From Splendor to Shadow

Elisha's Last Days

So effectual had been his ministry that as Elisha lay on his deathbed, even the youthful King Joash, an idolater with little respect for God, recognized in the prophet a father in Israel and acknowledged that his presence among them was of more value in time of trouble than an army of horses and chariots. See 2 Kings 13:14. SS 141.3

To many a troubled soul the prophet had acted the part of a wise father. And in this instance he turned not from the godless youth before him, so unworthy of the position of trust he was occupying, and yet so greatly in need of counsel. God was bringing the king an opportunity to redeem the past and place his kingdom on vantage ground. The Syrian foe was to be repulsed. Once more the power of God was to be manifested in behalf of erring Israel. SS 141.4

The dying prophet told the king, “Take bow and arrows.” Joash obeyed. Then the prophet said, “Put thine hand upon the bow.” Joash “put his hand upon it: and Elisha put his hands upon the king's hands. And he said, Open the window eastward”—toward the cities beyond Jordan in possession of the Syrians. 2 Kings 13:15-17. The king having opened the window, Elisha told him to shoot. As the arrow sped on its way, the prophet was inspired to say, “The arrow of the Lord's ... deliverance from Syria: for thou shalt smite the Syrians in Aphek, till thou have consumed them.” 2 Kings 13:17. SS 141.5

And now the prophet tested the faith of the king. Bidding Joash take up the arrows, he said, “Smite upon the ground.” Three times the king smote the ground. “Thou shouldest have smitten five or six times,” Elisha cried in dismay, “then hadst thou smitten Syria till thou hadst consumed it: whereas now thou shalt smite Syria but thrice.” Verses 18, 19. SS 142.1

The lesson is for all in positions of trust. When God gives assurance of success, the chosen instrument must do all in his power to bring about the promised result. In proportion to the enthusiasm and perseverance with which the work is carried forward will be the success given. God can work miracles for His people only as they act their part with untiring energy. Men of devotion, of moral courage, with a zeal that never flags will labor on undaunted until apparent defeat is turned to victory. Not even prison walls will cause them to swerve from their purpose of upbuilding God's kingdom. SS 142.2