Ahab and the people expected that Elijah would, in this solemn assembly, bless the land , and pray for rain; but he had other work to do first. The people must be brought to repent and reform, and then they may look for the removal of the judgment, but not till then. This is the right method. God will first prepare our heart , and then cause his ear to hear , will first turn us to him , and then t...