1. The prophet Elisha summoned a man from the company of the prophets and said to him, "Tuck your cloak into your belt, take this flask of oil with you and go to Ramoth Gilead. 2. When you get there, look for Jehu son of Jehoshaphat, the son of Nimshi. Go to him, get him away from his companions and take him into an inner room. 3. Then take the flask and pour the oil on his head and declare, 'This is what the LORD says: I anoint you king over Israel.' Then open the door and run; don't delay!"
This Biblical story goes on to reveal more from the lessons of the kings, but I want to concentrate on Elisha's part. He had a word to share and picked one of the company of prophets to carry it out by proclaiming that word to Jehu. The Lord tells Elisha to do something, and he sees to it that it is done.
Secondly, Elisha had the desire to tell others. Part of that, of course, is related to obedience. A good vessel of God is one who receives a word from the Lord and passes it on. It is not enough to be personally fed and comforted by God. It is his desire to affect others with a passion and holiness for God. He is not concerned for his own glory or prestige.
Elisha uses a student who actually does the anointing for the new king and proclaims the prophetic word to Jehu. Elisha was willing to train another and let others share in the ministry. It is later in Elisha’s life so perhaps he was physically unable to get around like he did before. It also indicates he doesn't have to be the one to do the anointing or speaking for God to do His work. Another can do it as well, if he is trained and has been sent. Elisha directed the younger one, just as Elijah the Tishbite did for him. Jehu is anointed and is one of the most zealous kings for getting rid of Baal worship and false idols.
Sharing God's word is important. Emphasizing that for others is significant. Elisha meditated on the law of God and was able to educate others in it. God had given His law to the nation and all were under it. All could study it; all could delight in it; but blessed is the one who does it.
When we talk about the reputation of a godly person, we are talking about a person’s character and integrity. Someone who has proven through the problems and struggles of life that God is faithful and they trust Him completely.
Jay Kesler was feeling like he could never match the super-saint status of people who had great reputations. His director shared something profound. "Did you ever realize what would happen if the Lord insisted on perfect men and women to carry out His work? Nothing would ever get done, because none of us would ever measure up. We are all flawed instruments If we wait to be good enough to serve Him, we will never serve Him."
Application: Ponder this: “The reputation Elisha received was as one willing to follow where God led.”
Lord, God work in me that I my have a passion and holiness for You.
