Procrastination, the act of delaying or postponing tasks, is a concept that can be explored through various biblical narratives. In the context of Elisha, the prophet and successor of Elijah, the theme of procrastination is notably absent, as Elisha's life and ministry are marked by prompt obedience and decisive action. This entry examines the life of Elisha, highlighting his immediate responses to God's calling and commands, serving as an implicit contrast to the concept of procrastination.

Elisha's Call and Immediate Response

Elisha's call to prophetic ministry is a significant moment that underscores his readiness and willingness to serve without delay. In 1 Kings 19:19-21, Elijah finds Elisha plowing with twelve yoke of oxen and throws his cloak over him, symbolizing the transfer of prophetic authority. Elisha's response is immediate and decisive. He requests permission to bid farewell to his parents, which Elijah grants. Elisha then slaughters his oxen, uses the equipment to cook the meat, and gives it to the people to eat. This act signifies his complete break from his former life and his commitment to follow Elijah. The Berean Standard Bible captures this moment: "So Elisha left him and went back. He took his yoke of oxen and slaughtered them. He burned the plowing equipment to cook the meat and gave it to the people, and they ate. Then he set out to follow Elijah and became his servant" (1 Kings 19:21). Elisha's actions demonstrate a lack of procrastination, as he promptly embraces his new calling.

Elisha's Ministry and Prompt Actions

Throughout his ministry, Elisha consistently exhibits promptness in responding to God's direction and the needs of the people. His miracles and prophetic acts are characterized by immediacy and effectiveness. For instance, in 2 Kings 2:19-22, when the men of Jericho approach Elisha about their city's undrinkable water, he acts without hesitation. Elisha instructs them to bring him a new bowl with salt, which he throws into the spring, declaring, "This is what the LORD says: 'I have healed this water. No longer will it cause death or unfruitfulness'" (2 Kings 2:21). The water is healed immediately, showcasing Elisha's swift response to the problem.

Similarly, in 2 Kings 4:1-7, when a widow cries out to Elisha for help because her creditors are coming to take her sons as slaves, Elisha quickly provides a solution. He instructs her to gather empty vessels and pour her small amount of oil into them. The oil miraculously multiplies, allowing her to sell it, pay her debts, and live on the remainder. Elisha's prompt guidance and the immediate result of the miracle highlight his proactive approach to ministry.

Elisha's Legacy of Immediate Obedience

Elisha's life and ministry serve as a powerful example of immediate obedience to God's call and commands. His actions reflect a heart attuned to God's will, ready to act without hesitation. This stands in stark contrast to the concept of procrastination, which involves delay and indecision. Elisha's legacy is one of faithfulness and promptness, encouraging believers to respond swiftly to God's leading in their own lives.

In summary, while the Bible does not explicitly address procrastination in the context of Elisha, his life and ministry implicitly challenge the tendency to delay. Elisha's immediate responses to God's call and the needs of others serve as a model of prompt obedience and decisive action, offering a biblical perspective on the importance of timely responses in the life of faith.1 Kings 19:20,21
And he left the oxen, and ran after Elijah, and said, Let me, I pray you, kiss my father and my mother, and then I will follow you. And he said to him, Go back again: for what have I done to you?
Nave's Topical Index

Preparing to Depart
... He said to his friend Elisha, "Ask what I shall do for thee." Quick ... that might have
grown up to be spiritual giants, have been strangled by our procrastination! ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 54 1908/preparing to depart.htm

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