[Elijah] was afraid . . . He himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree . . . He lay down and slept . . . and behold, there was an angel touching him, and he said to him, “Arise, eat.” – 1 Kings 19:3-5
Elijah had just experienced a great victory. He was at the top of his game—the pinnacle of his career—but then he experienced a fall.
On Mt. Carmel, Elijah had seen God defeat the prophets of Baal. Queen Jezebel was livid. The prophets responsible for her daily worship experience were dead, and Elijah appeared to be the victor. However, someone should have taken a moment to look beyond the obvious and point to the One who really made things happen—the Lord God.
Instead of doing this, Elijah enjoyed the break in the action by reminding himself that he was the only one who had been faithful to God—a statement that smelled of pride. Jezebel issued her decree. She would kill Elijah before sunset.
God’s prophet did what many of us do, especially when we have just emerged victorious from a spiritual battle only to face a menacing enemy—he ran. Elijah ran hard and ended up under the scant shade of a broom tree, asking God to let him die! However, instead of answering Elijah’s prayer, God put him to sleep. He also sent an angel with a full meal for Elijah. This was not leftovers—this was heaven’s best food sent by a divine messenger with the sole purpose of giving strength to a servant of God.
Today you may feel like Elijah. You’ve come through a difficult season, but you’re now facing something that could disrupt your spiritual fellowship with God. You need angelic food, and you need to stand firm in your faith. God’s angels are at your side. However, admit your need for God. The moment you do, heaven’s doors will open, and the Lord will come to your aid.
