In 1993, Bill and Susie Mosca founded an essay contest. The winner received the couple’s bed and breakfast facility. Janice Sage’s entry took first place and she acquired the Center Lovell Inn and Restaurant. After 22 years of hosting guests, maintaining buildings, and managing finances, Janice wanted to retire. Because, as she said, “There are a lot of talented people that . . . . just can’t go out and buy an inn like this,” she also decided to give it away to a worthy person through an essay contest.
When Elijah neared the end of his time on earth, God told him to anoint Elisha as his worthy replacement (1 Kings 19:16). The young apprentice had learned much from the more experienced prophet. Eventually, Elijah asked his trainee what he could do for him before leaving for heaven. Elisha replied, “Please let me inherit a double share of your spirit and become your successor” (2 Kings 2:9). Soon a chariot of fire appeared and drove between the two men. A whirlwind swept Elijah up into heaven.
After a few moments of deep distress, Elisha grabbed Elijah’s cloak which Elijah had left behind and approached the Jordan River. He slung the coat onto the water’s surface and cried out to God. The river divided and he walked across. A group of prophets observed this and exclaimed, “Elijah’s spirit rests upon Elisha!” (2 Kings 2:15). The younger prophet was ready to move forward in his ministry!
This story shows how one passionate servant of God passed on his ministry to another. As we consider the people God has placed in our lives, there are some whom we can mentor and encourage in their faith. He can use us to grow the faith of the next generation!
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Genesis 24:28-67
More:
Read Psalm 145:4 and consider how one generation of believers can encourage the next.
Next:
How does Paul compare with Elijah as an enthusiastic servant of God and as a mentor? Is it important to learn about the lives of other believers who lived in previous generations? Why or why not?
Gary Shultz on January 15, 2016 at 6:05 am
Since there is some limit to space, I see great differences between Paul and Elijah and yes, there are similarities. I need to pull together with you, so history does give us that back drop to move forward and make disciples and pour our lives into the lives of other. As in the event of both men, (Paul and Elijah) their witness and actions complimented the work of God’s Spirit. May we work to disciple others. Thank you Jennifer.
jennifer benson schuldt on January 15, 2016 at 12:08 pm
Gary–
It’s interesting that Paul–through his writings–is still mentoring us today! Although Paul performed miracles just as Elijah did (Acts 19:11-12), Paul’s ideas and letters of encouragement contain many of “instructions” for the Christian life. Both Paul and Elijah were filled with God’s power, and both effective in passing their faith and knowledge of God to their proteges. Thanks for posting today.
Jen
jangillies on January 15, 2016 at 7:40 am
Always gives me food for thought.
gagirllive on January 15, 2016 at 8:09 am
I think this is what it means to “make disciples”…the outpouring of our lives and love for Christ into others… taking another under your wings, so to speak. Our work is to teach, model, and share. It is the Spirit’s work to transform. Good reminder, Jennifer.
jennifer benson schuldt on January 15, 2016 at 12:16 pm
We do need to remember that God’s Spirit has the power, not us. All we can do is be faithful to do what God wants us to do–to make His name known–and then He does the rest of the work within hearts and minds. “…It is not by force nor by strength, but by my Spirit, says the LORD…” (Zechariah 4:6).
Tom Felten on January 15, 2016 at 8:19 am
I’m reminded of what Jesus said to His disciples: “Go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:19-20). It’s evident we’re to “make disciples” (not converts) and “teach” those who come to Jesus, but it’s great encouragement that Jesus is with us—we don’t do this alone!
jennifer benson schuldt on January 15, 2016 at 12:00 pm
Hi Tom,
There is more depth to the idea of making a disciple, not simply a convert. God wants us to have real relationships with new believers–to welcome them into community, to nurture their faith through “milk” at first, then “meat” later when they can handle it. They need to hear stories from our lives which demonstrate God’s power. I’m reminded of how the Israelites were supposed to teach their children about God’s past provision–God knew that their children would need to know all that He was capable of, and so much of that was captured in the Exodus from Egypt, and His help in the wilderness. May God show us how to communicate His faithfulness to the next generation!