The Mandate of Elisha

The Elijah/Elisha association was similar to Jesus’ mentoring relationship with his disciples. Like Elisha, they had to drop everything to follow their mentor. But they soon discovered that by loving Jesus more than others, they gained a greater capacity to love others.

Elisha and the disciples learned that following God’s will is worth infinitely more than money. Jesus emphasized just that when he told the Pharisees, who loved money, that “What people value highly is detestable in God’s sight” (Luke 16:15). Money and achievements will disappear in the end, but relationships will endure forever.

The one who wins in life is not the one who has the most toys, but the one who has the best relationships.

Elisha replaced Elijah as God’s prophet in Israel. Elisha ministered to common people of many nations. His life illustrates the amazing impact of a servant-leader who is fully committed to God.

Elisha boldly asked Elijah for a double portion of the older prophet’s spirit. In doing so, he assumed the position of Elijah’s firstborn son. God granted his request, and Elisha picked up the cloak that dropped down as Elijah was being carried up to heaven. Thus, God empowered Elisha to accomplish a miraculous ministry.

We each have a calling and a mandate and to each of us, God provides a good mentor to teach us how to do the things we are called to do. We have to remain teachable so we become effective in our calling.