How can we apply Elisha's example of leadership during crises in our lives? Setting the Scene • A severe famine grips the land. • Hungry disciples gather around Elisha at Gilgal, looking to their mentor for direction. • Elisha calmly instructs, “Put on the large pot and cook stew for these men” (2 Kings 4:38). Core Verse “Now Elisha returned to Gilgal, and there was a famine in the land. While the sons of the prophets were sitting before him, he said to his servant, ‘Put on the large pot and cook stew for these men.’” (2 Kings 4:38) Observations on Elisha’s Leadership • Swift Initiative — He doesn’t dwell on scarcity; he immediately gives practical orders. • Servant-Hearted — He focuses on feeding others first. • Faith-Anchored — Though supplies are meager, he trusts God’s provision (vv. 40-41). • Calm Assurance — His composure steadies anxious students. • Collaborative — He involves his servant and the community, multiplying effectiveness. Timeless Principles 1. Face crises head-on instead of ignoring them (see Psalm 46:1). 2. Lead by serving—meeting tangible needs opens hearts to spiritual truth (Mark 10:45). 3. Act on faith before resources appear; obedience invites God’s miracle (Philippians 4:19). 4. Maintain calm; fear is contagious, but so is peace (Isaiah 26:3). 5. Engage others; shared tasks build unity and resilience (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). Practical Steps for Today • Identify the immediate need in any crisis—physical, emotional, or spiritual—and address it first. • Offer what you have (time, skills, influence); God enlarges small beginnings (John 6:9-13). • Speak faith-filled words that redirect focus from the problem to God’s sufficiency. • Keep a steady routine of Scripture and prayer to model stability (Joshua 1:8). • Delegate and invite participation; empower others to experience God’s work firsthand. Scriptures for Further Reflection • 2 Kings 4:39-41 — God turns a poisoned stew into nourishment. • Exodus 15:23-25 — A bitter spring becomes sweet through obedience. • James 1:5 — Wisdom promised for those who ask in faith. • Matthew 6:33 — Seek God’s kingdom first, and needs are met. |
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