Sometimes I can relate to Elijah when he sits down under a broom tree in the middle of the desert and says, “I have had enough, Lord.” (1 Kings 19:4)

Elijah was such a faithful prophet of God, He stood against the evil rule of King Ahab and his wife Jezebel, confronting 450 prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel and proving God’s power to the people through fire on the altar. But afterwards, Elijah found himself at a breaking point, wanting to quit.

Burnout hits all of us. When we pour ourselves into our work or our ministries, it is natural to sometimes get to a place where we feel empty and are tempted to give up. 

That’s when Hebrews 6 comes as a great reminder of what we need to do. Because, amazingly, we have direct access to our High Priest. And even more amazing, that High Priest experienced EVERYTHING we do as humans. He knows what it feels like to be completely drained.

Hebrews 6:15-16 says, “We do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”

What a blessing that our Savior has lived on this earth and experienced the weaknesses of humanity. How incredible that He was willing to put Himself in the position of a human and can relate to our emotions. 

And, just as an angel appeared to Elijah with food and water to strengthen him, Jesus will provide what we need to keep going when we come before His throne of grace.

It is so important that our work never overtakes our worship. Our weariness is likely a sign that we just need some time to be still in the presence of God, before His throne, in His Word, soaking in His truth, so that He can restore our souls.

Thank you, Lord, that you fully empathize with our weaknesses. Help us to understand our limits and make the time to come before Your throne to receive the mercy and grace that we so desperately need.