but God was not in all this.
Then, there came a still, small voice, and Elijah covered his head while he stood in the presence of God. His soul was quieted, his spirit softened and calmed. He now knew that a quiet trust, a firm dependence on the Lord, would give him a present help in time of trouble.
Likewise, it is not always the most powerful presentation of God’s truth that convicts and converts the soul. Not by persuasive arguments or logic are men’s hearts touched, but by the sweet influences of the Holy Spirit, which falls gently and transforms the soul and develops a new character. God speaks gently to His believers in this day through His inspired Word that has the strength to change the heart.
Check out our Bible Answers page for more information on a variety of topics.
In His service,
BibleAsk Team
