Day Thirty-seven = Short and Sweet

O LORD, God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, let it be known this day that you are God in Israel, and that I am your servant, and that I have done all these things at your word. Answer me, O LORD, answer me, that this people may know that you, O LORD, are God, and that you have turned their hearts back. (1 Kings 18:36-37)

Elijah’s prayer was short and sweet. In fact, the prayer was not for him or for God. Elijah already knew that God was going to answer by fire as did God. No, this prayer was for the people standing around watching; waiting to see the (hopeful) celebratory show which might ensue. What a disappointment though; no cutting or slicing, no dancing or chanting as with the prophets of Baal. Elijah’s prayer consisted of just three appeals:

• Let it be known this day that you are God
• That I have done all these things at your word
• That this people may know that you, O Lord, are God

Our worship does not have to be long and drawn out either. But it should through the Spirit:

• Reveal God
• Be done according to His Word.
• Turn the attention of others towards Him and away from you.

An old chorus summarizes best the short and sweet of it:

“I love you Lord, and I lift my voice to worship you. O my soul, Rejoice! Take joy, my King, in what you hear; let it be a sweet, sweet sound in your ear.” (Klein)