A Closer Look - I’ve had Enough, Lord | Pastor Greg Ford Sermon | One Church Columbus

I’ve had Enough, Lord | Pastor Greg Ford Sermon | One Church Columbus

ICEBREAKER:

How did you see God move this last week?

Summary:

In 1 Kings 19, the prophet Elijah experiences profound despair after a great victory over the prophets of Baal. Despite demonstrating God’s power on Mount Carmel, he finds himself fleeing from Queen Jezebel’s death threats, feeling isolated and defeated. This study explores the themes of despair, the importance of spiritual and physical health, God's gentle revelations, and the call to mentor and invest in future leaders.

Key Points

  1. Elijah's Despair (1 Kings 19:1-4):

    • Elijah faces a profound low after the victory at Mount Carmel.

    • His despair leads him to wish for death, feeling he is no better than his ancestors.

  2. Importance of Health (1 Kings 19:5-8):

    • An angel provides Elijah with food and rest, emphasizing the necessity of prioritizing physical health during emotional crises.

  3. Deeper Revelation of God (1 Kings 19:9-13):

    • God reveals Himself not through powerful storms or earthquakes, but through a gentle whisper, prompting Elijah to recognize God’s presence in stillness.

  4. Fresh Vision for the Future (1 Kings 19:15-16):

    • God commands Elijah to anoint future leaders, shifting his focus from immediate results to long-term impact through mentorship.

  5. Better Perspective on Life (1 Kings 19:18):

    • God assures Elijah that he is not alone, as there are still 7,000 in Israel who have remained faithful, reminding Elijah of a larger story and God’s continued work.

    • Scripture References

    • 1 Kings 19:1-18 (NIV): This passage includes Elijah's flight to the wilderness, his encounter with God, and the subsequent instructions for his mission.

Conclusion:

Elijah's journey illustrates that even those with profound faith can experience moments of despair. God meets us in our lowest points, providing support, new visions, and reminders of His greater plans. By prioritizing our health—both physical and spiritual—and recognizing God in the quiet moments, we can find direction and renewed purpose in our lives.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Personal Reflection: Have you ever felt like Elijah, in a moment of despair or feeling like you’ve "had enough"? Share your experience and how you coped.

  2. Health and Spirituality: What are some practical ways we can prioritize our physical health during times of emotional or spiritual distress?What are the symbolic events during Jesus' mock coronation compared to those of a Caesar?

  3. Understanding: Why do you think God chose to reveal Himself in a whisper rather than through a dramatic display, like the wind or earthquake, in Elijah's moment of despair?

  4. Reflection: What can we learn from God’s instructions to Elijah about mentoring the next generation in our own lives?

Guided Prayer:

Heavenly Father,
We come to you thankful for the lessons in Elijah's story. Help us to recognize when we are feeling overwhelmed and to seek both physical and spiritual nourishment. May we learn to find You not only in the grand displays of power but also in the gentle whispers of Your presence. Guide us as we seek to mentor and invest in the lives of others, reminding us that we are part of a larger story. Grant us the strength to move forward with renewed vision and purpose. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

One Church