The Lord said to him, Go back the way you came, and go to the Desert of Damascus. When you get there, anoint Hazael king over Aram. Also, anoint Jehu son of Nimshi king over Israel, and anoint Elisha son of Shaphat from Abel Meholah to succeed you as prophet.
Jehu will put to death any who escape the sword of Hazael, and Elisha will put to death any who escape the sword of Jehu. Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel—all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and whose mouths have not kissed him. 1 Kings 19:15-18
God was preparing to give Elijah rest from his ministry and a continuing legacy. Elijah had defeated the prophets of Baal single-handed. Though it was a great victory, he immediately felt alone and despondent. God answered by appointing Elisha to be part of Elijah’s ministry and legacy. What a gracious response from God! He does that for us too. When we feel lonely in ministry, He sends people to build us up and encourage us. I love the saying ‘half the fun of fishin’, is who yer fishin’ with’. Isn’t that true!?
Who has God put in my ministry life to make the fishing fun? Thankfully, a handful of people that I love and they love me.
God, as Maureen and I enjoy this Friday, day off – I pray that You will direct the activities of the day and we will experience a good balance of rest and also restoration because You are in our lives.
