A Snack, a Nap & God’s Loving Care
Sometimes, life feels like it is spinning out of control. As adults, we hide such feelings from each other – what would my friends think if they knew how I am really feeling!?! Toddlers, on the other hand, are far more honest; we all know how they are feeling! Sometimes, what the cranky toddler needs most is as simple as a cookie and a cozy blanket. We may think our problems are more complex, but there is profound wisdom there. God has made us as physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual human beings. And God, our loving Father, always knows exactly what we need, even if it may not always be what we think we need.
God meets us in our weakness and calls us to trust and obey Him, without crankiness, questions, or pushback. Think with me about the story of Elijah in 1 Kings 18. Elijah is coming off a high point, confronting and defeating the prophets of Baal and witnessing God’s fire from heaven. But in 1 Kings 19, Elijah is exhausted, afraid, and alone in the wilderness, running for his life from Jezebel’s threats. He collapses, crying out, “I’ve had enough, Lord… let me die” (1 Kings 19:4). Elijah is burnt out — physically, emotionally, and spiritually. What does God do? He doesn’t scold or demand that Elijah just “try harder.” Instead, God sends an angel to provide bread and water, inviting Elijah to eat and rest. “He ate and drank and lay down again” (1 Kings 19:6).
God knew that Elijah’s immediate need was not a pep talk but literally, a snack and a nap! Only when God had met Elijah’s physical need did God move to Elijah’s spiritual need.
God expresses His sovereignty in tender compassion, orchestrating every detail of life for His glory and our good. Elijah’s story reminds us: even when we’re overwhelmed, God’s provision is perfect. He sustains us, not because we deserve it, but because He is faithful. Our response, like Elijah’s, must be to trust and obey without hesitation. After resting, Elijah hears God’s gentle whisper and receives new instructions (1 Kings 19:12-15). He doesn’t argue or push back; he rises to obey, strengthened by God’s grace.
For us, life’s challenges - health struggles, family concerns, or heart weariness - can feel like deadly threats. Yet God sees us and meets us where we are. He may provide a meal through a friend’s kindness or rest through a quiet moment, so that we can again be strengthened through His Word. His call is simple: trust His provision and obey His voice, knowing He is sovereign. So, dear friends, when life feels heavy, take the snack and nap God offers. Rest in His care, then follow where He leads, for He always knows what we need.
In His love,
Pastor Jamie
