When Life Is Hardഉദാഹരണം

Day 3 – Strength for Today

Story: Elijah under the broom tree (1 Kings 19:1-8)

Sometimes, life feels like it drains every ounce of strength from us. We push forward for as long as we can, but eventually exhaustion sets in, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. In those moments, we often just want to give up.

Elijah, one of God’s great prophets, knew this feeling too well. After a decisive victory on Mount Carmel, where God revealed His power, Elijah expected revival. Instead, he fled for his life from Queen Jezebel’s threats. Discouraged, depleted, and afraid, Elijah wandered into the wilderness, sat under a broom tree, and prayed that he might die. In his despair, he cried out, “I have had enough, Lord.”

God did not scold Elijah for his weakness. Instead, He cared for him. An angel touched him, provided food and water, and allowed him to rest. Strengthened by this divine provision, Elijah eventually continued his journey, but this time it was not in his power; God sustained it.

The Lord did not condemn Elijah when he struggled. He met him in his moment of weakness. He could have declared over Elijah, “Do you not remember what I just did through you?” Instead, the Lord sees that Elijah needs food, water, sleep, and His presence. He provides all those things, nourishing his body, mind, soul, and spirit, and giving him direction for the path forward.

Isaiah 40:29-31 (NIV) reminds us that God “gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless.” Those who wait on Him will “renew their strength” and rise like eagles. Strength for today doesn’t come from pushing harder or pretending we’re fine; it comes from admitting our weakness and leaning fully on God’s power.

Life will have moments when we feel like Elijah under the broom tree. But as God met him there, He will meet us in our weakness. His presence, provision, and power are enough for today.

Reflection Question:

Where do you feel the most worn down right now? What would it look like for you to stop striving in your strength and begin relying on God’s strength instead?

Invitation to Prayer:

Take a moment today to admit your weakness before God. Ask Him to renew your strength and to carry you in the areas where you feel weary and unable to go on.