1 Kings 19:9 …And the word of the LORD came to him: “What are you doing here, Elijah?”
After the LORD saw to Elijah’s physical needs, He sought to address his emotional and spiritual needs. He knew Elijah was exhausted, frustrated, afraid. But He also knew that Elijah was aware of God’s purpose, His call for Elijah’s life, and He wanted Elijah to tap back into that purpose, to realize that, regardless of what it felt like, he did not go it alone, his work was not in vein.
1 Kings 19:10 He replied, “I have been very zealous for the LORD God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected Your covenant, torn down Your alters, put Your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me, too.”
It brings me deep comfort to know that even the prophet Elijah struggled with feelings of, “What am I doing here? Why am I busting my butt when no one seems to care but me?!?” It also brings great comfort to know that God cares and is infinitely aware of my headspace and struggles, my frustrations and fears. He cares enough to be present in these ugly moments, to listen to me vent, to speak to me in His still, soft voice, reassuring me of His presence, His sovereignty, His call for me. He is present in the striving. He cares about our fears, our exhaustion, our frustration. He actively seeks to help us find rest and renewal. Thank You, Lord.
1 Kings 19:11 The LORD said, “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the LORD, for the LORD is about to pass by.”
Lord, Thank You for this day, for this scripture, for this reminder that You have work for us to do. Thank You for understanding when we struggle with frustration, doubt, and fear, for being with us in those moments, for reassuring us and redirecting us back to You. Thank You for wanting real, intimate connection with us, especially in the difficult places. Help us to come to You, openly and honestly. Always. Draw us closer. Amen.
1 Kings 19:12 …And after the fire came a gentle whisper.
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.