The Next [Elijah] said, “I have had enough! Lord, take my life, for I’m no better than my ancestors.” Then he lay down and slept under the broom tree. Suddenly, an angel touched him. The angel told him, “Get up and eat.” I Kings 19:4-5 

Just like Elijah, unexpected turns in life can leave us wanting to lie down, curl up, and die. We become so exhausted that getting out of bed is not an option—there’s nothing left but a pull to stay down, and the thought of working toward life as we knew it is overwhelming. These are times when working on anything is better left for a future time. Simply doing the next smallest act will bring the biggest reward, and that is merely to get up and eat.  

Our bodies need the basics—such as food and water. Our minds need the basics—such as simply knowing that Jesus loves us. Our spirits need truth and life from God’s Word—such as knowing that He is with us. Sometimes life needs to be that simple, and that’s okay. Our goal for each day is to do the next basic thing for as long as we need. God understands. 

Father, I’m so weak and lacking in desire to do anything except lie down and sleep.  I need rest, I need sleep, I need for my mind to be still and soak in some quiet. Help me to do the next thing by caring for my basic needs. Give me strength to feed my body. Give me Your Spirit to feed my soul. Give me Your presence to comfort my wounds. Give me the time and space I need right now to simply rest. I need You, Lord— be with me now.  

IN JESUS’ NAME. AMEN. 

This is an excerpt from Daily Prayers of Grieving Hearts – a devotional now available on DaySpring.com. Shop all books, journals, and devotions from DaySpring here.