More from Julie Sipe

In the “Thought for the Day,” I posed a question that I find easy to ask but difficult to answer: “What might be hindering my devotion to God today?” Although a lot has changed in my life from when I first read the passage about Elisha in 2022 to when I wrote and submitted the devotional piece over a year ago to now sharing this blog post today, I would give the same answer. While I’m a very goal-oriented, no procrastination, “let’s get it done,” borderline over-achieving type of person, I am simultaneously a second-guesser. Where some people find it difficult to begin a task or move to the next stage, I struggle to maintain confidence in my decisions and actions throughout the process despite prayerful discernment, especially when I feel judgment and criticism from others.

I think that is why Elisha’s commitment and faithfulness in this story is so inspiring to me. Not only was he ready to go with Elijah without hesitation, but he removed his inability to second-guess his decision and return in the future. Had it been me in Elisha’s shoes, I would have been standing there watching the farm equipment burn while asking, “What have I done?” Although we aren’t told directly in the text how the events played out time wise, I imagine Elisha scurrying around like a child getting ready to go to the playground—full of anticipation, hope, and joy and on Elijah’s heels before any ashes hit the ground.

So what is hindering my full devotion to God today? Quite simply, me. My habit of second-guessing is a weakness that God is working on through every difficult situation and struggle I overcome, and I praise him for that. I continue to pray: Lord, help me be more like Elisha! Help me decrease the second-guessing thoughts from the enemy and increase the belief in the loving promises of your faithful word! Amen!