When we study the heroes of faith, we aren’t looking at men and women who were afraid to step out in faith or had too much going on to be bothered by God’s call. We don’t hear about men and women who were given a life plan clearly detailed for their safety and peace of mind. No, we look at men and women who had a heart for God and were willing to live life on the edge in order to be obedient and faithful to God. We think of Moses, Joseph, David, Esther, the Apostles. All of these great heroes of our faith responded when God said, “go,” and followed when Jesus said “come follow me.” Are you willing to boldly follow God in obedience, even when you are scared to death? What will be your faith legacy?

Scriptures – 2 Chronicles 16:9; Luke 18:8; Hebrews 11:1-2, 6; 1 Kings 19:19-21

Verses – For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him. (2 Ch 16:9) “But when the Son of Man returns, how many will he find on the earth who have faith?”(Lk 18:8) And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. (He 11:6)

Thought – God instructed his prophet Elijah to find a man named Elisha and anoint him as a student/prophet in training. Elijah found Elisha behind a team of oxen and a plow in the field working. Elisha was being faithful exactly where he was. He wasn’t looking for the next promotion, the next good thing to come along, and God saw him and found him faithful. What else did God see in Elisha that caused him to be called out, chosen for this task? One thing that stands out is Elisha’s obedience. When Elijah found Elisha, he went to him and threw his cloak around him. This symbolized passing authority, the mantle of leadership. Elisha said goodbye to his parents, then killed the oxen and burned the plow, roasting the meat and sharing it with all those around. He then left and followed Elisha without question. He didn’t know where this was going to lead him, but he went faithfully and obediently. Another thing that stands out is Elisha’s response of sacrificing the oxen and burning the plow. He wasn’t holding on to these just in case the apprenticeship with Elijah didn’t work out. Elisha was all in, no turning back. When God calls, we need to be ready and willing to respond. It may not make sense and most often it is given to us just one step at a time with few details. And be forewarned, God’s call almost always involves sacrifice. Elisha went on to be a great prophet. Only Jesus performed more miracles than Elisha. Following God’s call reaps great rewards, but faithful obedience and sacrifice are required. “But when the Son of Man returns, how many will he find on the earth who have faith?” (Luke 18:8)

Questions – What risks has God called you to take? Did you take it? If so, how has it turned out? How do you think it would have turned out if you hadn’t moved forward with God? How do you know it’s God calling you to do something and not just your own wants and desires? Are you faithful with where you are right now, not constantly looking toward “what’s next”? If God calls, will you be obedient? Is there anything you can’t let go of that may be keeping you from God’s call?

Response – Consider your day-to-day responsibilities. This is where you are right now, so be faithful and pray for God’s guidance. Commit to obey when God calls.

Prayer – Gracious God, you created me to serve you and you provide me with all that’s needed to accomplish whatever you call me to do. Help me to be faithful in today’s responsibilities, open to you call, willing to respond and swift to let go of all that would keep me from faithfully following you. In Jesus Name I pray, amen.