2 Kings 9: Serving the Poor and Those Who Lead

The prophet Elisha summoned a man from the company of the prophets and said to him, “Tuck your cloak into your belt, take this flask of olive oil with you and go to Ramoth Gilead. ² When you get there, look for Jehu son of Jehoshaphat, the son of Nimshi. Go to him, get him away from his companions and take him into an inner room. ³ Then take the flask and pour the oil on his head and declare, ‘This is what the Lord says: I anoint you king over Israel.’ Then open the door and run; don’t delay!” -2 Kings 9:1-3

Elisha was used by God to help the poor and to anoint kings. The same God who called him to help the oppressed also called him to serve those who led the nation. God cared for both types of people. He always has and always will.

It’s easy for people to highlight the plight of the poor and mock the leaders of their nation. This was true in Elisha’s time and remains true today. What is more difficult is to serve God among those who lead our nation with grace and respect, especially among those who stand opposed to many of God’s ways. However, Elisha serves as a great example in this regard. Just as God cares for all, so should his people.

Today, pray for those in need. Also pray for your community, state, and national leaders. They, too, are people in need of God’s grace and wisdom. May we be among those who seek God’s blessing upon those who lead us.

Let’s talk about it on Facebook! Share your thoughts, pictures, or videos on handwriting Scripture.

+++

Dillon Burroughs is the author and coauthor of numerous books and is handwriting a copy of all 31,173 verses of the Bible at HolyWritProject.com. Find out more about Dillon at Facebook.com/readdB or readdB.com.