OCTOBER 3, 2 Kings 2:1-9

Elijah was Elisha’s mentor. But, the Bible says that the time for God to take Elijah to heaven had come. Elisha and all the other prophets under the leadership of Elijah knew about it. Elisha wanted to share Elijah’s last moments on earth and to personally bid him farewell.

From Gilgal, God sent Elijah to Bethel, Jericho and Jordan. Perhaps it was to encourage the prophets in these cities. Interestingly, at each of these cities, Elijah told Elisha to stay behind when he was about to leave for the next city. But each time, Elisha refused to be left behind and insisted on accompanying Elijah. He passed the test and proved himself to be faithful to God’s call. He obeyed God’s call for him to be a prophet. When they reached the river Jordan, Elijah parted the waters by striking it with his mantle and they both walked across. Fifty prophets stood a distance away watching their every move.

Elijah then turned to ask his disciple what he could do for him before being taken away. Elisha answered, “I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me.” What is this double portion of Elijah’s spirit that Elisha had requested? Elisha had requested that he be given the ability to foretell and forthtell as a prophet just like Elijah.These are needed for the prophetic ministry. He did not ask for any material things. He had asked for things that help him serve God better.

We can learn from Elisha on what we should pray for. Underline the best thing to ask God for, in each of the following lists:

1. A new big house, Latest computer games, Peace in the home

2. The love of friends, The love of neighbours, The love of God

3. A big birthday party, An outing to the zoo, A friend to know Jesus

4. High marks for exams, A famous school, A true and faithful church

Thought: The Spirit of God is better than any riches in this world.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to seek after spiritual things that count for eternity rather than temporal things on this earth. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.