2 Corinthians 12: 9 -10
February 18, 2025
TODAY’S GOSPEL READING – 18 FEBRUARY
February 18, 2025
THE 18th OF FEBRUARY
DISCOURAGEMENT HAS ITS EFFECTS
But he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a broom tree. And he prayed that he might die, and said, “It is enough! Now, Lord, take my life, for I am no better than my fathers!” – 1 Kings 19:4
Fearing death gave Elijah power to walk the distance that someone who had rested and was in good shape could walk, for one day. After putting the effort, he came to where he wanted to die. But did he not run away from Jezebel to stay alive? He could have spared himself the exhaustion of the long walk and let Jezebel kill him, if that was what he truly wanted. All the success’ euphoria and physical effort, exhausted Elijah. When we are tired and sad, and not spending enough time in the presence of the Holy Spirit, we are weakened and it makes it easier for the evil one to ensnare us.
Elijah’s words suggested that until then, he considered himself better than his ancestors. He had a successful life for years, and as a result, pride began to rise up in his heart. But because pride goes before the fall, he had forgotten that God was the source of his strength. Everything he did, was with the help of the Lord and as a result, fear filled his heart. Being physically exhausted, fearful and desperate, he had begun to realize that he was by far, not as great as he had thought he was. He was only a step away from wishing he was dead.
SUGGESTED PRAYER
Dear Lord Jesus, please forgive me for sinning against You and please cleanse me in Your Holy Blood. Thank You for Your Precious Blood that has the same power to cleanse our sins, as when You shed it on the cross. Lord please help me keep a humble heart and know that, as Elijah eventually realised, I can do things only with Your help and am nothing without You. Help me see things from Your perspective, as in Your Holy Name I make this prayer. Amen
