“It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life, for I am no better than my fathers.” (1 Kings 19:4)
Elijah had reached a climax in his work as a prophet: after many years, the people of Israel finally made a joint decision to follow the one true God. Elijah’s actions were powerful and fearless. He had 400 idol priests killed. Then he prayed intensely for rain—the sign that God’s judgment had been averted. When the sky darkened with rain clouds, Elijah ran ahead of the king toward his palace in Jezreel. And then… he was completely exhausted.
Right after this climax, Elijah lost all courage. He considered himself the only remaining servant of God. When he received a death threat from Queen Jezebel, he fled into the desert. There he prayed that he might die and fell asleep under a bush. He had gone beyond his limits.
How did God respond to Elijah’s desire to die? He sent an angel who gave Elijah a short and simple command: “Get up and eat.” Strengthened by the food, Elijah walked to Mount Horeb to meet God. There he received correction, encouragement, and a new assignment.
Have you ever been completely exhausted? How did that affect you? If you feel like you can’t go any further, could you (like Elijah) benefit from rest, nourishment, and time with God? Where could you find this?