Biblical Context:
The account of Elijah fleeing from Jezebel is found in 1 Kings 19:1-18. This event occurs shortly after the dramatic confrontation on Mount Carmel, where Elijah, the prophet of Yahweh, challenges the prophets of Baal and Asherah. Through a miraculous display of divine power, God answers Elijah's prayer by sending fire from heaven to consume the sacrifice, leading to the slaughter of the false prophets (1 Kings 18:20-40).

Narrative Summary:
Following this victory, King Ahab reports to Queen Jezebel all that Elijah had done, including the execution of the prophets of Baal. Jezebel, a staunch supporter of Baal worship, reacts with fury and sends a messenger to Elijah, threatening his life: "May the gods deal with me, be it ever so severely, if by this time tomorrow I do not make your life like the lives of those you killed" (1 Kings 19:2).

In response to this threat, Elijah, gripped by fear, flees for his life. He travels to Beersheba in Judah, leaving his servant there, and continues a day's journey into the wilderness. Overwhelmed and despondent, Elijah sits under a broom tree and prays for death, saying, "I have had enough, LORD. Take my life, for I am no better than my fathers" (1 Kings 19:4).

Divine Intervention:
In his moment of despair, God provides for Elijah's physical needs. An angel of the Lord appears to him, providing bread baked over hot coals and a jar of water, urging him to eat and drink. This sustenance is provided twice, strengthening Elijah for a forty-day journey to Horeb, the mountain of God (1 Kings 19:5-8).

Encounter with God:
At Horeb, Elijah takes refuge in a cave. The word of the Lord comes to him, asking, "What are you doing here, Elijah?" (1 Kings 19:9). Elijah expresses his zeal for the Lord and his isolation, lamenting that the Israelites have forsaken God's covenant, torn down His altars, and killed His prophets. He believes he is the only one left, and now they seek his life as well (1 Kings 19:10).

God instructs Elijah to stand on the mountain in His presence. A powerful wind, an earthquake, and a fire pass by, but the Lord is not in these phenomena. Instead, God speaks to Elijah in a gentle whisper, reaffirming His presence and purpose (1 Kings 19:11-12).

Divine Commission:
In this encounter, God reassures Elijah and provides him with a new mission. He is to anoint Hazael as king over Aram, Jehu as king over Israel, and Elisha as his prophetic successor. God also reveals that He has preserved a remnant of seven thousand in Israel who have not bowed to Baal (1 Kings 19:15-18).

Theological Significance:
Elijah's flight from Jezebel highlights the human frailty of even the most faithful servants of God. Despite his previous triumph, Elijah experiences fear and discouragement, reminding believers of the spiritual battles faced in a fallen world. God's response to Elijah's despair demonstrates His compassion and provision, offering rest, sustenance, and renewed purpose. The gentle whisper signifies God's intimate communication with His people, contrasting with the dramatic displays of power. Elijah's commissioning underscores God's sovereignty and the continuation of His divine plan, even when His servants feel isolated and overwhelmed.