What qualities of Elihu should we emulate in our daily walk with God? A trusted leader in David’s kingdom 1 Chronicles 27:18 records, “for Judah, Elihu, one of David’s brothers; for Issachar, Omri son of Michael;”. Being placed over the royal tribe shows David counted Elihu dependable, spiritually grounded, and able to shepherd God’s people. Those same traits belong in every believer’s daily walk. Faithful service where God assigns us • Elihu accepted responsibility without fanfare. • Luke 16:10—“Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much.” • Colossians 3:23—“Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men.” Strive for reliability at home, church, and work; God honors quiet faithfulness. Humility that supports, not competes • Though David’s brother, Elihu served under the king instead of seeking the throne. • Philippians 2:3—“in humility consider others more important than yourselves.” • James 4:10—“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you.” Choose cooperation over self-promotion; God lifts up those content to serve. Zeal for God’s honor and truth Job’s Elihu (Job 32–37) models holy passion: • Job 32:2—“Elihu…burned with anger” because God’s glory was being misrepresented. • Job 36:3—“I will ascribe righteousness to my Maker.” Cultivate righteous zeal—speak up when God’s character is maligned, yet do so graciously (Ephesians 4:15). Spirit-led wisdom, not mere opinion • Job 32:8—“It is the spirit in a man, the breath of the Almighty, that gives him understanding.” • James 1:5—“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God.” Seek God’s insight through prayer and Scripture before offering counsel. Boldness balanced with respect • Job 33:6—Elihu stands “in God’s stead” yet admits, “I too was formed from clay.” • 2 Timothy 1:7—God gives “power, love, and self-discipline.” Speak truth courageously while remembering our shared human frailty. Integrity that withstands scrutiny • David trusted Elihu to oversee Judah’s resources—an office easily corrupted. • Proverbs 11:3—“The integrity of the upright guides them.” Guard your character; let your “Yes” be yes (Matthew 5:37). Takeaway Elihu’s life snapshots—faithful service, humble support, zeal for God’s honor, Spirit-led wisdom, respectful boldness, and unshakeable integrity—paint a portrait every believer can imitate as we walk closely with the Lord each day. |