Topic: II Kings 2:2 [John Hagee Devotional 24 April 2020]

But Elisha said, ‘As the Lord lives, and as your soul lives, I will not leave you!’

Elijah and Elisha – the old prophet and his young successor – labored together in Israel. As Elijah’s life neared its end, he visited four significant places.

He traveled to Gilgal, the place where Joshua circumcised the Israelite men before crossing into the Promised Land. The covenant required the shedding of blood and the rolling away of transgressions. Our Gilgal occurred on Golgotha where Jesus’ flesh was pierced, His blood was shed, and our sins were rolled away. Elijah urged Elisha to stay, but he refused.

They traveled on to Bethel, the house of God – where all newborns are nurtured and the saints are strengthened. When we plant ourselves in His house, we will flourish (Psalm 92:13). Even though Elijah insisted he remain, Elisha persevered.

They reached Jericho, a place of battle. As God’s children, we also engage in spiritual warfare. We endure hardships, knowing that no weapon formed against us will prosper.

Leaving Jericho, they encountered the Jordan River, the symbol of death’s rising tide. Elijah struck the water with his mantle. The river parted, and they crossed on dry land.

When we accept Jesus, He refuses to leave our sides. He walks us through every trial and every triumph. When we reach Jordan’s banks, He will usher us into everlasting joy. He will never leave us.

Blessing:

May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you and give you His peace. Jesus will never leave you nor forsake you. He is a Friend who sticks closer than a brother to the very end.

Today’s Bible Reading:

Old Testament

Judges 2:10-3:31

New Testament

Luke 22:14-34

Psalms & Proverbs

Psalm 92:1-93:5

Proverbs 14:1-2