This Experience Must Come

"Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven. And Elisha... saw him no more" (2 Kings 2:11-12).


It is not wrong for you to depend on your "Elijah" for as long as God gives him to you. But remember that the time will come when you must leave and will no longer be your guide and your leader, because God does not intend for him to say. Even the thought of that causes you to say, "I cannot continue without my "Elijah.'" Yet God says you must continue.

Alone at Your "Jordan" (2:14). The Jordan River represents the type of separation where you have to fellowship with anyone else, and where no one else can take your responsibility from you. You now have to put to the test what you learned when you were with your "Elijah." You have been to the Jordan over and over again with Elijah, but now you are facing it alone. There is no use in saying that you cannot go- the experience is here, and you must go. If you truly want to know whether or not God is the God your faith believes Him to be, then go through your "Jordan" alone.

Alone at Your "Jericho" (2:15). Jericho represents the place where you have seen your "Elijah." do great things. Yet when you come alone to your "Jericho," you have a strong reluctance to take the initiative and trust in God, wanting instead, for someone else to take it for you. But if you remain true to what you learned while with your "Elijah," you will receive a sign, as Elisha did, that God is with you.

Alone at Your "Bethel" (2:23). At your "Bethel" you will find yourself at your wits' end but at the beginning of God's wisdom. When you come to your wit's end and feel inclined to panic- don't! Stand true to God and He will bring out His truth in a way that will make your life and expression‍‍ of worship. Put into practice what you learned while with your "Elijah"- use his mantle and pray (see 2:13-14). Make a determination to trust in God, and do not even look Elijah anymore.


[from "My Utmost for His Highest" Oswald Chambers]