Thursday 14 February 2008
- Bible Book:
- 1 Kings
"But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a solitary broom tree. He asked that he night die: 'It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life, for I am no better than my ancestors'. Then he lay down under the broom tree and fell asleep. Suddenly an angel touched him and said to him, 'Get up and eat'. He looked, and there at his head was a cake baked on hot stones, and a jar of water. He ate and drank, and lay down again". (v. 4-6)
Background
Elijah had just made a stand of faith. The god who Elijahworshipped was seen as the one true god. But in the light ofopposition Elijah ran away. He had done all he could, yet in theface of opposition the victory he thought he had earned was takenaway from him. Such rapid changes in his circumstances causedElijah to feel depressed. "It's too much" was his complaint beforeGod.
There are many in our churches who have worked hard and done allwithin their power to show that there is only one, true god yetthey face continued difficulty and simply feel it is all too much.There is some comfort to be found from others who have shared inthe same experience. Elijah was given food for the journey andencouraged to keep seeking the presence of God.
By receiving food for the journey Elijah came through the time ofdepression and found the ability to seek out God once more. Thefood was simple, the impact delayed, but the outcome was sure.
To Ponder
What are those situations which drain you orleave you feeling drained and empty?
What is 'food for your journey'? What allows youto hear God speak once more?
How can you preserve the certainty of your faithwhen you experience opposition?
How can you support those in the Church who feel'it's all too much'?