Arise and Eat!

Some of you will experience a challenge after a great victory. Challenges aren't meant to discourage you or kill you. Challenges are meant to mature us on our spiritual journey. Elijah had won a great victory for the people of God over the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel. God sent down fire from heaven to consume his sacrifice, but shortly after that fear overcame him. After his victory, Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah to promise his fate. Jezebel made a death threat. So, Elijah fled and desired for God to take his life.

Elijah didn't focus on the powerful works the Lord had performed. He had just predicted a terrible famine, in which the Lord didn't send rain for three years. After that, Elijah prayed and God sent a torrential downpour. Elijah didn't think about how God could protect and/or provide for him. He didn't trust God, so he decided to run from his problems.

In the wilderness, Elijah sat there in his misery and asked God to take his life. Instead of taking his life, God sent an angel of the Lord to deliver a message. The angel of the Lord touched Elijah and instructed him to "Arise and eat." Elijah ate and drank, and then laid back down. The angel of the Lord returned the second time and instructed Elijah to arise and eat because the journey would be too much for him. So, Elijah ate and drank again, and the food strengthened him to travel for 40 days and 40 nights.

It was on the mountain that God appeared to Elijah and gave him instructions. God didn't allow him to be killed by Jezebel's hand. God showed Elijah that He was still in control. Isn't it great that God doesn't give up on us? Imagine if God would have approved Elijah's request. He wouldn't have fulfilled his purpose or calling on his life. Most importantly, he wouldn't have been given the opportunity to mentor Elisha.

God looked past Elijah's fears and saw the plans and purposes He had for his life. God provided Elijah strength, refreshment, and restoration. God reminded Elijah that there's nothing too hard for Him. There's no point in becoming fearful of the messages the enemy has sent you. The messages are death threats that won't be fulfilled.

God didn't give us a spirit of fear, He gave us power, love, and a sound mind. It's time to stop being discouraged or distracted. Let your previous victories show you the power and glory God possesses. If God performed powerful works before in your life, He will do it again. If you give up now, you will miss the plan God has for your life. Walking in defeat isn't an option. Arise sons and daughters of God, and eat. Be strengthened for the journey ahead!