1Ki 19:3-9 | Clarke | STEP | Verse 3 He arose, and went for his life - He saw it was best to give place to this storm, and go to a place of safety. He probably thought that the miracle at Carmel would have been the means of effecting the conversion of the whole court and of the country, but, finding himself mistaken, he is greatly discouraged. To Beer-sheba - This being at the most southern extremity of the promised land, and under the jurisdiction of the king of Judah, he might suppose himself in a place of safety. Left his servant there - Being alone, he would be the more unlikely to be discovered; besides, he did not wish to risk the life of his servant.

‏ 1 Kings 19:3-9

Verse 3

He arose, and went for his life - He saw it was best to give place to this storm, and go to a place of safety. He probably thought that the miracle at Carmel would have been the means of effecting the conversion of the whole court and of the country, but, finding himself mistaken, he is greatly discouraged.

To Beer-sheba - This being at the most southern extremity of the promised land, and under the jurisdiction of the king of Judah, he might suppose himself in a place of safety.

Left his servant there - Being alone, he would be the more unlikely to be discovered; besides, he did not wish to risk the life of his servant. Verse 4

A day's journey into the wilderness - Probably in his way to Mount Horeb. See 1Kgs 19:8.

Juniper tree - A tree that afforded him a shade from the scorching sun.

It is enough - I have lived long enough! I can do no more good among this people; let me now end my days. Verse 5

As he lay and slept - Excessive anguish of mind frequently induces sleep, as well as great fatigue of body.

An angel touched him - He needed refreshment, and God sent an angel to bring him what was necessary. Verse 6

A cake baken on the coals - All this seems to have been supernaturally provided. Verse 7

The journey is too great for thee - From Beer-sheba to Horeb was about one hundred and fifty miles. Verse 8

Forty days and forty nights - So he fasted just the same time as Moses did at Horeb, and as Christ did in the wilderness. Verse 9

He came thither unto a cave - Conjectured by some to be the same cave in which God put Moses that he might give him a glimpse of his glory. See Exo 33:22.

What doest thou here, Elijah? - Is this a reproach for having fled from the face of Jezebel, through what some call unbelieving fears, that God would abandon him to her rage?