Chuck Smith explores the profound question God posed to Elijah, 'What are you doing here?' highlighting how even the greatest servants of God can find themselves in despair and fear after significant victories. Elijah, fleeing from Jezebel, was in a place of discouragement, feeling isolated and overwhelmed by his circumstances. Smith emphasizes that God often speaks in a still small voice amidst chaos, urging us to recognize our true state and calling. Ultimately, God redirects Elijah towards a new mission, reminding him that he is not alone and that there is still work to be done.

Mike Bickle discusses David's journey through despair while hiding in the cave of Adullam, emphasizing the emotional turmoil he faced after the massacre of the priests at Nob due to his own deception. David, feeling overwhelmed and responsible for the tragedy, learns to trust in God's mercy and develops a steadfast heart despite his circumstances. He gathers a group of distressed and discontented men, transforming them into mighty warriors while navigating the challenges of leadership and personal failure. Bickle highlights the importance of character development through adversity, illustrating how God uses difficult seasons to shape our hearts and deepen our relationship with Him.

David Wilkerson addresses the feelings of despair and trouble through the lens of Psalms 77, written by Asaph, who experienced deep anguish yet remained a faithful prayer warrior. Asaph's struggle with comfort and his cry to God exemplifies the human experience of feeling low, yet he ultimately finds hope in God's deliverance. Wilkerson emphasizes that even in our darkest moments, like Asaph, we can seek the Lord and trust in His ability to restore our joy and peace. The sermon encourages believers to remember that God hears our cries and is present in our struggles, leading us to freedom from fear and despair.

Jim Cymbala delivers a powerful sermon titled 'When You Can't Go On,' emphasizing that even the greatest figures in the Bible, like Elijah, faced moments of despair and breakdown. He recounts Elijah's journey from triumph over the prophets of Baal to fleeing in fear from Jezebel, illustrating how even the strongest can feel overwhelmed. Cymbala encourages listeners to recognize their vulnerabilities and the importance of seeking God's presence and nourishment during tough times. He highlights that God provides strength and direction, even when we feel we cannot go on, reminding us that it's always too soon to quit. The sermon concludes with a call for prayer and support among believers, reinforcing the need for community in times of struggle.

John Gill preaches on the theme of the dejected believer's struggle with despair, drawing from Psalm 40:11. He reflects on the Psalmist's longing for God's presence amidst trials and afflictions, emphasizing the importance of self-encouragement and hope in God. Gill highlights that believers often face dejection due to sin, Satan's temptations, and the hiddenness of God, yet they are called to remember God's past faithfulness and to praise Him for His grace and mercy. He encourages the congregation to maintain faith and hope, assuring them that they will yet praise God, who is the health of their countenance and their God. The sermon serves as a reminder of the eternal hope and comfort found in God, especially in times of distress.

C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the hope found in the promise of the Sun of Righteousness, who brings healing and light even in the darkest times. He reassures believers that despite the deepening darkness, despair is unnecessary as the dawn of Christ's righteousness is near. Spurgeon highlights that Jesus embodies both justice and mercy, ensuring that our deliverance is safe and righteous. He encourages the faithful to maintain reverence for God, assuring them that the night of sorrow will be brief and followed by joy and healing. Ultimately, he calls for patience and trust in the Lord's timing, as the Sun will surely rise.

Mike Bickle emphasizes the transformative power of renewing our minds as outlined in Romans 12:1-2, urging believers to present themselves as living sacrifices to God. He highlights five critical truths that empower individuals to overcome despair and cultivate healthy kingdom relationships, linking these truths to the mercy of God. Bickle reassures that despite our weaknesses, our offerings are holy and pleasing to God, and that His will is good, pleasing, and perfect. He encourages believers to reject worldly standards and instead evaluate their lives through the lens of God's mercy, fostering confidence in their relationship with Him. Ultimately, Bickle calls for a mindset shift that aligns with God's perspective, leading to emotional and spiritual transformation.

David Wilkerson addresses the struggles many Christians, particularly the youth, face at their breaking point, feeling overwhelmed by societal pressures, personal crises, and mental health challenges. He emphasizes that even prominent figures in faith experience moments of despair, echoing the sentiments of Paul and King David in their cries for help. Wilkerson encourages believers to hold on to their faith, reminding them that God loves them and desires their trust, despite the trials they face. He asserts that there are no shortcuts to overcoming despair, but faith in God's promises is essential. Ultimately, he reassures that God will fulfill His Word, even when His timing is unclear.