It was during a time of trial in my faith. What had seemed like a minor test gradually tightened its grip on me until it came to dominate every part of my spiritual life. As I failed to overcome the trial and spent my days in anguish, I felt utterly alone in the world. With tears, I prayed to God, asking for the strength to endure; and one day, I came across a verse that felt like an answer to that prayer:
“Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel—all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and whose mouths have not kissed him.” 1 Ki 19:18
The prophet Elijah, fleeing from Jezebel, an idol worshiper who sought his life, took refuge on Mount Horeb and poured out his complaint before God. He lamented that the Israelites had abandoned the covenant, torn down God’s altars, and put His prophets to the sword, leaving him alone, with even his life now being sought. God’s response to Elijah struck me deeply.
I had believed I was struggling alone, bearing the weight of faith that felt too heavy to carry. But in truth, countless brothers and sisters were fighting the same good fight and walking the path to the kingdom of heaven alongside me. Just realizing that gave me immense strength and comfort. What once seemed like an insurmountable mountain of hardship was overcome, and I emerged stronger in faith.
Holding on to our worries alone doesn’t change anything. In such times, lift your eyes and look around. You’ll see the brothers and sisters walking with you, and feel the gracious hand of God reaching out to help.