If you’re currently employed, have you had days when you hated your job? Have you had a week so frustrating that you prayed the following Monday wouldn’t come? Have you been aggravated by lazy co-workers, insensitive supervisors, or office politics? Or, maybe you’ve been laid-off, asked to assume more responsibility without more pay, or worked tirelessly with no promise, or potential for, advancement.
If you’ve ever said “I hate this job!” then you’re in good company, for even God’s chosen vessels express dissatisfaction with their “jobs.” Elijah, the main character in the verse cited above, hated his job. He hated it so much that he asked God to take his life. What triggered Elijah’s frustration? He felt singled-out: “I have zealously served the Lord God Almighty. But the people of Israel have broken their covenant with you, torn down your altars, and killed every one of your prophets. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me, too” (1 Kings 19:10, New Living Translation). He felt like he was the only one upholding the standard of excellence, modeling integrity, and working passionately. In the pit of his frustration, however, he realized he wasn’t alone. He had God, and God reassured him that he wasn’t alone, “I will preserve 7,000 others in Israel who have never bowed down to Baal or kissed him!” (1 Kings 19:18, New Living Translation).
After Elijah received the Word, he resumed his responsibilities with passion. I hope you’ll do the same. You’re not the only one coming to work on time, working long hours, or modeling the company’s values. God has other employees on the battlefield with you. Hang in there, and watch God move on your behalf!