while he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness. He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. “I have had enough, Lord,†he said. “Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.†1 Kings 19:4
Elijah was depressed.
God had used Elijah mightily. Elijah’s prophecy, under God’s direction, had closed the skies. There had been a drought in the land for three whole years. Rains would come again only at Elijah’s word. During the drought, God had so wonderfully provided for Elijah through a raven and a brook. And when the brook dried up, God sent him to a widow in Zarephath.
And then came the spectacular victory on Mount Carmel. Elijah contested the prophets of Baal and Asherah and proved that Yahweh, the Lord God of Israel, was God indeed. God had sent down fire from heaven and consumed a soaking wet sacrifice and a waterlogged altar. The victory was decisive.
And yet, when Jezebel, King Ahab’s evil queen, threatened to kill him, Elijah ran. He was ready to give up everything and simply die. Forgotten were the recent amazing victories. Forgotten was God’s faithfulness experienced in abundance. All forgotten.
But God did not judge or blame him, instead provided Elijah with what he needed for the moment. He gave him food and rest. God did not give up on Elijah. He prepared him for the next phase of his ministry.
God does not give up on us either, nor is he done with us yet. Will you remind yourself to trust God when you feel like just giving up?
Lord, thank you for reminding me that you have not given up on me.
Excerpt from At the Potter’s Wheel – Day by Day
(READING FOR 27 JUNE)
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