It is important to be committed and hard-working, most importantly when it comes to the service of God. One can be consumed by the zeal of God's work or house. One thing is that it must be carried out faithfully and in the fear of the Lord.

This was the case with Prophet Elijah in his days during the reign of King Ahab with his wicked wife, Jezebel.

As much as the Prophet tried to bring the king and people of Israel back to God of their fathers, they went more astray. This provoked the anger of God in Prophet Elijah to lock the door of heaven and kept the keys for rain for good three years.
He said, "As the Lord God of Israel lives, before whom I stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these years, except at my word." 1 Kings 17:1.(New King James Version).

Those words were established for good three years. He did not speak to bring rain until the Lord commanded him to do so.

Although during the draught years, he also was a victim of his own zeal. He forgot himself when he was about to lock the door of heaven for rain. Or maybe he was confident that his God will provide an avenue to meet his own needs which He did.

As soon as he made the declaration of no rain, he was forced to leave his comfort zone (home) to enjoy God's provision for him. The instructions came to him, "Get away from here and turn Eastward, and hide by the Brook Cherith, which flows into the Jordan.
And it will be that you shall drink from the brook, and I have commanded the ravens to feed you there." 1 Kings 17:2.
The man of God obeyed and he enjoyed the comfort from God. As a victim of his own zeal, he became a sojourner at the bank of a brook. He was hiding there because it was possible for the king and his wife to sought his life which indeed they did.

At a point in time, the brook was dry but the Lord made another provision for His faithful and zealous servant. He instructed him to dwell with a widow in Zarephath, verses 8-10. He also obey to enjoy the Lord and His provision.

Although, prophet Elijah became a victim of his own zeal, but he never failed to enjoy God's provision and support because he also remained faithful to the Lord. Let it be reiterated here that stopping rain from falling was not an instruction from the Lord but God honoured the words of His fathful servants.

Beloved, do you fear the Lord and zealous for Him? It is still important to obey His instructions in everything so that you will not becime a victim of your own zeal. However, whenever you become one, cleave to the Lord and obey His instructions because He will still guide and guard you in every situation you find yourself. Remain blessed as you await the imminent coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.

SALVATION MESSAGE: In case you just "stumble"on this piece and you do not know your Creator or you have been so far deceived with one religion or the other, I am happy to inform you that TODAY is the appointed time to be reconciled with your Maker.
*Accept the truth that you are a sinner and cannot help yourself.
*Confess all your sins to the Lord Jesus Christ and ask Him to forgive you, He will surely do.
*Ask the Lord to occupy and control your heart forever.
*Request Him to fill you with His Holy Spirit to with you forever.
* Obtain a copy of the Holy Bible for daily reading and application for great benefits.
*Join an assembly of God's children where the Scripture is held in high esteem for fellowship and growth.
May the Lord help you to walk with Him for the rest of your life in the mighty name of Jesus Christ.

The Author is the set man of CTFM(WORLD OUTREACH)and Presiding Pastor of Christ Restland Gospel Church.He is a Poet and author of many books. Visit his blogsites www.4thlink.wordpress.com and www.peacelink.wordpress.com for more quality contents.