Elijah at the Therapist’s Office — When Prophets Get Tired

If Elijah lived today, you might see him slouched in the waiting room of a quiet counseling center, hood pulled over his head, hoping no one recognized him from Sunday school posters. This was the man who had called down fire from heaven, who had seen God work miracles through his hands — yet now, he’s weary, anxious, and wondering if it’s all worth it.

We read in 1 Kings 19 that Elijah, after a mountaintop victory, fell into deep despair, even praying that God would take his life. That’s not the story we usually put on church billboards. But it’s one we need to hear.

Because here’s the truth:
Faith does not make us immune to mental exhaustion. And seeking help is not a sign of spiritual failure — it’s a sign of courage. Elijah didn’t stop being a prophet when he was tired. He didn’t stop belonging to God when he was overwhelmed. God cared for his physical needs first — food, rest, solitude — and then spoke to him in a gentle whisper.

Imagine Elijah in modern times telling his counselor: "I just feel like I’ve given everything and it’s still not enough." And the counselor reminding him: "You are not your output. You are God’s child."

Faith and Therapy — Competing or Completing?

Some believe mental health treatment competes with faith, as though a therapist’s office replaces the altar. But the two can work together. Therapy can give language to your pain; faith gives meaning to it. Therapy can teach coping tools; faith gives hope that healing is possible.

God designed us as whole beings — mind, body, and spirit. Neglecting one part doesn’t make us more faithful; it just leaves us unbalanced.

Call to Action:

If Elijah can admit his exhaustion, so can you. This week:

• Schedule that counseling appointment you’ve been putting off.

• Tell a trusted friend where you’re struggling — don’t hide behind your “church smile.”

• Meditate on 3 John 1:2 and ask God to prosper you wholly — spirit, soul, and body.

Because healing WHOLLY is HOLY