Give Me Strength – August 15, 2021

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 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 19:3,4

Give Me Strength

Burnout, depression, anxiety, panic attacks are common problems in our day. Maybe you’re dealing with some of these issues right now. Life was going along just fine. Then the bottom fell out. Family problems, issues at work, the hectic pace of everyday life—it finally catches up with us. We’re overwhelmed. We feel like failures. We’re tired, discouraged, and we want to quit.

This is how the prophet Elijah felt. Even though with God’s help, he had just defeated the prophets of Baal, he was on the run. Wicked Queen Jezebel wanted revenge. She vowed to take his life. Elijah ran in fear. He had hoped his victory over the prophets of Baal would turn things around. Instead, he was on the run. He was tired, discouraged, and wanted to die.

God knew Elijah needed help. He sent an angel to give Elijah food and water and sent Elijah on his way. There was still work that needed to be done.

When you think you can’t go on, remember that you’re not alone. The Lord knows what you need. The same God who sent his Son to save you from your sin is there to help you with the troubles of life. He knows how you feel. He knows the problems you face. He will help you. You have his Word on it.

Prayer:
Dear Lord, when life gets hard and I want to quit, give me strength as you did Elijah. Let me never lose sight of your love nor forget your promise to help. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.