God Is Still Working

“God has not cast away His people whom He foreknew. Or do you not know what the Scripture says of Elijah, how he pleads with God against Israel, saying, “Lord, they have killed Your prophets and torn down Your altars, and I alone am left, and they seek my life”? But what does the divine response say to him? “I have reserved for Myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal.” – Romans 10:2-4

Romans 11:2 says, “God has not cast away His people whom He foreknew.” Paul, inspired by the Spirit, points to Elijah as a living example from Israel’s history. Elijah wasn’t interceding for Israel—he was pleading against them. He had just witnessed one of the greatest displays of God’s power on Mount Carmel, yet now he was hiding in a cave, overwhelmed and exhausted. Jezebel’s threats had pushed him to the edge. He felt alone, abandoned, and convinced that Israel had completely turned its back on God. “I alone am left,” he cried, “and they seek my life.” (Romans 11:3). Elijah’s despair led him to believe that God had failed to keep His promises. But God’s response was gentle and firm: “I have reserved for Myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal.” (Romans 11:4). Elijah wasn’t alone—he just couldn’t see the full picture.

Elijah’s story reminds us that exhaustion can cloud our vision. After intense ministry, spiritual battles, or personal trials, we can feel like we’re the only ones left standing. We might even begin to think that God has stopped working or that His promises have stalled. But just as God told Elijah to rest, eat, and recover, we too need rhythms of restoration. God was still moving in Israel, preserving a remnant, fulfilling His word. Elijah didn’t see it because he was worn down. And sometimes, we don’t see it either—not because God isn’t working, but because we’re too weary to notice. In seasons of discouragement, we must remember that God’s faithfulness isn’t dependent on our feelings. He keeps His promises, even when we’re too tired to believe it.

Paul’s point is clear: God has not cast away His people. Just look at Elijah. Look at Paul himself. Look around. Even in times of great apostasy, God preserves a remnant. You are not the only one. You are not forgotten. And you are not carrying the weight of the world alone. So take heart. Rest when needed. Trust that God is working in ways you cannot yet see. And remember—His promises are true, His people are preserved, and His plan is unfolding. Let your life be a testimony of that truth, just as Paul and Elijah’s lives were. God is still working, even when you feel like He isn’t.

“God has not cast away all Israel. Though many were rejected, yet a remnant was reserved. Elijah thought he was alone, but God had seven thousand faithful ones. So it is often with the church—more are preserved than we know.” — Matthew Henry