"So Elisha left him and went back. He took his yoke of oxen and slaughtered them. He burned the plowing equipment to cook the meat and gave it to the people, and they ate. Then he set out to follow Elijah and became his servant." 1 Kings 19:21
Ever make a resolution to quit a habit or start something new only to slip back into your old ways? We are more than a week into the new year and many people are already struggling to keep moving forward. But what if we removed those things that we could return to? 1 Kings 19:19 tells the story of Elisha being anointed by Elijah to be the prophet to succeed him, "So Elijah went from there and found Elisha son of Shaphat. He was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen, and he himself was driving the twelfth pair. Elijah went up to him and threw his cloak around him. Elisha then left his oxen and ran after Elijah. "Let me kiss my father and mother goodbye, "he said, "and then I will come with you."
Elisha had a choice to make, continue what he was doing plowing the fields, or follow Elijah. By killing his oxen and burning his plowing equipment, he was making the ultimate commitment to follow God. He could no longer return to his life as a wealthy farmer. He completely removed the temptation to slip back into his old life... his comfortable, predictable and easy life. His resolution to change started with his commitment to remove any obstacle or temptation in his way. With nothing to go back to, he could only look up and move forward.
Maybe you're struggling with a habit you're trying to quit or maybe you long to have a closer walk with God? Whatever it is, the best way to ensure success is to remove those things that you may be tempted to come back to. Burn them if you have to and then set out to follow Christ "and become his servant."
Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us second chances. Whatever we are struggling with, I pray that today would be that day that we would leave anything behind that doesn't help us move forward. I pray that we would remove any temptation that would cause us to turn back from you. Give us strength as we set out to follow you with the goal of eternal life and freedom from sin. In your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.
Happy Running!!!
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I won't go back - William McDowell
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