I’m Joni Eareckson Tada and it’s time for Joni and Friends.
Have you ever caught yourself saying, “I have had enough! I am tired of this. Lord, maybe I’ve outlived my usefulness... to die, maybe it’s my time, maybe it would really would be gain.” Well, if you’re like me, there have been more than a few times when you’ve said that... or at least you’ve thought it.
And you and I are not the only ones. Even that powerful prophet named Elijah felt like he outlived his usefulness. And hey! Elijah wasn’t kidding around. Even though he had performed spectacular miracles just the day before (does that sound familiar?), the following day he hit rock bottom. Elijah really wanted to die — he even asked the Lord Himself to take his life.
Now, look what happens to Elijah next. First, God sends an angel. But the angel just doesn’t stand there with his hands on his hips, all exasperated and say, “What in the world do you have to complain about? Would you please get your act together and quit feeling sorry for yourself?! I mean, let’s get a little perspective here. You’ve got God on your side, you have this wonderful ministry, you’ve got people who love and respect you... would you quit acting like a wimp and shape up.”
No, the angel doesn’t say that. Instead, the angel provides rest and something to eat. The angel offers a listening empathetic ear and even agrees that Elijah needs help because the journey has been hard. The angel even presents Elijah with new work to do — switching focus onto others was just what Elijah needed.
Now here’s the thing. The lesson of Elijah is for us all. Just as surely as the angel of the Lord personally gave the prophet rest and strength, the Lord places His angels, His ministering spirits around us. And, oh, how I thank the Lord for those Christian friends who, when I get down or discouraged, don’t stand there with their hands on their hips and say, “Joni, what in the world do you have to complain about! You have this... you have that... quit acting like a wimp and shape up.” (Actually, I do have a couple of Christian friends who say things like that... and I must admit there are times when I need that kind of straight-talking, hard-hitting advice).
But all-in-all, I’m so grateful for friends who offer quiet and rest, strength and perspective in a gentle, encouraging way. I’m so grateful for friends who help me switch my focus onto others and their needs. Elijah was able to turn the corner and he was able to get back on track, thanks to God providing that kind of encouragement. And we are able to get back on track, too, when we take a moment to stop, catch our breath, rest, refresh ourselves, feel the love of a friend, and then switch our focus on others who may need the same kind of help and hope.
Do you feel like giving up today? You’re not alone. Elijah would understand. But most of all, God understands.
Friend, thanks so much for these special few minutes we have been able to share together, and because this program is called “Joni and Friends,” please know that I would love to hear from you, so drop me a line on “Joni’s Corner” at joniandfriends.org or you can always contact us at P.O. Box 3333, Agoura Hills, California 91376.
© Joni and Friends
Compliments of Joni and Friends
PO Box 3333 Agoura Hills, CA 91376