The Angel and The Juniper Tree

Elijah was afraid and fled for his life. He went to Beersheba, a town in Judah, and he left his servant there. Then he went on alone into the wilderness, traveling all day. He sat down under a solitary broom tree and prayed that he might die. “I have had enough, Lord,” he said. “Take my life, for I am no better than my ancestors who have already died.” 1 Kings 19:3-4 (NLT)

Let’s be real—most of us have wanted to give up and run away at some point, just like Elijah. Maybe you’re overwhelmed right now, sitting under your very own juniper tree, muttering, “Lord, I’m done! Beam me up, please!”

But don’t lose hope! I want to encourage you to take back control from the enemy and remember that God is still hanging around—even when you give up!

God doesn’t leave you just because you’re having a dramatic moment. When Elijah was totally spent—confused, scared, and just plain over it—God didn’t say, “Well, another one bites the dust!” No, He sent Elijah a private angel—an angelic butler and chef!

I imagine God briefing the angel: “Okay, this guy’s a mess. He’s grumpy, confused, and feeling sorry for himself. He thinks he wants to quit, but I know he doesn’t. Give him some food, let him rest, and then nudge him—he’s got more to do! Remind him that no one can do this alone—not even My top prophet.”

Check out what the Bible says in 1 Kings 19:5-7 (NLT). "But as he was sleeping, an angel touched him and told him, ‘Get up and eat!’ He looked around and there beside his head was some bread baked on hot stones and a jar of water! So he ate and drank and lay down again. Then the angel of the Lord came again and touched him and said, “Get up and eat some more, or the journey ahead will be too much for you.”

That meal powered Elijah for forty days and nights. That’s a real power breakfast!

Thank goodness for that angel! The truth is, life’s journey is tough for all of us. That’s why God gave us His Word. Better than an angelic chef, God’s Word is where you’ll find all the nourishment you need for the tough times ahead. Dig in!