Depression Does Something Bad to Us: A Reflection on Elijah’s Journey
Depression is a force that tends to rob us of many good qualities. These are qualities that God has already bestowed upon us, meant to guide us through life’s challenges. However, this loss is not merely a personal struggle; it is part of a larger spiritual battle, a plot by the devil to weaken our resolve and faith. Recognizing this is vital for reclaiming our God-given strength.
Take the prophet Elijah, for instance—a man known for his extraordinary courage. Elijah’s bravery was nothing short of heroic. Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it would not rain; and it did not rain on the land for three years and six months. James 5:17
We read that “he prayed that it would not rain.” This prayer wasn’t a mere request; it was a sincere plea born out of a deep desire for his nation to return to God.
Elijah’s focus was on the spiritual well-being of his people, even if it meant enduring the hardships that came with a drought. He didn’t know how God would provide for him during this time; he only knew that a spiritual awakening was necessary. In his mind, if no rain meant people might turn back to God, then he was willing to face that dire situation alongside them. That is true courage!
Elijah’s bravery didn’t stop there. Imagine walking into the palace of King Ahab, one of the most wicked rulers, and boldly announcing God’s impending judgment. And Elijah the Tishbite, of the inhabitants of Gilead, said to Ahab, “As the LORD God of Israel lives, before whom I stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these years, except at my word.” 1 Kings 17:1
wasn’t just a message of doom; it was a declaration of God’s power and justice. After delivering this message, God assured Elijah that He would provide for him, guiding him to safety and sustenance.
But Elijah didn’t know this beforehand; he simply obeyed, trusting in God’s provision.
During this time, King Ahab was actively hunting Elijah.
'As the Lord your God lives, there is no nation or kingdom where my master has not sent someone to hunt for you; and when they said, ‘ He is not here, ’ he took an oath from the kingdom or nation that they could not find you. ' I Kings 18:10
Soldiers scoured the land to capture and kill him. Yet, in the midst of this peril, God sent Elijah to Sidon, the homeland of the wicked Queen Jezebel. Then, defying all odds, Elijah returned to confront King Ahab, declaring God’s truth even as soldiers sought his life
(1 Kings 18:15-18). What a brave man indeed!
The events on Mount Carmel further demonstrated Elijah’s .
Facing off against the prophets of Baal, Elijah stood firm in his faith, witnessing God’s mighty power in a dramatic showdown. There was no sign of weakness in him then. But after these intense encounters, Elijah experienced a physical and emotional collapse. The strength that had carried him through so much seemed to vanish, and depression set in. The once-brave prophet found himself fleeing for his life, gripped by fear and despair.
Depression is not just a modern-day affliction; it is a tool that the enemy has used throughout history to undermine the faith and resolve of God’s people. Elijah, one of the greatest prophets, was not immune to it. His story reminds us that even the strongest among us can falter under its weight. But it also teaches us that these moments of weakness do not define us. God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness, and He is always there, ready to restore us when we feel lost.
In recognizing the spiritual roots of depression, we can begin to fight back, not just with human effort but with the power of God. Elijah’s journey is a powerful reminder that while depression may rob us of our God-given qualities, it can never take away God’s love and provision for us. Let us, therefore, be vigilant, recognizing the enemy’s schemes, and holding fast to the strength that comes from our Creator.
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