Elijah’s Renewed Faith

Elijah’s Renewed Faith reminds us that even in fear and exhaustion, God meets us with a whisper—restoring strength and purpose.

“He was afraid, and he arose and ran for his life … he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness … and he asked that he might die.”—1 Kings 19:3–4

Elijah was exhausted. Discouraged. No longer filled with the faith that had enabled him to stand alone against 450 prophets of Baal. He had become intimidated by the threats of Queen Jezebel, and afraid, he ran.

Elijah was feeling vulnerable. Seeing no hope, he was ready to give up. But then God told him to go “stand on the mount”—and He would be there. At first, Elijah felt “a great and strong wind,” but God “was not in the wind.” Then the earth shook with a mighty earthquake, followed by a fire. But God was not in either the quake or the fire. Then there was “a sound of a low whisper,” a “still small voice” (NKJV)—and that is when Elijah experienced God’s presence (vs. 11–13). He received God’s direction and reassurance and went back into ministry to complete his assignment.

We see that even mature believers may need turnarounds. At times, we all must be renewed in our relationship with God and reminded to depend on Him and not on ourselves. We can find that turnaround, like Elijah did, in quiet times alone with the Lord, where He can refresh, teach, strengthen, and guide us.

If you become discouraged, remember to turn to God. If you feel alone, know that He is near. Seek Him and believe Him for the power that’s available to you. Let Him turn your life around and meet your every need.

Reflection Question: Where might God be whispering renewal into your weary heart?