TITLE:
“What are you doing here?’
SCRIPTURE:
When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave. Then a voice said to him, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” 1 Kings 19:13 (NIV)
OBSERVATION:
Elijah was depressed. My notes point out that he showed all the classic symptoms of depression. He felt isolated. He withdrew. He had sorry for himself. He had a pity party, feeling he was worthless. As he put it “I am not better than my fathers." He even becomes suicidal and expresses his desire to die.
The good news was that God didn’t want Elijah to remain in this depressive state. God came alongside him and asked, not once, but twice, “Elijah, what are you doing here?” This question wasn’t just about where Elijah was physically, but where he was emotionally and spiritually. The Lord provided a way out for Elijah. He cared for him physically (1 Kings 19:7-9). He appeared to him and refreshed him spiritually(1 Kings 19:11ff), and he gave him a purpose and helped him emotionally (1 Kings 19:15ff).
APPLICATION:
I’m so glad that God is interested in my whole being. The Hebrews had a word for that ---Shalom. It means more than “peace." It involves health and completeness. God wants me to be healthy in every area of my life, even emotionally! While it’s hard for me to identify depression in myself, it is my wife who will tell me that she thinks I’m depressed. Like Elijah, I can feel sorry for myself and think that no one really understands. God is so gracious as he brings others around me to encourage me and show himself to him in my quiet times with him. He is always so faithful to give me a purpose and direction. Today I thank God for a merciful God who cares about all of my life!!!
PRAYER:
Father, thank you that you care about everything that happens in our lives! Forgive me for the times I’ve let depression distort my feelings and actions. I want to trust you more. Please fill me with your presence and love. Help me to fully follow you. AMEN.
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