The Lord chose Elisha to be Elijah’s predecessor (1 Kings 20:16, 20-21). Elisha, as an act of servitude, poured water on the hands of Elijah (2 Kings 3:11). Elisha wanted to be just like Elijah. In fact, as the day of Elijah’s departure grew closer, Elisha was right next to him. Also following Elijah on his path to takeoff, were fifty other prophets. Elijah had quite a following. But it was Elisha who would succeed the great man of God.
Since Elisha persistently kept up with Elijah from Gilgal to Jericho, Elijah asked if he had any requests. Elisha said, “I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me” (2 Kings 2:9). “Thou has asked a hard thing: nevertheless, if thou see me when I am taken from thee, it shall be so unto thee” Elijah replied. Soon after Elisha’s request there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, and parted them both asunder; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven (2 Kings 2:11). Elisha seen this miraculous event take place. But as he stood there gazing up into heaven, he noticed Elijah’s mantle falling from the sky. Elijah had worn that mantle everywhere. Just recently Elijah took that very mantle and smote the Jordan River and it parted so the two of them could crossover (2 Kings 2:8). Elisha picked up that mantle, placed it around his shoulders and went back towards the Jordan River.
Elisha reached the Jordan River, took off Elijah’s mantle and prayed, “Where is the Lord God of Elijah?” Elisha smote the waters and immediately the river parted for Elisha to crossover. God had indeed given Elisha the very same spirit of Elijah.
This is important for it reveals that God is not limited to time or to individuals. God is not going to be left without a witness. One thinks of the death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ. Doubtless the disciples were troubled at the departure of their Lord. But Jesus had previously told them that the very works that He had done would be accomplished through them as well (Jn. 14:12). However, if they were going to do the same works, and even greater works, they would need to receive His Spirit (Jn. 14:13-17; Acts 1:8-12; 2:1-4).
Brothers and sisters, we must have the Spirit of Christ if we are to be like Christ. God is not limited to time or to individuals. What God is looking for is availability.