Daily Devotional

Every now and then I just feel the need to unplug. I started thinking much more about that word and the other places and times it’s used. I began realizing that often when I need to unplug something it’s because, for one reason or another, the device is not working. Maybe it is overworked or maybe there’s a short circuit, but it’s clear that it needs a manual reset. The common phrase from the Technological Support department is, “Have you tried unplugging it and plugging it back in?” The same is true with us.
 
I’d feel safe to say that most of us reading this have never had our lives threatened by royalty but I would be willing to go out on a limb to say that it’s probably not a pleasant experience. Elijah has king Ahab and queen Jezebel coming after him. And this is just shortly after he saw an incredible display of God’s power. Despite being God's messenger, Elijah had enemies. After a dramatic encounter in which God miraculously answers his prayers, Elijah suddenly finds himself fleeing for his life. While at his lowest point, God appeared and did something totally unexpected. Elijah felt like it was game over, and there was no way he could continue. He was overwhelmed, yet God gave him exactly what he needed. Elijah took a nap, and was told to have a snack, and recover. It’s almost as if God simply said, “Unplug Elijah. I’ve got this.”
 
When we are feeling overwhelmed, sometimes we need to do our best computer impression and simply unplug. We need to rest and allow God to be the one who sustains and protects us. God doesn't need us to exhaust ourselves. Sometimes, we just need to be close enough to let God support us. We must come to Him when we are overwhelmed. We must let Him take care of us. And we must allow His word to be that which gives us rest. May we remember the psalmist's words, Psalm 4:8 “In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.”

English Standard Version (ESV)
The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.