Wednesday: God is with us in the "I can't evens."

Scripture: 1 Kings 19:5-6    "And he lay down and slept under a broom tree. And behold, an angel touched him and said to him, 'Arise and eat.' And he looked, and behold, there was at his head a cake baked on hot stones and a jar of water. And he ate and drank and lay down again."

I’ve never slept under a broom tree, but I’ve definitely gone on a long drive and had choice words for myself and God.  Or I’ve locked myself in my room and crawled into bed.  Or I’ve gone on a long walk and cried out to God.  After all of those times, God has helped me through. Maybe I was limping through, but He was there…providing for my next step and my next breath.  Elijah's encounter with the angel illustrates God's understanding of the human need for physical and emotional restoration. Even amidst spiritual conflict, God provides for our everyday needs, acknowledging our limits. This passage emphasizes the importance of getting away with God, highlighting that spiritual strength is often connected with physical and emotional well-being.

The care given to Elijah shows God’s intimate understanding and provision. Through simple acts of nourishment and rest, God rejuvenates Elijah, preparing him for the journey ahead. This teaching reinforces that caring for our physical needs is essential and spiritual journeys should never overlook our human necessities.

Trust God in the I can't evens:  

In moments of exhaustion, Jesus invites us to find rest in Him, saying, "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." The Holy Spirit continually offers refreshment, guiding us to find balance and restoration through God's care.

ACTION STEP:  Assess your current physical and emotional needs. Ensure you are taking care of your basic needs by scheduling time for rest, nourishing meals, and moments of relaxation.

Prayer: God, thank you for the life and for the body that you have given me to steward and care for. Help me to treat it like a temple of Your Holy Spirit.  Help me to get the rest, nourishment, hydration, and support that I need, so that I can have a fruitful ministry and life for your glory. Amen.  

Christmas Song of the Day:  "Mary, Did You Know?"  (spoiler alert….she did actually know because the angel told her. LOL)   Danny Gokey - Mary, Did You Know? (Live Acoustic Sessions)