Faith on the Mountain and in the Valley: Elijah’s Journey

This week in our Elijah series, we discussed the highs and lows of following God, through the lens of Elijah’s journey in 1 Kings 18 and 19. Mark helped us unpack the dramatic mountaintop moment of Elijah’s showdown with the prophets of Baal, where God’s power was displayed through fire and the promise of rain fulfilled. Yet, just after this victory, Elijah experienced deep fear and despair—reminding us that even great faith is not immune to disappointment. We explored how exhaustion, unmet expectations of God, and isolation can lead to spiritual lows, and how God responds with care, rest, and gentle presence rather than condemnation. Through practical stories and Elijah’s encounter with God’s whisper, we saw the importance of honest self-reflection, Sabbath rest, and leaning into community. Whatever season you’re in, Elijah’s story invites us to reconsider our view of God and others, and to keep trusting—even when faith feels hard. We hope you’ll take time this week to reflect on where God may be whispering in your journey.Questions:  1.  How does your heart respond to this part of the story...when this mighty person of faith is so incredibly depressed?2.  One issue has to be the physical exhaustion that prevents him from seeing things clearly.  Do you find yourself in this place often?  What does it do for your view of God that He meets Elijah with room service and a nap?3.  When the conversation finally happens...Elijah says that he has "been very jealous for the Lord, the God of hosts".  He has done what he thinks he was supposed to.  What about this view and the situation he is in might be causing the sadness?4.  Elijah also says "the people of Israel have forsaken your covenant, thrown down your altars, and killed your prophets with the sword, and I, even I only, am left, and they seek my life, to take it away.” What do we learn about his sadness from this view?5.  What are God's answers to these statements from Elijah?  What do we learn about God from His response?6.  What do you learn about your own battles with despair from this story?