Do you ever feel exhausted or frustrated — at work, in ministry, or in life?
Recently, after three back-to-back business trips and countless meetings, I found myself completely drained. Adding some ministry challenges on top of that, I felt both tired and discouraged.
Elijah felt the same. Right after a great spiritual victory over the prophets of Baal, he suddenly had to flee for his life (1 Kings 18–19).
“He went a day’s journey into the wilderness … sat down under a broom tree, and asked that he might die … Then he lay down and slept.” (1 Kings 19:4–5).
Elijah — a mighty prophet of God — reached a point of exhaustion, fear, and deep discouragement. This reminds us that even faithful servants of God can feel overwhelmed.
Yet what stands out is how God responded:
“An angel touched him and said, ‘Arise and eat.’ And at his head was a cake baked on hot stones and a jar of water.” (1 Kings 19:5–6).
Before addressing Elijah’s emotions, God cared for his physical needs. Sometimes the most spiritual thing we can do is rest, sleep, and nourish our bodies. God designed us with physical limits, and He meets us there.
After Elijah had rested, God spoke to him:
“The word of the Lord came to him: ‘What are you doing here, Elijah?” (1 Kings 19:9–10).
Elijah then poured out his feelings honestly before the Lord. This shows that God invites us to bring Him our frustrations, fears, and discouragements. He listens, understands, and responds with compassion.
So, when you feel exhausted or frustrated — in life, work, or ministry — remember this:
Take care of yourself, because the Lord cares deeply for you.
Grace & Peace,
Deacon Alvin Fu
