Text:
‘”I have had enough, Lord”, he said. “Take my life, I am no better than my ancestors.”’ – 1 Kings 19:4
Thought:
The title of Today’s Teaching can be interpreted in several ways. For example, as a reply to the question, “Would you like some more dessert?” No thanks, I’ve had enough.” Unless, of course, what’s being offered is another slice of Jenny’s scrumptious pavlova, then I’m having some more whether I am full up or not!
It could also be the response of an exasperated parent informing their child they’ve had enough and disciplinary action is on its way! Or maybe it’s the frustration of a golfer, leaving the course vowing never to return, when the drives and putts go astray.
Another way, “I’ve had enough” is commonly used is as a response to a problem or difficulty. This is the context of Today’s Teaching about Elijah’s outpouring. He had had enough!
Let’s have a look at what caused Elijah to end up in this state and see how God responded. It will reassure us that God has our best interests at heart at all times.
- Elijah’s depression
Depression is a terrible condition and judging by the amount of tranquillisers prescribed every year, far more people are affected by it than most realise. What had brought Elijah so low?
- It started with a fear
Yesterday – fearless, today – fearful and on the run. Jezebel’s threat to kill him caused him to panic and run for his life. Yet only the day before, he seemed invincible, confronting the king, false prophets and a backslidden nation. Fear is a terrible thing that must be rooted out.
- It made him isolate himself
Sending his trusted companion servant in one direction, he ran off in another. ‘It’s not good for man to be alone,’ 1 God said when He created this world. Isolation makes us vulnerable. See how the predators try to isolate the young and sickly animals from the herd, making then easy prey. Are you turning off your phone, not returning calls or answering the door because depression is gripping your life? Do you feel all alone as fears, imaginary or real, are causing you to run away and hide?
- It made him question his ability – ‘I am no better than my ancestors’
Perhaps he had puffed out his chest in pride at the amazing victory he had experienced on Mount Carmel. 2 Others may have forsaken God but not him. Have you been critical of others’ sins and weaknesses, only to find you are not as strong as you thought you were?
- It made him want to end his life – ‘Take my life’
Depressed, lonely and in utter despair, he prayed to die. We wrongly think that death will end our misery, but what will it do for those left behind? Is there any hope for anyone in such a state as Elijah?
- God’s response to Elijah
Does God despise the weak, sick, lonely and depressed? Has He any time for those brought low by life’s trials and tragedies? The Bible promises, ‘He won’t walk over anyone’s feelings, won’t push you into a corner.’ 3
- God heard Elijah’s prayer
We can be thankful for Elijah’s honesty in recounting his dark trial for the writer of 1 Kings. He didn’t gloss over things but told it as it was. God wants to hear the prayer of your heart. He’s not afraid of your emotions or outbursts when you reach rock bottom. So often the end of ourself is God’s starting point. If God heard Elijah’s prayer as he sat under a tree in the desert, He will hear yours wherever you are today.
- Elijah needed some food and sleep
Depression takes away our appetite and fear robs us of sleep. Everything in life seems so much harder when we don’t eat or sleep properly. So often it’s a practical step that needs to be taken first on our road to recovery. An angel provided him meals that would sustain him for the journey ahead. Look around, there are those who want to care for you.
- Elijah had to learn to recognise God’s voice again
In the midst of turmoil, so many voices screamed out in his head, accusing, condemning, and driving him mad. The earthquake, wind and fire all shook the mountain, but it wasn’t until he heard the still, small voice that he knew God was speaking to him.
- The answer God gave to Elijah – “Things are not as bad as you think!”
“You think you’re the only one left who is true to Me but there are 7000 you know nothing about!” 4 Depression and fear always distort the picture making it appear worse than it really is.
- God told him who his replacement would be
He wasn’t sacked immediately as a failure but would have the responsibility of training his replacement. The work wouldn’t come to an inglorious end, but would continue through the ministry of Elisha. 5
- There was still work for Elijah to do
God still wanted to use him in influencing nations by anointing the next kings of both Israel and Syria. Also he would once again fearlessly confront Ahab and Jezebel over their murderous scheme to steal Naboth’s vineyard. 6
- God planned a supernatural exit from this earth for Elijah
Not a lonely grave in the desert, but a chariot of fire taking him heavenward. 7 The best was yet to come, for he appeared with Moses on the Mount of Transfiguration talking to Jesus. 8 The best can still be for you too when you recognise and respond the God’s voice.
Why not stop everything right now and lift your heart to God in prayer? Tell Him exactly how you see things, then listen to what He says to you about your depression and fear.
You will be surprised!
For the full account of this episode in Elijah’s life read 1 Kings 18:20 – 19:21
1 – Genesis2:18
2 – 1 Kings 18:20-40
3 – Matthew 12:20 The Message
4 – 1 Kings 19:18
5 – 1 Kings 19:19-21
6 – 1 Kings 21:17-29
7 – 2 Kings 2:11
8 – Matthew 17:3
Thank you for this teaching. Many people are grappling with fear and depression. At my current workplace in Nairobi, a colleague came to talk to me . She exhibited strong symptoms of depression after suffering two miscarriages. As if that was not enough, she recently received a bad medical diagnosis. This material is very timely as I encourage her with the love of God. May the Lord bless your travel plans as you labour in His vineyard.