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NASB | 1 Kings 19:4 But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree; and he requested for himself that he might die, and said, "It is enough; now, O LORD, take my life, for I am not better than my fathers." |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | 1 Kings 19:4 But he himself traveled a day's journey into the wilderness, and he came and sat down under a juniper tree and asked [God] that he might die. He said, "It is enough; now, O LORD, take my life, for I am no better than my fathers." |
Bible Question:
I have been depressed off and on for the last few months and lately been thinking of killing myself, even though I won't do it. I know it would displease the Lord and that I need to stay here to for my children and husband. But I really don't want to go on living sometimes. To find Elijah feeling the same way is something of a comfort to me. Reading this chapter encouraged me. What I was wondering about this specific verse is, does Elijah say he is no better than his fathers because he recogizes that his depression does not please the Lord, that it shows his lack of faith? Is he filled with shame and self loathing? I think he might be, since it is just like our enemy, the accuser of the brethren, to tepmt us and then accuse us and tell us how unworthy of God's love we are when we fall. Tell me what you think. |
Bible Answer: I don't believe he thought it displeased the Lord or even that it was due to a lack of faith. He was worn out. He was human and he was experiencing human emotions. His statements reflect his discouragement and despair. God does not punish us for our feelings. He understands. Please continue reading the rest of the chapter, and notice how God responded to his prayer. He sent an angel to care for Elijah. He gave Elijah time to eat, sleep, and recover from all he had been through. After that he spoke to Elijah gently in a whisper! God loves you and He wants you to get the help you need. Depression is an illness and you need to do whatever it takes to recover. If you cannot eat or sleep, go to the doctor. You may need medication, and you really do need professional counselling. Don't try to go it alone. God uses people just as he used the angel to minister to Elijah. Pray and ask Him for wisdom to guide you to the right professionals. It takes time, but you can recover from depression. I know - I've been through it. |