Definition: And the angel of the LORD came again the second time, and touched him, and said, Arise [and] eat; because the journey [is] too great for thee.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from 1 Kings 19:7. It’s a really important verse that speaks about a man named Elijah and his incredible journey. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Elijah is traveling through the wilderness – a really tough place – and he feels incredibly tired, weak, and overwhelmed. He’s lost and doesn’t know where to go. What the Angel Says: An angel of the LORD appears to him. And the angel says: “It’s too much for you.” Let's unpack it further: “And the angel of the LORD came again…” : This is a recurring figure in the Bible – God’s messengers. “…and touched him…” : This is a metaphorical touch. It doesn't mean a physical touch like a handshake. It means the angel is offering comfort and encouragement to Elijah. "...and said, Arise [and] eat; because the journey [is] too great for thee.” : This is the key part! “Arise” : This word means “rise up” or “get up”. It’s a call to action – to move forward. “Eat” : It's not about eating food, but rather about taking action . It’s about starting the journey and beginning to push through the difficulty. “…because the journey is too great for thee.” : This emphasizes that the task ahead is incredibly challenging and demanding. It highlights the magnitude of the problem Elijah faces. What it Means on a Deeper Level: This verse speaks to several important ideas: God’s Presence: The angel is reminding Elijah that God is with him, offering support and strength. Faith and Perseverance: It’s urging Elijah to not give up. It’s saying that the challenge isn’t insurmountable, but it requires effort and dedication. The Importance of Action: Simply being there isn't enough. Elijah needs to do something – start moving forward and taking steps. In short, this verse is a message of encouragement and a reminder that even the greatest challenges can be overcome with God’s help and perseverance. --- Would you like me to: Explain it in more detail? Connect it to other Bible stories? Discuss its significance in a particular context (like Elijah’s journey)?