Today's passage from the Bible In a Year Reading Plan is 1 Kings 22:50, 2 Chronicles 21:1-4, 2 Kings 8:16-22, 2 Chronicles 21:5-7, 2 Kings 2
It's so refreshing, in the midst of so many kings who “did evil in the eyes of the Lord,” to read about those so faithful.
Elisha was completely submitted to God & his role as a prophet. In 2 Kings 2:1-6, Elijah’s on his final “tour” to meet with the schools of prophets (seemingly knowing that his end was near). Elijah repeatedly tells Elisha that he should stay back, but Elisha is unwilling. Elisha wanted to learn as much as he could while Elijah was still around.
Some commentaries even suggest that Elijah offering Elisha to stay back was somewhat a test to Elisha's commitment & Elisha's determination to stay with Elijah was the indication of his heart.
Elisha was repeatedly told that the Lord was going to take Elijah from him & Elisha’s response was “Yes, I know, but do not speak of this.” To me, he was saying “I'm not going to think of that right now. He is still here & I need to learn what I can while there's still time.”
Elijah then asks if he can do anything for Elisha before he is taken. Elisha's response in not for money or recognition or even respect from the other prophets. He asks for a double portion of his spirit.
Elisha didn't want to be more powerful than Elijah, rather, he wanted to accomplish more for God.
What an example set before us; to follow faithfully, committed to God fully & to be focused on him. Elijah didn't get to the point where he said he knew what he needed to know & could take it from here, rather he learnt as much as he could for as long as he could.
We will never completely “arrive” in our Christian walk. Let's keep seeking.
2 comments:
Accomplishing what we can for God should be our goal. Elijah recognized that and so did Elisha.
This made me think of our kids following us. Most likely they will adopt the values we demonstrate in our daily lives. Do we demonstrate that it is more important to accomplish God's agenda over ours?
I loved Elisha's dedication, determination, and loyalty - all traits we should aspire to, particularly when it comes to our Christian walk and our faith and trust in God.
It was sad to read about Jehoram, and that the influence of his wife led him astray. A huge reminder to pray for our children as they grow, that they will look for a spouse with a strong faith and heart for God.
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