Then he lay down and slept under the broom tree. But as he was sleeping, an angel touched him and told him, “Get up and eat!” He looked around and there beside his head was some bread baked on hot stones and a jar of water. So he ate and drank and lay down again. 1 Kings 19:5–6, NLT

Have you ever had one of those days where everything feels like too much? The kind of day where the smallest inconvenience sets you off, and no matter what anyone says or does, your patience is gone?

I think we all have.

Elijah had one of those days too. He was worn out, overwhelmed, and ready to give up. This mighty prophet, who had just witnessed God perform incredible miracles, found himself running away and collapsing under a tree, asking God to take his life.

But instead of rebuking Elijah or giving him a pep talk, God sent an angel to care for him. The angel didn’t give Elijah a long to-do list or demand he “power through.” Instead, he offered simple, practical care: food, water, and rest.

I’ve learned from experience that sometimes we overcomplicate what we need in hard moments. There have been plenty of days when I’ve hit a wall—exhausted, overwhelmed, and running on empty—only to realize that what I really needed was exactly what God gave Elijah: a break, some food, and a little rest. That’s why I’ve started using the phrase “take an Elijah moment.” Whether it’s my own kids grumbling or my students dragging their feet, I remind them—just like I have to remind myself—to pause, grab a snack, or rest. Now it’s become a running joke—my kids will often beat me to it: “I know, Mom—I need an Elijah moment.” And you know what? It works.

Taking an Elijah moment doesn’t have to be elaborate. It could be:

• Grabbing a healthy snack or even treating yourself to a coffee or french fries
• Closing your classroom door for a few minutes to breathe and pray
• Lying down for a short nap or going to bed earlier tonight
• Cancelling a commitment to carve out time for rest

God designed us for rest and will take care of our schedules when we trust Him. When Elijah was worn thin, God didn’t tell him to push harder—He gave him rest and refreshment. The same is true for us. So when you feel overwhelmed, pause, breathe, and trust that God will sustain you.

Today, what might your Elijah moment look like? Take a breath, lean into God’s care, and let Him restore your strength.

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your calling to take care of ourselves and rest. Give us opportunities today to do just that. Help us to be intentional going forward to schedule these moments so that we can be restored. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Copyright Morgan Preston.

Morgan is a former middle school language arts and social studies teacher. She is currently Christian Educators’ Marketing and Communications Coordinator and serves her middle school students and teachers through First Priority.