Growing Multigenerational Faithಮಾದರಿ

So often when we discuss spiritual mentoring, the emphasis is on the qualities and actions of the mentor. In this passage, however, we can also see two important qualities of a successful mentee.

I can’t help but feel a little amused and sympathetic toward Elisha as he’s facing the imminent departure of his teacher, Elijah. They both know Elijah will soon be gone, but neither seems to know the “when” or the “where” of his departure. Three times, Elijah is directed by God to travel to a different location (2 Kings 2:2, 4, and 6), and he tells Elisha not to accompany him. Each time, Elisha’s response is, “No way. I’m going with you.” (paraphrase).

Deliberately disobeying a direct instruction doesn’t seem like a very “disciple-y” thing to do. Nevertheless, Elisha refuses to be left behind, illustrating the first quality of a successful follower: Dogged determination.

Continuing with the story… after traveling around for a bit, Elijah asks his mentee what he can do for Elisha before he departs. Elisha replies, “Please let me inherit a double share of your spirit and become your successor.” Elijah’s response is, “Whoa, that’s a lot to ask!” (paraphrase). Elisha wants to continue in the work Elijah began in an even more powerful capacity. This interaction shows the second quality of a successful follower: Audacious ambition.

Elisha demonstrates that dogged determination to follow and audacious ambition to achieve God’s will are two vital characteristics of a successful follower.

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Questions to Consider

• Since we are all followers of Christ, which of these two characteristics resonates with you?
• Do you pursue Christ with dogged determination?
• Are you audaciously ambitious to achieve God’s will for your life?

Actions to Take

• Do something outside your comfort zone to build your determination.
• Write down a God-sized hope and ambition you have for yourself.

Prayer to Make

Lord Jesus, too often I want to give up too quickly. Give me the will to stick it out and not give up. Put your dreams in my heart and give me the courage to pursue them without giving up. Amen.