​Persistence Always Pays Off

I heard a preacher last week talk about the story of Elijah and Elisha and had a revelation that I had never considered before even thought I have read the story numerous times.
​In 2 Kings chapter 2, it describes a conversation between Elijah and Elisha before Elijah was caught up in the chariot of fire. Three times Elijah told Elisha to wait for him in locations because of the errand that God had for Elijah. Elisha denied the request each time and the two end up staying together and eventually crossing the Jordan River on dry land from Elijah’s rolled up cloak. Elijah asked Elisha what he wanted from him and his request is at the end of verse 9 “Elisha said, "Your life repeated in my life. I want to be a holy man just like you." Elijah responded that he would only get what he was requesting if he was “watching when Elijah was taken up into heaven.”
 
When I read verse 10, I was struck with a fact that exemplified persistence. If Elisha had not been persistent in turning down the instruction to wait and not go with Elijah he would not have had the opportunity to be granted his request.
 
How many times do we take the easy road? How many times do we opt for the “easiest” instead of the best? I began to review my own life and the times I have taken the sideline when it was offered to me instead of saying, “No God. I want to stay in this for the long haul.”
 
As humans, we are built for the path of least resistance. Why do you think it will be so hard for people after the new year to promise themselves that they will go to the gym everyday in 2017 to only have 19% make it the whole year? (That is actually a proven fact)
 
One of the chief things I learned when I got sick with my eye was that my relationship with God was based on the least resisted path. I would be an amazing studier of the Bible for others and come up with great sermon illustrations and ways for others to walk out their faith. Then when I got sick, my belief of all the powerful and important things that I had told others for years went out the window and I wanted to quit and had thoughts of killing myself because I could not think of living in a world where I was blind. Study of the Bible and spending time with God was something that I felt like I needed only when I needed something or that it was my job.
 
Today, think about your resolve to look past the things that seem like an easy path in life when you know you need to step up and stay in the game. Not to quit and miss exactly what God has for you in life. Maybe this in one of the hardest holiday seasons you can remember. Don’t quit on God and a relationship with him. Stick with it. I am praying for you and believing for God’s VERY BEST this holiday season and new year for you.