“And he said, “I have been very zealous for the LORD God of hosts; because the children of Israel have forsaken Your covenant, torn down Your altars, and killed Your prophets with the sword. I alone am left; and they seek to take my life.” I Kings 19:14 NKJV
My heart goes out to Elijah at this point of his life, the truth is that the man of God was suffering from loneliness and what the Americans call “burnout “. From Ahab’s court to the brook Cherith, down to Zarepath to launch her flour mills, and then to mount Carmel for the rumble on the mountains. The prophet was tired, so after sending down the rain by his intercession for Israel he must have been more than exhausted. It had been work, work, work, no encouragement, no pat on the back, no human voice to say well done. At this point of semi depression, a little threat from evil Jezebel pushed the man of God over and he started praying for death. A single phone call might have saved the day.
When Elijah whimpered his situation to the Lord, his exploits, and his being alone, he was aptly corrected, God had in Israel, seven thousand faithfuls unknown to the champion. Couldn’t one of them have walked over to say Hi ? But maybe all were feeling equally alone, overwhelmed by a burden that could have been shared.
Is it possible that your pastor is lonely? Maybe the strong looking general overseer can do with a little encouragement. Yes, he looks great, standing on mount Carmel but God’s champion is only human. If he is a faithful servant of Christ, then you can be sure, that all hell hates him. A text message, a phone call, an encouragement large or small may be all that is needed to keep the champion standing.
Be like Barnabas, “ son of encouragement “ tell your leader that he is appreciated. You may be the fuel he needs.
Have yourself a joy filled day.