Spiritual Companions
12-3-04

In a recent series of messages, we considered Elijah as he experienced great victory on Mount Carmel but was then overcome with fear and loneliness. We saw how God provided comfort by first sending an angel and then through the gentle whisper of His presence (1 Kings 19:5-13). But Elijah clearly revealed some long term Spiritual needs which could not be ignored; "I have been very zealous for the Lord God Almighty...{but} I am the only one left" (1 Kings 19:14).

Elijah felt alone in his devotion to God and alone in his ministry. This loneliness was effecting his judgement as well as his ability to persevere under stress. He needed a Spiritual companion who would encourage him and walk by his side. God recognized this need and sent him Elisha; "anoint Elisha son of Shaphat from Abel Meholah to succeed you as prophet" (1 Kings 19:16). Elijah was not being replaced; rather, given the many "opportunities" for future discouragement, God provided someone to share the burden, provide encouragement, and be trained for future ministry.

Elisha was in the field plowing with a team of oxen when Elijah first called him to follow. Elisha's response was immediate and decisive, and he was devoted to Elijah for the remainder of his ministry.

1 Kings 19:21
"He took his yoke of oxen and slaughtered them. He burned the plowing equipment to cook the meat and gave it to the people, and they ate. Then he set out to follow Elijah and became his attendant."

God never intended for us to go into battle alone. While He is always at our side, ready to intervene, His Word also directs us to draw upon the strength of others; "Encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness" (Hebrews 3:13).

Immediately after creating the first man, God said; "It is not good for the man to be alone" (Genesis 2:18). We were created to be people who need one another; "Two are better than one...if one falls down, his friend can help him up" (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). Jesus demonstrated this wisdom as He sent messengers to proclaim that the Kingdom of God is near; "the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them TWO BY TWO ahead of Him" (Luke 10:1). Difficult tasks require mutual support and encouragement.

As we travel down God's path, let's listen to His counsel and not walk alone. Let's entrust our lives to our Heavenly Father and seek other believers who will encourage us to remain in His presence and aligned with His perfect will. Let's pray that God would bless us with courage and strength...and also with an abundance of committed Spiritual companions.

Have A Great Day!