OCTOBER 2, 1 Kings 19:19-21 

Elijah obeyed God’s command and went to Abelmeholah to look for Elisha. When he went past Elisha, he cast his mantle over Elisha. This signified the choice of Elisha as his successor. Of course, it was God who had chosen Elisha. It is little wonder that Elisha did not hesitate but readily ran after Elijah. God never makes a mistake. He will always make the perfect choice of persons for His work.

When Elijah first spotted Elisha, he was plowing his father’s land. He was working on one of twelve yokes of oxen. A yoke is a large wooden instrument that binds two oxen together. As there were twelve pairs of oxen, Elisha’s father must have been a wealthy man who provided Elisha with a comfortable life. So, why was Elisha so willing to follow Elijah into such a tough ministry? Notice how considerate and good a son Elisha was. He bade farewell to his parents showing gratitude, respect, love and care. He even prepared a feast for his family and rejoiced with them before he left.

What can we learn from Elisha’s behaviour? Obviously, he honoured his parents. Above that, he honoured God. He had a heart willing to serve Him anytime and anywhere. We can tell this from his prompt response to God’s calling. We also learn that God chooses whoever He wishes to serve Him. Elisha and Elijah were from very different backgrounds but both were chosen by God to be His prophets.

Answer this question.

What was Elisha doing when God called him?

    _______________________________________________

Thought: Do I honour my parents?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, teach me to be like Elisha in honouring my parents. Teach me to be grateful, considerate, kind, respectful, pray for them and obey them. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.