The return of Ahab to Jezreel was at night, in a blinding rainstorm, over treacherous mountain roads. The way being difficult to see, the desert prophet ran before the king, guiding the royal chariot in safety to the gates of Jezreel. In this gracious act Elijah showed that he had no ill feelings toward the king, and that he was willing to perform any service, however humble or inconvenient, for the benefit of his lord.