1 Kings 19:5 …All at once an angel touched him and said, “Get up and eat.”
When I was led back to this passage yesterday, I was a little confused. I could see if it were the beginning of summer, but for a teacher at the end of summer break, this seemed an odd section for Him to call me to, but my precious Savior always knows what I need, and today’s section makes a lot of sense as I am poised to head back to school next week.
1 Kings 19:6 He looked around, and there by his head was some bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank and then lay down again.
Elijah was exhausted and frustrated, and he poured all that out to God. God’s primary response was to take care of his physical needs—rest and nourishment. At the end of this summer break, I find myself grateful for the rest and renewal I feel, rooted in my Savior, accomplished through a summer of relaxing and traveling. I was exhausted. He heard my cry, allowed me to place my burdens at His feet, and gave me rest. Thank You, Jesus.
1 Kings 19:7 The angel of the LORD came back a second time and touched him and said, “Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you.”
Lord, Thank You for this day, for this scripture, for sending nourishment and renewal when we so desperately need it. Sometimes I’m guilty of thinking, “If this is God’s will for me, I just have to buckle down and plow through, even if I’m discouraged, exhausted, or afraid.” Thank You that You don’t ask me to go it alone, that I can be real and honest with You about where I am. Thank You for understanding the magnitude of what You are asking me to do and for calling me to rest and renew in You. Help me to listen and obey. Renew my spirit. Draw me closer. Amen.
1 Kings 19:8 So he got up and ate and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God.
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.