I Kings 19:4 But he himself [Elijah] 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."
Sometimes when things are tough, I'll flippantly think "I'd be better off if I were dead." That attitude is not suicidal, but based in the reality of what lies behind the grave for me as a believer. Some days, I'd rather be in heaven that putting up with crap on earth. I guess I'm in good company, because Paul seemed to feel this same way:
For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. But if I am to live on in the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which to choose. But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better (Philippians 1:21-23).
However, today as I read the account of Elijah running from Jezebel it struck me what an affront this escapist attitude is to God's plan for my life and His ability to see me through whatever lies ahead. Instead of wishing for an easy way out, I should reflect on what God has planned for my life. I need to change my worldview from self-focused to Christ-focused. Not only will this help keep me at peace during the worst of times, but it will enable me glorify God no matter the circumstance. It looks like my good company came to this same realization:
yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sake. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy in the faith, so that your proud confidence in me may abound in Christ Jesus through my coming to you again. (Philippians 1:24-26).
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