Faithful FatherhoodSample

Staying in the Pocket: A Devotional for Men

In Matthew 28, Jesus commands us to “go and make disciples of all nations,” a mission that is both daunting and deeply rewarding. But He doesn’t leave us without a guide. Throughout Scripture, God provides examples of mentoring relationships—Abraham and Lot, Moses and Joshua, Paul and Timothy—where faith is nurtured and passed on. One of the most profound examples is the relationship between Elijah and Elisha.

Elijah’s story is one of boldness and obedience. In 1 Kings 18, Elijah stands alone against 450 prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, trusting God to send fire from heaven. His courage reminds us that when we stand with God, we are never truly alone. Yet even Elijah, after such a decisive victory, wrestled with fear and discouragement as he fled from Jezebel. God ministered to Elijah in his weakness, equipping him for what came next—a powerful mentoring relationship with Elisha.

In 1 Kings 19, Elijah finds Elisha plowing a field with twelve oxen. Elijah places his cloak over Elisha, symbolizing the passing of his prophetic mantle. Initially, Elisha hesitates, wanting to say goodbye to his family. But then he makes a radical decision: he sacrifices the oxen, burns the plowing equipment, and leaves his old life behind to follow God’s calling. This decisive act of surrender shows us what it means to commit fully to God’s mission.

Just as Elijah mentored Elisha, we are called to guide others. Mentorship requires us to invest time, wisdom, and spiritual encouragement into the lives of those who come after us. When Elijah was taken up to heaven in a whirlwind, Elisha boldly asked for a double portion of his spirit. God honored this request, and Elisha performed even greater miracles than his mentor.

This story challenges us to “stay in the pocket.” In football, a quarterback must trust his offensive line to create a pocket of protection while he steps forward to make the play. Similarly, God calls us to stay in the pocket of His provision and protection. He equips us to make bold decisions and carry out His plans, trusting that His Spirit goes before us, fighting unseen battles and strengthening us for the task at hand.

As men, our mission is clear: make disciples. To do this effectively, we must:

1. Be bold in our faith: Like Elijah on Mount Carmel, trust God’s power even if you don’t understand or it feels like we’re standing alone.

2. Be willing to sacrifice: Elisha left everything behind to follow Elijah. What are you holding onto or afraid of that might hinder your obedience?

3. Be intentional about mentorship: Find a spiritual mentor to encourage and guide you. Also look for someone to pour into, passing on the wisdom and faith God has given you.

4. Trust God’s provision: Stay in the pocket of His grace, stepping forward in courage as He leads you each step of the way.

5. Pray for a double portion: Seek God’s Spirit to equip you, your mentor, and those you mentor for even greater works in His name.

Let’s follow Elijah and Elisha’s example, seeking to leave a legacy of faith. May we be men who both seek mentorship and mentor others to do even greater things for the kingdom of God, trusting that He will work powerfully through us for His glory.