Day 3: God in the Darkness
-
In the book of 1 Kings, we meet Elijah — a prophet of God who has this massive showdown with 450 false prophets of Baal. God shows up in power, there’s a huge victory, and Elijah is right in the middle of it.
But just a few days later, Queen Jezebel threatens his life… and Elijah runs. He takes off into the bush, scared and exhausted.
Out there, in the wilderness, he lays down and prays that God would take his life.
But in Elijah’s depression, God shows up. He doesn’t rebuke him, guilt-trip him, or call him a failure.
He feeds him. Strengthens him. Loves him.
The truth is, nobody likes going into dark places. But when you’re there, just remember — God is there too.
He walks with us in darkness. He loves us when we’re broken.
Let’s Talk
Elijah was a Biblical big-wig and had just witnessed one of the most powerful moments in the Bible — fire from heaven, a massive spiritual victory, a mountain of dead false prophets... its was a clear move of God that he was right in the middle of.
But only days later, he’s completely undone.
He runs. He hides. He lies under a bush and prays for God to take his life. Sugar coat it any way you like, but that is a suicidal prayer.
This isn’t the polished version of faith we often hear about.
This is a prophet of God having a full-blown meltdown.
And what does God do?
He doesn’t yell at him.
He doesn’t say, “After all I’ve done for you?”
He doesn’t threaten, abandon, or withdraw.
He makes him a meal. He lets him rest. He stays near.
God doesn’t write you off when you’re depressed. He doesn’t cancel your calling because you’ve fallen apart. He walks with you through the darkness and He loves you when you’re broken just as much as when you’re having a win.
Scripture
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
— Psalm 34:18 (NIV)
Mental Health Moment
Depression, anxiety, or any other form of mental ill-health doesn’t mean you’ve failed spiritually. It doesn’t mean God is disappointed in you — or that He’s distant.
Mental and emotional exhaustion are real. They hit prophets, pastors, and ordinary people alike. Elijah’s breakdown wasn’t a crisis of belief — it was the collapse of a soul that had carried too much for too long.
Kay Warren, whose son died by suicide, has walked through this kind of darkness firsthand. She writes:
“Your illness is not your identity. Your chemistry is not your character. You are deeply loved by the God who formed you, even in the midst of your pain.”
Like Elijah, the way forward often starts with the basics: rest, food, silence, and the simple truth that you’re not alone.
If God didn’t abandon Elijah in his despair, He won’t abandon you in yours.
Practice for Today
If you’re in a low place today, ask:
What’s one simple act of kindness I can offer myself?
A snooze. A meal. A moment outside. A deep breath. Some time at the beach… did I mention a snooze :)
Write this truth down and keep it close:
“God doesn’t withdraw from me in the dark — He draws near.”
A Prayer for the Weary and Worn Down
God,
You see the places in me that feel tired, heavy, or hopeless.
You don’t rush me or rebuke me — You come closer.
Help me to rest today in the truth that I’m still loved, still known, and still held.
Even here.
Amen.
Reflection Prompt
What dark place have you assumed disqualifies you from being close to God?
How does Elijah’s story challenge that belief?
