July 24

Then he lay down under the broom tree and fell asleep. Suddenly an angel touched him and said, “Get up and eat.” And he looked around, and there by his head was a cake of bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. So he ate and drank and lay down again. A second time the angel of the LORD returned and touched him, saying, “Get up and eat, or the journey will be too much for you.” So he got up and ate and drank. And strengthened by that food, he walked forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God. — 1 Kgs 19:5-8 BSB

See how tender and loving God is. He followed His discouraged servant, keeping watch over him the whole way, and never abandoned him. This should bring comfort to all of us. God is very patient with us in our weaknesses and mistakes. He doesn’t break bruised reeds.

Notice also that when God wanted to restore Elijah’s soul, He started by attending to his physical needs. He gave him sleep and food until his body was refreshed. Many times, spiritual depression is caused by physical conditions. Often, the best remedy for discouragement is rest and sleep, allowing the body to recover.

This incident is a picture of how God continually prepares a table in the wilderness for His weary children. In times of sorrow, He provides food for them that the world cannot see. With this divine strength, they rise up and continue their journey with joy. Many people face hard circumstances in life but go through their days with cheerful, song-filled spirits because every morning in their private time with God, He provides them with the nourishment they need to stay strong.