Devotional
When Elijah collapsed under the juniper tree, exhausted and wanting to die, God didn’t give him a lecture about faith or a pep talk about pressing on. Instead, God let him sleep. Then He provided food and water. Then He let him sleep some more. Only after Elijah’s physical needs were met did God address the deeper spiritual issues. This reveals something beautiful about God’s understanding of how He created us. We are spiritual beings, but we live in physical bodies. When our bodies are depleted – whether from lack of sleep, poor nutrition, or physical exhaustion – it affects everything else: our emotions, our mental clarity, and yes, even our spiritual sensitivity. How often do we try to push through physical exhaustion with spiritual disciplines alone? We pray harder when we need to sleep more. We seek spiritual solutions when we might simply need to take better care of our bodies. God knows that sometimes the most spiritual thing we can do is take a nap, eat a healthy meal, or go for a walk. This doesn’t minimize the importance of spiritual disciplines, but it acknowledges that God created us as whole beings. He cares about every aspect of our well-being – body, mind, and spirit. When you’re struggling spiritually, it might be worth asking: When did I last get a good night’s sleep? Am I eating well? Am I taking care of my physical health? God’s care for Elijah reminds us that rest isn’t laziness – it’s wisdom. Self-care isn’t selfish – it’s stewardship of the body God has given us.
Bible Verse
“When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, while he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness. He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. ‘I have had enough, Lord,’ he said. ‘Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.'” – 1 Kings 19:9
Reflection Question
What physical needs in your life might you be neglecting that could be affecting your emotional and spiritual well-being?
Quote Sometimes you don’t need a sermon, and sometimes you don’t need a lesson. And sometimes you don’t need a lecture. And sometimes you don’t need a concert. Sometimes you just need a nap.
Prayer
Father, thank You for creating me as a whole person – body, mind, and spirit. Help me to be a good steward of my physical health, recognizing that caring for my body is part of honoring You. Show me when I need rest and give me wisdom to take care of myself. Amen.