Our Human Frailty (Part I)

We all know that a successful Christian life has peaks and valleys, but most of us hate to be in a valley. We don’t like the times of weakness because they make us think that we must not be a good Christian. 

We have learned to quote the Bible and speak eloquently of the giants in the faith. However, at times, we find ourselves at a loss for words or scriptures to console ourselves or others. It seems that everything we have learned and known up to that point, evaporates in a moment, and we are left bewildered in how to respond to the situation at hand. The truth is that we are not alone, and the Bible has some examples of brave and Godly individuals who found themselves lost and dumbfounded for a season.

And Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, also how he had executed all the prophets with the sword. 2 Then Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah, saying, “So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I do not make your life as the life of one of them by tomorrow about this time.” 3 And when he saw that, he arose and ran for his life, and went to Beersheba, which belongs to Judah, and left his servant there.

4 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!” 1Kings 19:1-5

Elijah had mightily faced prophets of Baal and shown them the power of God in the midst of grave opposition. That was a major feat for any man of God. Nowhere in the Bible is there any information about Elijah’s apprehension in facing these false prophets or wondering if God was going to come through for him. However, one woman’s threat changed everything for him! Jezebel’s threat led him to not only run away, but he also dreaded being alive! Why was there such a drastic change in Elijah’s life!?

We all can feel helpless like Elijah at times. We may be strong for a long time, but one thing takes us completely off course. Or we can be strong in many areas, but certain things or people push our vulnerable button and cause us to question ourselves. 

Is it possible that Elijah’s accomplishments gave him a false sense of self-righteousness? Success has a deceptive way of making us think that we are capable apart from God! Whenever we begin to feel self-righteous, it becomes a set-up by the enemy to attack us! If our focus becomes what we can do, then we look to ourselves when a new challenge arises.

Our spiritual walk was never intended to be done apart from the Lord! Our success should bring us closer in intimacy with Christ. Otherwise, we are trapped by that success, and now we begin to have greater confidence in our ability than God’s power. When a new challenge comes along our way, we measure it against our strength, and we fall short because our strength was never meant to be enough to face that challenge.

In addition, Elijah felt all alone that he was the only righteous person left. We are always meant to stay connected with others. If we just get busy with the tasks of the day or relish on our success at the sacrifice of relationships, sooner or later, we will find ourselves emotionally bankrupt. 

From Youtube:Healing hand of God by Jeremy Camp

If you are feeling frail today, remember that you are not alone and this does not make you a weak or a bad Christian. Talk to the Lord and be honest with your heart condition. Let Him comfort you with His spirit as He helps you how to deal with the situation!