SCRIPTURE: 2 Kings 2:1-18
OBSERVATION:
What an interesting and amazing passage, the parting of the river twice and the chariots of fire!
This is a passing of the “torch” from one leader to the next, though we strongly sense Elisha’s hesitation to be separated from Elijah, not wanting to talk about Elijah’s leaving and not wanting to leave Elijah’s side. He questions his own abilities to lead (v.9, asking for a double portion, i.e. I need more help that you) and doubts the power of God to part the river for him (v.14).
The chariot and horses of fire and the whirlwind must have been an amazing way to travel. The African slaves used this experience as a prayer, “swing low, sweet chariot, coming for to carry me home!”
This is another example of a miracle that is hard to believe unless you trust that God is able to perform such miracles. If there is a God, and He is all-powerful, then parting the river or sending a chariot of fire is no big deal.
APPLICATION:
This passage reminds me that no leader works forever, they must pass on their task to the next generation. It also reminds me that just as God has worked in and through those who have gone before me, He will also work in and through me.
My confidence should not be in my own abilities but in the anointing of the Spirit on me, and that God will use me to do immeasurably more than all I ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20-21).
Do I expect too little from the Lord? Jesus said that if we believed, we would see even greater things happen (John 14:12). Maybe I (we) do not see more evidence of God’s miraculous power because I do not expect God to do it – I believe it, but I do not expect it!
Maybe I need to ask for a triple portion of the Elijah’s spirit!
PRAYER:
Lord, I believe that You can do amazing things in and through me, but to be honest I do not expect You to. Forgive me for limiting You, and help me to enter each day praying for the filling of Your Spirit, and for a manifestation of Your power in and through me. Amen.