"The Rights of God" # 34

The Victory Over the Powers of Darkness (continued)

Let us turn to Elisha, and we will see that he is to come into the same position: the position of a death - overcoming life on this earth. Elisha now possesses the mantle of Elijah, in whom we have the symbol that the power of death has been broken. This must become real to him through faith. Elisha is intended to be a witness and a testimony of the power of the resurrection.

Let us not overlook that "the exceeding greatness of His power" is only prepared for those "who believe" and given to them only (Ephesians 1:19).

Elisha's heart was set on receiving a double portion of the spirit of his master. When Elijah heard the request, he hesitated. And his answer is: "Thou hast asked a hard thing." Oh, faith always asks for the impossible. The true nature of faith consists in always being on the lookout for something that is impossible on natural grounds. From the start Elisha acts on the basis of faith. Everywhere the sons of the prophets had tried to shake his faith. But his heart was steadfast. He knew what he wanted. He did not let go until Elijah said" "If thou see me when I am taken from thee, it shall be so unto thee." He followed him. He followed his master until the end. And when he saw him ascent, he cried out: "My father, my father ..." in other words: "Here I am, and I expect to receive what you have promised me."

Do we see what faith is all about? Faith looks into the surpassing greatness of His power that is available to us "who believe."

In this connection let us point to something that is not less important. The Lord wants the power of His Spirit in His people to be seen. If this is to happen, then Gilgal must first have done its work. If not, danger exists that yet again our self becomes visible and that personal interests come in. When Elijah asked: "Ask what I shall do for thee." Elisha did not ask for a double portion of his power, but a double portion of his spirit. What are we striving for? For strength and power? Or are we focused on the Spirit of Jesus Christ not in the first place as the Spirit of Power, but simply as the Spirit Himself? Elisha esteemed his master extraordinarily highly. It was his spirit he longed to possess. He wanted to be like him. For this reason God has also sent His Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is there, not only to reveal His power, but that Christ is seen in us in His power.

~T. Austin-Sparks~

(continued with # 35)