Faithful on Fridays Blog

Even though Elijah is nearing the end of his life God isn’t finished with him just yet. One last miracle is recorded that began with an angelic visitation giving him the assignment. Ahab is dead as prophesied and his son Ahaziah has ascended to the throne, but there’s a problem. This pagan king of Israel, Jezebel’s son, suffered a fall and didn’t fully recuperate, consequently, sent messengers to inquire of the demonic god Ba’al Zebub, regarding his recovery. Interestingly, Jesus dealt with the same demonic influence in Luke 11:14-23.

Elijah came onto the scene with a question: “Is Elohim not in Israel anymore?” Obviously, Ahaziah didn’t know about his parent’s past encounters with this prophet and heard God’s Word: “You won’t recover.” Here’s the big mistake; he ordered Elijah to come to him. This prophet only takes orders from his Captain, Elohim, and called down fire not once, but twice, on the king’s captain and his company who died instantly. Boldly, the king sent a third captain with another company of soldiers who fell down at Elijah’s feet begging for mercy for himself and his men. He called on the prophet’s value of life being precious and God saw his humility allowing Elijah to go to the king and declare his death. Ahab’s royal, yet demonic, line was finished since there was no heir.

That story reminds us that we need to be prepared to stand whenever and for whatever situation we find ourselves faced with: His Word and promises are enough. Be encouraged as you watch the people of the world and your government change turning from Jesus, the Word, to pagan belief systems. Your strength comes from Him:

… I will know that you are standing together with one spirit and one purpose, fighting together for the faith, which is the Good News. Philippians 1:27b

Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved. Philippians 4:1

… that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God. Colossians 4:12b

Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. 1 Corinthians 16:13

As a mentor, Elijah passed the anointing of the Spirit to his mentee, Elisha, who continued moving in the signs and wonders of the Spirit (2 Kings 2). It’s a great story of the double-anointing but remember, Jesus is our Mentor passing the same anointing of the Spirit to believers who continue to represent Him to the world. We have all we need, His authority and power, to fulfill His assignments since the Spirit dwells in us permanently. 

But the anointing that you received from Him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But as His anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie—just as it has taught you, abide in Him. 1 John 2:27 ESV