Turn To God
Elijah was afraid and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, while he himself went a day’s journey into the desert. He came to a broom tree, 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 19:3-4
Elijah was tired and discouraged. Sure, he’d had victories. But Jezebel had promised to kill him. The constant struggle no doubt weighed on him. Sometimes you just need a day off. A day free from worry and headaches and demands. A day to sleep in and recharge yourself.
That’s basically what Elijah got from God. The next verses tell us that an angel of the LORD woke Elijah and told him to eat and drink because “the journey is too much for you.” God didn’t chastise His servant. God comforted Elijah, He provided him with nourishment and, later, a priceless gift. Because God came to Elijah and spoke with him, encouraged him, gave him advice.
It’s hard sometimes to see God in the darkness that accompanies discouragement and fatigue. It’s difficult to believe that life might ever be better. That you’ll ever be strong enough to handle the never-ending demands. That the criticism and knocks don’t have to define who you are.
Always remember that you are never alone in that dismal place. God never leaves you. He doesn’t berate you or criticize you or call you selfish because you’re too tired to pretend anymore. He comes to you wherever you are and strengthens you.
So when you feel like you can’t face another day and that there will never be a better tomorrow, take it to God. Ask Him to help you and strengthen you and guide you. He will. Every time.
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