Day 167 - Miracles of Elisha: A Day of Divine Wonders (2 Kings 2, 2 Kings 4) - Year 2
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TODAY'S READING:

• 2 Kings 2, 2 Kings 4

WORD OF THE DAY:

-  Give

Today, we delve into a series of miraculous events during a time when many had strayed from God, yet He continued to work through a faithful remnant. Witnessing these acts of divine intervention is truly exciting and inspiring.

2 Kings 2 recounts the miraculous story of the prophet Elijah being taken to heaven and his disciple Elisha inheriting a double portion of his spirit. As they traveled from Gilgal to Bethel to Jericho, Elijah repeatedly instructed Elisha to stay behind, but Elisha insisted on accompanying him, saying, "As surely as the Lord lives and as you live, I will not leave you."

Upon reaching the Jordan River, Elijah struck the water with his cloak, parting it so they could cross on dry ground. Once across, Elijah asked Elisha what he could do for him before being taken away. Elisha requested a double portion of Elijah's spirit. As they continued, a chariot of fire with horses of fire appeared, separating them, and Elijah was taken up to heaven in a whirlwind. Elisha saw this and cried out, "My father, my father! The chariots and horsemen of Israel!" Elisha then picked up Elijah's cloak and struck the Jordan River, parting the waters just as Elijah had, signifying that Elijah's spirit now rested on him.

Elisha's first miracles included purifying the water supply in Jericho and cursing a group of young men who mocked him, resulting in two bears mauling 42 of them.

2 Kings 4 shows God's power through Elisha in various personal and community miracles.

- The Widow’s Oil: A poor widow sought Elisha's help to save her sons from slavery. Elisha instructed her to gather as many jars as possible and pour her small amount of oil into them. Miraculously, the oil continued to flow until all the jars were full, providing enough to pay her debts and sustain her family.

- The Shunammite Woman’s Son: A wealthy couple built a room for Elisha. The woman, childless, was promised a son by Elisha, and she bore a child the following year. The child later became ill and died, but Elisha prayed to God and restored the boy’s life.

- Famine in Gilgal: Elisha purified a pot of stew that was poisoned, making it safe to eat.

- Feeding a Hundred People: Elisha multiplied a small amount of bread and grain to feed a hundred people, with leftovers remaining, anticipating Jesus' miracle of feeding the 5,000.

Word of the Day: Given

Definition: Freely transfer the possession of something to someone.

Throughout these stories, we see many instances of God giving abundantly:

- Prophecies were given about Elijah’s ascension.

- Judgment was given to the youth who mocked Elisha.

- Provision was given to a widow through the miracle of the oil.

- Life was given back to the Shunammite’s son.

- Miracles were given to purify poisoned stew and multiply bread.

The most remarkable gift was the double portion of Elijah’s spirit given to Elisha. This double portion was traditionally reserved for the firstborn, symbolizing a significant inheritance and responsibility. Just as Elisha received Elijah’s spirit, we can seek and embrace the unique blessings God has given us.

Scriptural Insight:

- Deuteronomy 21:17: “But he shall acknowledge the firstborn, the son of the unloved, by giving him a double portion of all that he has…”

- Isaiah 61:7: “Instead of your shame you will receive a double portion…”

Reflect on what God has given you. Embrace your blessings without comparing them to others. Shift your focus from others' abundance to your unique gifts and responsibilities.

We must recognize and be grateful for God’s continual generosity, understanding that He gives us everything we need to live a life of faith and purpose.