Many people, especially the prophets and the forerunners, have been feeling such intense pressure and warfare on every side. Like Elijah, they have wanted to run in a cave and hide!

In the story of 1 Kings 18 and 19, Elijah proved that the God of Israel was the one true God and the gods of Baal were false because the God of Israel was able to comsume the sacrifice with fire from heaven, while the prophets of Baal were not able to do anything to get their sacrifice to burn. Once the people could see who the true God of Israel was, Elijah had the prophets of Baal killed. King Ahab reported all this to Jezebel, causing her to become furious! Jezebel sought to intimidate Elijah by threatening him with his very life, causing him to retreat into a cave and fall into a depression. So it has been with you!

Dear friends, please know thet the pressure and opposition that you have been feeling is not because you have done something wrong, but like Elijah, you are doing something right! The enemy is terrified at the ground you are taking!

The Lord is saying,“Come out of that cave!” You have no reason to be afraid, for there are more for you than there are against you. (2 Kings 6:16).

“Arise, mighty men and women of valor: this is your time to shine! For I, Myself will silence the naysayers and the very ones who have wrongly accused and mocked you. They will watch you feast on My goodness, as I will prepare a table before you in the very presence of your enemies (Psalms 23:5).” Take courage, dear ones! You are going forward, and things are coming to a head, but in a good way!

“Like David, you have been prepared on the back side of the wilderness. You have learned to slay the lion and the bear. Indeed, your hands have been trained for war and your fingers for battle (Psalms 144:1)! I have made your mouth like a sharpened sword. In the shadow of my hand, I have hidden you. I have made you into a polished arrow and concealed you in my quiver (Isaiah 49:2).

“You have been in a time of hiding and preparation, but now, I am drawing you out! You are My chosen vessel, in whom I take great delight! Fear not! Rather, be bold and courageous, for I am bringing you to the forefront for such a time as this!”

Arise, shine, for your light has come and my glory has risen on you, says the Lord of hosts (Isaiah 60:1).