What does the request to "let us go to the Jordan" teach about initiative? Setting the Scene • 2 Kings 6:1-2—“Now the sons of the prophets said to Elisha, ‘Please look, the place where we meet with you is too small for us. Please let us go to the Jordan, where we can each get a log and build ourselves a place to live there.’ ‘Go,’ said Elisha.” • A crowded school of prophets recognizes a growth-problem and voices a solution before it becomes a crisis. What the Request Reveals about Initiative • Awareness: They first “look” and admit the current situation is inadequate. Initiative begins by honestly facing reality (cf. Proverbs 27:23). • Specific Vision: They do not merely complain; they outline a clear, workable plan—“go…each get a log…build.” • Personal Ownership: “Each” will cut his own beam. True initiative shoulders responsibility rather than waiting for others (Galatians 6:5). • Cooperation: They act as a team, proving that initiative is compatible with unity (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12). • Respect for Authority: They ask Elisha’s permission. God-honoring initiative never bypasses God-given leadership (Hebrews 13:17). • Transparency: By inviting Elisha along (v. 3), they welcome accountability, keeping motives pure (2 Corinthians 8:21). • Faith Expectation: Going to the Jordan—outside their comfort zone—assumes God’s provision even in potential hazard (the floating axe head miracle that follows underscores this, vv. 4-7). Practical Takeaways • Recognize needs early and speak up. • Pair problems with practical, God-honoring solutions. • Be willing to contribute time, sweat, and resources yourself. • Work with others; initiative is not isolation. • Submit plans to spiritual oversight; blessing follows order. • Keep leaders involved so that correction or supernatural help is close at hand. • Step out, trusting God to handle setbacks you cannot foresee. Supporting Scriptures • Proverbs 16:3—“Commit your works to the LORD and your plans will be established.” • Ecclesiastes 9:10—“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.” • Nehemiah 2:4-5—Nehemiah petitions the king before rebuilding; bold plans paired with respect. • James 2:17—“Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” • Colossians 3:23—“Whatever you do, work at it with your whole heart, as working for the Lord.” |
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