A leader transition in the Old Testament
Into this situation, God sends what are called prophets. Elijah is one of these prophets, and his job is really tough. As Elijah’s life draws to a close, Elisha is supposed to take over as prophet. He was called to this some time before (1 Kings 19:19-21).
For Elijah, the time has come to leave. Elisha is supposed to stay behind to look after the rest of the company of the prophets. But Elisha wants to stay with his predecessor until the very last moment.
As the two of them cross the Jordan, Elisha makes his decision. He truly wants to become Elijah’s successor, and he asks Elijah for a special empowerment to do it. It’s a safeguard and a bold step at the same time. Elisha wants to be officially recognized as heir to the prophetic office.
And then the moment comes: Elisha is on his own. There’s no great, well-known prophet around anymore to tell him what to do and what God’s will is. Elisha himself is now responsible for what he does and how he acts, and for carrying out God’s mission to Israel.
To sum up:
- God has his plan for Elisha, but he doesn’t force him into anything
- God waits for Elisha’s decision
- Elijah’s example surely played a big part in helping Elisha make the “right” decision.
Standing on the shoulders of giants
- Am I aware that followers of Christ are always also successors to the Christians who came before them, and that they can’t deny or ignore their legacy? Such as the children’s ministry leaders who came before me?
- Have I consciously decided to start serving as a volunteer?
- Have I consciously asked God to equip me with gifts, strength and love so that I can serve in this role?
- Am I paying attention to when and where God lays a successor on my heart who can and will carry on my work?
- Am I an example to the children and teenagers that guides them toward wise decisions?
Thank you for investing in children and teenagers as a volunteer!
