‘After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper.’ (1 Kings 19:12)
We learn more about God’s help for Elijah.
This week we are looking at a time when Elijah, a prophet, falls into deep despair and depression. After the high of seeing God’s incredible power at work but then the low of Queen Jezebel threatening his life causing him to flee, it is fair to say he has hit rock bottom, spiritually, mentally, emotionally and physically. He tells God that he has had enough, not just of the situation but of life, and lays down to sleep under a broom tree.
The beauty of this story isn’t in Elijah’s sadness, though, but in the restoration, transformation and encouragement that God provides for Elijah. God helps Elijah through food, water, shelter, sleep, purpose and legacy. God is able to do all this for Elijah because he is a present God, who knows Elijah and the plans he has for him and comes alongside him in his difficulties. By the end of the passage Elijah is ready to continue on his journey and we see God work through him in more incredible ways.
From this passage we too can take hope in a God who cares for us and seek to help other in the ways God helped Elijah, with food, water, shelter, sleep, purpose and legacy all whilst being a present comfort to those around us. As we go ahead into this next week, let’s be looking out for where God has blessed us and ways in which we can bless others, and let’s call out in prayer, just as Elijah did, to tell God how we are struggling, and keep an ear open to hear if he gently whispers.
St. Luke's Church Ramsgate 