BOLDNESS IN FAITH
Bernadette Keene
Today’s Scripture: “When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, “Ask what I shall do for you, before I am taken from you.” And Elisha said, ‘Please let there be a double portion of your spirit on me,’” (2 Kings 2:9, ESV).
Theme: Be bold in your request for mentorship or spiritual growth.
MENTORSHIP
In today’s Scripture, we read about the boldness of Elisha as he asks for a double portion of his master’s spirit before Elijah is taken away. If we go back to verses 1-6, we see that not only was Elisha bold, but he was also very persistent in the time leading up to his request. Knowing that Elijah would soon be taken to heaven, Elisha stayed by Elijah’s side, even after being asked three times to stay behind. In verse 9, Elijah tells Elisha to “Ask what I shall do for you, before I am taken from you.” In verse 10, he tells Elisha that he has “asked a hard thing; yet, if you see me as I am being taken from you, it shall be so for you, but If you do not see me, it shall not be so.” As the chariots of fire separate the two of them, Elisha declares to the Lord what he saw. Because of Elisha’s persistence and boldness, he was able to witness the miracle of his master being taken to heaven by way of a fiery chariot, but he also received the double portion of Elijah’s spirit, as requested, becoming his successor.
SPIRITUAL BOLDNESS
Esther highlights another example of spiritual boldness. The challenges that Esther faced, and her responses, are shining examples of courage. Imagine as a young girl what it might have felt like to be rounded up, taken away, and prepped for the king’s harem, while concealing your nationality and family background. Then, before you know it, you are the queen! Before she can get settled, here comes Mordecai with a big ask. He shares Hamans’s plot to destroy the Jewish people, prompting Esther to act, calling for prayer and fasting. She then risks her life to approach the king and ask for his help. The bold actions of this young girl moved the kings’ heart with favor, saving her and her people.
Make It Personal: While most of us will never see a flaming chariot streaking though the sky or approach a king to plead our case, God gives us opportunities in our everyday lives to be bold. When God calls you out of your comfort zone, what will you do? Ask God to show you how to be bold in your faith by being vulnerable, acting on your convictions, speaking up when everyone else remains silent, or by sharing your faith and the love of Jesus with a hurting world.
Pray: Lord, I pray that I may preach the wonderful news of God’s kingdom with boldness and “also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel,” (Ephesians 6:19-20, ESV). When You lead us to speak out or step out, give us the courage and boldness we need to follow through. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Read: Hebrews 4:16, Mark 15:43, Acts 28:31, Proverbs 28:1
Weekly Memory Verse: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20, ESV