| 2 Kings 2:5 – The company of the prophets at Jericho went up to Elisha and asked him, “Do you know that the LORD is going to take your master from you today?” “Yes, I know,” he replied, “so be quiet.” |
When reading about the day Elijah is taken up to heaven (2 Kings 2:1-5), I wonder how Elisha felt. My impression is he might have experienced sadness and anxiety. Supporting this conclusion is he admonishes two different groups of prophets for stating what he already knew, for within a short period of time he would never see Elijah again in his lifetime.
After a work place experience, I began appreciating the wisdom Elisha demonstrates as he silences these prophets. A couple of years ago my department was facing major changes and for a number of weeks only limited information was available. This led to many spending a lot of time speculating on what the changes were and the huge impact they would have. What several of us began realizing is such discussions served no purpose except to exacerbate an already stressful situation.
Modeling our behavior on how Elisha responded to the prophets on that fateful day, we decided we were no longer listening to discussions from those who could not tell us anything more than what we already knew. We chose not to react to such comments nor encourage these conversations. Instead we opted to be quiet and respond with prayer and in trusting the Lord for his guidance, protection, and provision during that season. So despite facing the inevitable changes, we began experiencing a sense of peace and comfort sustaining us during that transitional time. In fact, armed with this new attitude we actually began embracing the changes and were excited about all God was doing in our workplace setting.
Prayer: Heavenly Father,
We are so thankful that you are sovereign over all aspects of our lives and what you have for us is always good. Regardless of the situation help us to first stop, look to you, and rest in the assurance you are working all things out for our benefit. In the Strong Name of Jesus, Amen.
– Phylis Hooten
