Chapter 40
Didn’t we just read of this Elijah … we see Elijah at the pinnacle of his ministry. There he is on Mt. Carmel taking on the whole army of the prophets of Baal single-handedly in the name of the living God of Israel, and achieving a stunning, fiery victory. … yet, so soon after ….
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.” Then he lay down under the bush and fell asleep. 1. Kings 19; 1-5
This past week, on the 10th of October, we observed World Mental Health Day—a day dedicated to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and promoting mental well-being around the globe. 🌍
Elijah’s experience of exhaustion, fear, and despair, followed by divine restoration, mirrors the struggles many face today. Drawing from Dr. Christopher Wright’s insights, here are four key aspects of God’s tender care that can guide us through moments of emotional and mental distress:
1️⃣ Rest and Nourishment
In Elijah’s darkest moment, God didn’t immediately demand action or deep introspection. Instead, He provided the essentials: rest, food, and water. Often, our first steps toward healing are to attend to our physical needs—sleep, nutrition, and hydration. Self-care, sometimes overlooked in its simplicity, can be the foundation for emotional recovery.
2️⃣ Back to Basics
After Elijah’s physical needs were met, God reminded him of his core mission and calling. He brought Elijah back to the basics of his faith, grounding him in what mattered most. In moments of mental struggle, revisiting our values, beliefs, or passions can help us reconnect with our sense of purpose.
3️⃣ Gentle Reflection
Through a quiet, gentle whisper, God asks Elijah, “What are you doing here?” This moment of calm reflection is an invitation to pause and reassess. Elijah’s story teaches us that reflection doesn’t have to be harsh or critical. Sometimes, gentle introspection leads us back to clarity and self-understanding.
4️⃣ Recommissioning
God doesn’t leave Elijah in his despair. Instead, He recommissions him—giving him new direction and purpose. Importantly, God also ensures Elijah knows he isn’t alone by providing him with a companion. In the same way, we are reminded that in our moments of struggle, finding support, community, and renewed purpose can be the path to restoration.
This World Mental Health Day, may we be reminded that even in our darkest moments, healing is possible. Just as Elijah experienced, we too can find rest, reflection, and renewal. Let us extend compassion, both to ourselves and to those around us, as we navigate the complexities of mental health. 🌿
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Matthew 11:28
For more insights into Elijah’s journey and its relevance to mental health, read the full article: Elijah and the Healing of Depression and Fear
Wishing you a good start to this week.
Philemon