Cloaked for God

~~~ 1 Kings 19:19-21 ~~~ Psalm 16 ~~~ Matthew 5:33-37 ~~~

The call of Elisha;
his name means 'my God is salvation'.

Elijah went over to him (Elisha) and threw his cloak over him.

God worked threw Elijah to claim him for his own symbolized by his cloak.
Elijah claimed Elisha for himself with his cloak.

Cloaks were made of animal's hairs, typically worn by kings and prophets.
Elijah did not need to give any explanation to Elisha
 when he covered him with his cloak.

In effect he took him under his wing.
Elisha gladly became the servant of Elijah.
God had chosen Elisha to follow in the prophetic footsteps of Elijah,
but Elijah did not feel that he was smart enough. 

Elijah says look come with me and I will teach
 you what I know and God will do the rest...don't worry.

At first Elisha was torn between leaving with Elijah
 and pausing to kiss his parents goodbye.

When God calls it is not
always at a convenient time in our lives.

We have many excuses of our own
 when God enters into our lives.

Covering another person with your cloak
means you are now connected to them...
you are committing to take care of them.

God sent Elijah to Elisha.
God gave Elisha the faith to answer the invitation.
Elisha was not in the temple learning the Scriptures;
he was working in the field for his parents.
He even humbly admits he is not equipped
 to become one of God's prophets.

Elisha was busy living his life.
He was not trying to become a learned man of God.
He was not someone most would
 have ever suspected God would use.
Elisha responded and was greatly blessed by God.

Jesus says...
You do not chose me, I chose you.

This was true for the young prophet to be;
it is true for us today as well.

We are blessed to be chosen by God.
Are you running away?
Are you giving excuses?
Are you answering his call even though
you do not feel prepared?

~~~Peace~~~