Elisha

A Prophet with Heart

His name sounds a lot like that of his mentor, Elijah. Both prophets struggled against the idolatrous Baal cult; both wielded great influence over the leaders of their day. But they differed markedly in how they carried out their spiritual duties.

The prophet Elisha relied more on miracles than did his fiery mentor, Elijah, and a greater number of his signs and wonders demonstrated God’s mercy and gentleness. The Bible says Elisha performed twice as many miracles as Elijah and more wonders than any Old Testament character other than Moses.

But while these two men differed in their methods, they pursued the same objective: to turn their people from idolatry and bring them back to the true and living God.

In a way, the differences between Elijah and Elisha reflect the complex nature of the God they served. Elijah most often proclaimed God’s judgment and wrath, while Elisha tended to declare His love and grace. Together they provide a human illustration of Romans 11:22, which urges us to “consider the goodness and severity of God.”

The life of Elisha demonstrates that God uses leaders of all kinds, both those who emphasize His judgment and wrath and those who draw men and women to Himself through tender demonstrations of divine love and grace.

Taken from The Maxwell Leadership Bible