“But you are a shield around me, O LORD; you bestow glory on me and lift up my head.” (Psalms 3:3)
When Elijah was at his lowest point, God told him these three important things:
- Spend more time with God. “Go out, and stand on the mountain before the LORD” (1 Kings 19:11). That was where God spoke to him in “a still small voice” (v. 12). The word “still” teaches us that instead of always working for God, we need to spend time with Him. If you don’t, you will run on empty, and get nowhere. When David was feeling down, he wrote: “Many are saying … ‘God won’t rescue him.’ But, LORD, you are my shield, my wonderful God who gives me courage. I will pray to the LORD and he will answer me” (Psalm 3:2-4).
- Stop trying to do it all yourself. That’s the fast route to depression. Leadership isn’t just about getting the job done; it’s about developing others and getting it done through them. Elijah wasn’t alone. God told him, “I have reserved seven thousand in Israel … whose knees have not bowed to Baal” (1 Kings 19:18). Don’t just operate — learn to cooperate!
- Realize your assignment isn’t over. God showed Elijah there were still kings to anoint, battles to win, and a successor to be prepared (see v. 16). Need a reason to get out of bed in the morning? God will give you one! When you’re “down”, He doesn’t get mad at you. On the contrary, His Word says, “He will not break the bruised reed, nor quench the dimly burning flame. He will encourage the fainthearted, those tempted to despair” (Isaiah 42:3). That’s the loving-kindness of God!
Prayer
Lord, be my strength and shield when I am troubled, and I will sing praises to Your Name for the grace You freely give me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Stay encouraged!
Pastor Mike
