According to the author of the book of 1 Kings, God reminds us that even when it seems like everyone has turned away from Him, there are still many people who stay true and do not worship fake gods. God has a special group of friends who remain faithful to Him no matter what.
1 Kings 19:18: Yet I have left [me] seven thousand in Israel, all the knees which have not bowed unto Baal, and every mouth which hath not kissed him. [I have...: or, I will leave]
This verse repeats the assurance of a remnant, confirming 1 Kings 19:18 rather than contradicting it.
Romans 11:4: But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have reserved to myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to [the image of] Baal.