Elisha followed in Elijah’s footsteps, performing miracles and speaking God’s truth. His life is a testament to faith, obedience, and God’s power. Today, we’ll uncover the key moments from Elisha’s story and their meaning.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Elijah
What Does The Bible Say About Elisha
2 Kings 2:9
“And when they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, “Ask what I shall do for you, before I am taken from you.” And Elisha said, “Please let there be a double portion of your spirit on me.””
This verse showcases Elisha’s desire for the anointing and power of God to continue through him. Elisha humbly asks for a double portion of Elijah’s spirit, signifying his longing for a greater measure of God’s presence and authority in his life. It reminds us that we can come before God with bold requests, seeking to be filled with the Holy Spirit and equipped for the work He has called us to do.
Elisha’s request also highlights the importance of spiritual inheritance and passing on the mantle of faith from one generation to another. It encourages us to desire a spiritual legacy, not only for our own sake but for the sake of future generations.
2 Kings 2:15
“Now when the sons of the prophets who were at Jericho saw him opposite them, they said, “The spirit of Elijah rests on Elisha.” And they came to meet him and bowed to the ground before him.”
This verse reveals the recognition and acknowledgement of the anointing upon Elisha by the sons of the prophets. Their reverence and submission illustrate the impact and influence a life surrendered to God can have on others. It reminds us of the importance of recognizing and honoring the giftings and callings of those whom God has anointed.
Elisha’s anointing was evident to those around him, serving as a testimony to the power and faithfulness of God. It encourages us to walk in such a way that the Spirit of God can be recognized in our lives, leading others to bow in reverence and acknowledge the work of God in and through us.
2 Kings 2:19-22
“Now the men of the city said to Elisha, “Behold, the situation of this city is pleasant, as my lord sees, but the water is bad, and the land is unfruitful.” He said, “Bring me a new bowl, and put salt in it.” So they brought it to him. Then he went to the spring of water and threw salt in it and said, “Thus says the Lord, I have healed this water; from now on neither death nor miscarriage shall come from it.”
In this passage, Elisha displays the power of God to bring about healing and restoration. Despite the city having pleasant surroundings, the water was causing harm and the land was unproductive. Through Elisha’s obedience to God, the water was miraculously purified and its detrimental effects were eradicated.
This verse reminds us that God has the ability to transform unfavorable circumstances and make them fruitful. It also highlights the importance of seeking God’s wisdom and instructions in addressing challenges. When we trust in God’s guidance and act in obedience, He can bring about miraculous solutions.
2 Kings 2:23-24
“He went up from there to Bethel, and while he was going up on the way, some small boys came out of the city and jeered at him, saying, “Go up, you baldhead! Go up, you baldhead!” And he turned around, and when he saw them, he cursed them in the name of the Lord. And two she-bears came out of the woods and tore forty-two of the boys.”
This passage showcases a contrasting aspect of Elisha’s character, where he responds to disrespect and mockery with a curse. While this incident may seem perplexing and difficult to understand, it serves as a reminder of the importance of reverence towards God and His anointed servants.
Elisha’s curse upon the boys demonstrates the seriousness of dishonoring those whom God has called and anointed. It teaches us that there are consequences for our words and actions, especially when they are directed towards God’s chosen vessels.
2 Kings 3:11
“But Jehoshaphat said, “Is there no prophet of the Lord here, through whom we may inquire of the Lord?” Then one of the king of Israel’s servants answered, “Elisha the son of Shaphat is here, who poured water on the hands of Elijah.””
In this verse, Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, sought a prophet of the Lord for guidance and direction. Elisha’s reputation as Elijah’s faithful servant and his involvement in significant moments of ministry positioned him as a recognized vessel of God’s wisdom.
This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking godly counsel and guidance in our lives. Just as Jehoshaphat desired to hear from a prophet of the Lord, we should seek the wisdom and discernment of those who walk closely with God. It reminds us that God places His anointed servants in our lives to provide spiritual guidance and insight.
2 Kings 3:16-17
“And he said, “Thus says the Lord, ‘I will make this dry streambed full of pools.’ For thus says the Lord, ‘You shall not see wind or rain, but that streambed shall be filled with water, so that you shall drink, you, your livestock, and your animals.’”
Elisha’s prophetic declaration in this passage reveals God’s promise to provide water for the thirsty armies of Israel, Judah, and Edom. Through Elisha, the Lord assured them that even without conventional signs of rain or wind, the dry streambed would miraculously be filled to meet their needs.
This verse reminds us of God’s faithfulness and His ability to provide for us beyond natural means. It encourages us to trust in His supernatural provision and to be open to unexpected ways in which He might meet our needs. It also teaches us to rely on God’s promises, even in seemingly impossible situations.
2 Kings 4:2-7
“And Elisha said to her, “What shall I do for you? Tell me; what have you in the house?” And she said, “Your servant has nothing in the house except a jar of oil.” Then he said, “Go outside, borrow vessels from all your neighbors, empty vessels and not too few. Then go in and shut the door behind yourself and your sons and pour into all these vessels. And when one is full, set it aside.” So she went from him and shut the door behind herself and her sons. And as she poured they brought the vessels to her. When the vessels were full, she said to her son, “Bring me another vessel.” And he said to her, “There is not another.” Then the oil stopped flowing. She came and told the man of God, and he said, “Go, sell the oil and pay your debts, and you and your sons can live on the rest.””
This passage recounts Elisha’s miraculous provision for a widow in dire circumstances. With just a jar of oil as her only possession, Elisha instructed her to gather empty vessels from her community, and as she poured the oil, it multiplied to fill every container she collected. The oil ceased to flow only when there were no more vessels available.
Through this story, we are reminded of God’s ability to multiply what little we have and provide beyond our understanding. It teaches us the importance of obedience in following God’s instructions, even when they seem unconventional or illogical. It encourages us to trust in God’s provision and to be open to unexpected methods by which He can bring about abundance in our lives.
2 Kings 4:8-37
“One day Elisha went on to Shunem, where a wealthy woman lived, who urged him to eat some food. So whenever he passed that way, he would turn in there to eat food. And she said to her husband, “Behold now, I know that this is a holy man of God who is continually passing our way. Let us make a small room on the roof with walls and put there for him a bed, a table, a chair, and a lamp, so that whenever he comes to us, he can go in there.””
This passage highlights the hospitality and generosity shown by a wealthy woman from Shunem towards Elisha. Recognizing him as a holy man of God, she and her husband built a special room on their rooftop, equipped with essential furnishings, as a place for Elisha to rest during his visits.
The actions of this woman demonstrate the importance of honoring and supporting those who serve God’s kingdom. It encourages us to extend hospitality and provide for the physical needs of ministers and servants of God, recognizing the importance of their role in advancing the kingdom. It also reminds us that acts of kindness and support towards God’s chosen vessels do not go unnoticed or unrewarded.
2 Kings 4:32-35
“When Elisha came into the house, he saw the child lying dead on his bed. So he went in and shut the door behind the two of them and prayed to the Lord. Then he went up and lay on the child, putting his mouth on his mouth, his eyes on his eyes, and his hands on his hands. And as he stretched himself upon him, the flesh of the child became warm. Then he got up again and walked once back and forth in the house, and went up and stretched himself upon him. The child sneezed seven times, and the child opened his eyes.””
In this powerful account, Elisha raises a dead child back to life through fervent prayer and physical contact. His actions demonstrate the supernatural power and authority given to him by God, as he repeatedly lays on the child and calls upon the Lord.
This verse speaks of the power of faith and intercession. It shows us that even in the face of death, God can bring forth life. It encourages us to be persistent in our prayers and to trust God for miraculous interventions, even in situations that seem beyond hope. It reminds us that our God is a God of resurrection and can breathe life into even the most lifeless situations.
2 Kings 5:9-11
“So Naaman came with his horses and chariots and stood at the door of Elisha’s house. And Elisha sent a messenger to him, saying, “Go and wash in the Jordan seven times, and your flesh shall be restored, and you shall be clean.” But Naaman was angry and went away, saying, “Behold, I thought that he would surely come out to me and stand and call upon the name of the Lord his God, and wave his hand over the place and cure the leper.””
This passage recounts the encounter between Naaman, a captain in the Syrian army, and Elisha. Naaman sought healing for his leprosy and expected Elisha to perform a grand healing ceremony. Instead, Elisha sent a simple instruction for Naaman to wash in the Jordan River seven times in order to be healed.
This verse highlights the importance of humility and obedience in receiving God’s blessings. Naaman’s initial anger and pride almost caused him to miss out on his miraculous healing. It reminds us that God’s methods don’t always align with our expectations, and we must be willing to humble ourselves and obey His instructions, even when they seem unconventional or contrary to our understanding.
2 Kings 5:14
“So he went down and dipped himself seven times in the Jordan, according to the word of the man of God, and his flesh was restored like the flesh of a little child, and he was clean.””
This verse depicts Naaman’s response of obedience to Elisha’s instruction. Despite initially being hesitant and angry, Naaman humbled himself and dipped in the Jordan River seven times, exactly as directed by Elisha. The result was a complete restoration from his leprosy, with his flesh becoming as healthy as that of a child.
Naaman’s obedience teaches us the importance of trust and faith in God’s Word. It demonstrates that when we are willing to obey, even in seemingly insignificant or illogical matters, God can bring about supernatural transformation in our lives. It encourages us to step out in faith and follow God’s instructions, knowing that He is faithful to fulfill His promises.
2 Kings 5:19-20
“So he said to him, “Go in peace.” But when Naaman had gone from him a short distance, Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, said, “See, my master has spared this Naaman the Syrian, in not accepting from his hand what he brought. As the Lord lives, I will run after him and get something from him.””
In this passage, Gehazi, Elisha’s servant, acted deceitfully by pursuing Naaman and making false claims in order to gain personal benefit from the situation. Gehazi’s actions reflect a lack of integrity and a desire for personal gain.
This verse serves as a cautionary example, warning us against the dangers of greed and dishonesty. It teaches us the importance of integrity, even in situations where personal gain may seem tempting. It reminds us that God desires honesty and upright character in all aspects of our lives.
2 Kings 5:23-27
“And Naaman said, “Be pleased to accept two talents.” And he urged him and tied up two talents of silver in two bags, with two changes of clothing, and laid them on two of his servants. And they carried them before Gehazi. And when he came to the hill, he took them from their hand and put them in the house, and he sent the men away, and they departed. He went in and stood before his master, and Elisha said to him, “Where have you been, Gehazi?” And he said, “Your servant went nowhere.” But he said to him, “Did not my heart go when the man turned from his chariot to meet you? Was it a time to accept money and garments, olive orchards and vineyards, sheep and oxen, male servants and female servants? Therefore the leprosy of Naaman shall cling to you and to your descendants forever.” So he went out from his presence a leper, like snow.””
In this passage, Gehazi’s deceit is exposed when Elisha questions him about his actions. Gehazi’s deliberate lie leads to the pronouncement of leprosy upon himself and his descendants as a consequence of his greed and dishonesty.
This verse serves as a stark reminder of the importance of honesty and the severe consequences of deceit. It reminds us that our actions have repercussions, and dishonesty ultimately leads to destruction. It teaches us to value integrity over personal gain and to trust in God’s provision rather than resorting to deceitful means.
2 Kings 6:8-17
“Once when the king of Syria was warring against Israel, he took counsel with his servants, saying, “At such and such a place shall be my camp.” But the man of God sent word to the king of Israel, “Beware that you do not pass this place, for the Syrians are going down there.” And the king of Israel sent to the place about which the man of God told him. Thus he used to warn him, so that he saved himself there more than once or twice.
In this passage, Elisha’s prophetic insight and communication with the king of Israel enabled the king to avoid unfavorable encounters with the Syrian army. Elisha’s warnings served as strategic guidance that helped Israel to be victorious in times of battle.
This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking God’s wisdom and guidance in times of conflict and decision-making. It reminds us that God can provide supernatural insight and direction, enabling us to make wise choices and avoid unnecessary hardship. It teaches us to rely on God’s instructions and prophetic counsel for protection and success.
2 Kings 6:18-23
“And when the Syrians came down against him, Elisha prayed to the Lord and said, “Please strike this people with blindness.” So he struck them with blindness in accordance with the prayer of Elisha. And Elisha said to them, “This is not the way, and this is not the city. Follow me, and I will bring you to the man whom you seek.” And he led them to Samaria. As soon as they entered Samaria, Elisha said, “O Lord, open the eyes of these men, that they may see.” So the Lord opened their eyes and they saw, and behold, they were in the midst of Samaria.”
This passage demonstrates Elisha’s reliance on God’s supernatural power and the use of strategic tactics to deceive the Syrian army. By praying for the Syrians to be struck with blindness and then leading them to Samaria, Elisha enabled the Israelites to capture the entire army without engaging in battle.
Through this story, we are reminded of God’s ability to bring about victory in unexpected ways. It showcases the importance of trusting in God’s supernatural intervention and following His leading, even when the methods seem unconventional or contrary to human understanding. It encourages us to rely on God’s wisdom and sovereignty in times of conflict and to seek His guidance for strategic outcomes.
2 Kings 6:24-29
“Afterward, Ben-hadad king of Syria mustered his entire army and went up and besieged Samaria. And there was a great famine in Samaria, as they besieged it, until a donkey’s head was sold for eighty shekels of silver, and the fourth part of a kab of dove’s dung for five shekels of silver. Now as the king of Israel was passing by on the wall, a woman cried out to him, saying, “Help, my lord, O king!” And he said, “If the Lord will not help you, how shall I help you? From the threshing floor or from the winepress?” And the king asked her, “What is your trouble?” She answered, “This woman said to me, ‘Give your son, that we may eat him today, and we will eat my son tomorrow.’”
In this passage, Samaria is besieged by the Syrian army, resulting in an extreme famine within the city. The dire circumstances led to unimaginable desperation, with people resorting to unthinkable acts, such as the women mentioned who made a horrific pact to eat their own children.
This verse serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the devastating impact it can have on a society. It highlights the importance of trusting in God’s provision and following His ways, rather than relying on human solutions that ultimately lead to great suffering. It calls us to seek God’s guidance and adhere to His commands, as the consequences of disobedience can be far-reaching and disastrous.
2 Kings 6:30-33
“When the king heard the words of the woman, he tore his clothes—now he was passing by on the wall—and the people looked, and behold, he had sackcloth beneath on his body—and he said, “May God do so to me and more also, if the head of Elisha the son of Shaphat remains on his shoulders today.”” Elisha was sitting in his house, and the elders were sitting with him. Now the king had dispatched a man from his presence, but before the messenger arrived Elisha said to the elders, “Do you see how this murderer has sent to take off my head? Look, when the messenger comes, shut the door and hold the door fast against him. Is not the sound of his master’s feet behind him?” And while he was still speaking with them, the messenger came down to him and said, “This trouble is from the LORD! Why should I wait for the LORD any longer?”
This verse depicts the desperate response of the king of Israel to the ongoing suffering caused by the Syrian siege. Frustrated and distraught, he expressed a desire to behead Elisha, believing he was the cause of their troubles.
However, this verse also reveals Elisha’s unwavering confidence in God’s intervention. He reassures the elders that the messenger will not be able to harm him and calls their attention to the imminent arrival of the king behind the messenger’s footsteps. It serves as a testimony to Elisha’s unwavering trust in God’s protection and an encouragement for us to remain steadfast in our faith, even in the face of threats and challenges.
2 Kings 7:1-2
“But Elisha said, “Hear the word of the Lord: thus says the Lord, ‘Tomorrow about this time a seah of fine flour shall be sold for a shekel, and two seahs of barley for a shekel, at the gate of Samaria.’” Then the captain on whose hand the king leaned said to the man of God, “If the Lord himself should make windows in heaven, could this thing be?” But he said, “You shall see it with your own eyes, but you shall not eat of it.”
In this passage, Elisha prophesies that God will bring about abundance and relief from the famine in Samaria within a short period of time. Despite the captain’s doubting response, Elisha affirms the certainty of the fulfillment of the prophecy, declaring that the captain will witness the provision but not partake of it.
This verse highlights the importance of unwavering faith and trust in God’s promises, even when circumstances seem impossible. It serves as a reminder that God is able to bring about miraculous turnarounds and to provide for His people in unimaginable ways. It also warns against the consequences of doubt and disbelief, emphasizing the importance of aligning our hearts with God’s promises.
2 Kings 7:3-8
“Now there were four men who were lepers at the entrance to the gate. And they said to one another, “Why are we sitting here until we die? If we say, ‘Let us enter the city,’ the famine is in the city, and we shall die there. And if we sit here, we die also. So now come, let us go over to the camp of the Syrians. If they spare our lives we shall live, and if they kill us we shall but die.” So they arose at twilight to go to the camp of the Syrians. But when they came to the edge of the camp of the Syrians, behold, there was no one there. For the Lord had made the army of the Syrians hear the sound of chariots and of horses, the sound of a great army, so that they said to one another, “Behold, the king of Israel has hired against us the kings of the Hittites and the kings of Egypt to come against us.” So they fled away in the twilight and abandoned their tents, their horses, and their donkeys, leaving the camp as it was, and fled for their lives. And when these lepers came to the edge of the camp, they went into a tent and ate and drank, and they carried off silver and gold and clothing and went and hid them. Then they came back and entered another tent and carried off things from it and went and hid them.”
This passage narrates the bold decision made by four lepers who were facing imminent death due to the ongoing famine. Rather than remaining idle and accepting their fate, they resolved to take action and risked approaching the Syrian army encamped outside Samaria. As they approached the camp, they discovered that the Syrians had fled in fear, leaving behind their provisions and valuable possessions.
This verse emphasizes the importance of courage and the reward that can come from stepping out in faith. It encourages us to trust in God’s faithfulness and to take action even in situations that seem dire or impossible. It serves as a reminder that when we align ourselves with God’s purposes, He can provide unexpected deliverance and abundance.
2 Kings 8:1-2
“Now Elisha had said to the woman whose son he had restored to life, “Arise, and depart with your household, and sojourn wherever you can, for the Lord has called for a famine, and it will come upon the land for seven years.” So the woman arose and did according to the word of the man of God. She went with her household and sojourned in the land of the Philistines seven years.”
In this passage, Elisha prophesies about a seven-year famine that would come upon the land. He instructs a woman whose son he had previously restored to life to leave the land and dwell in the land of the Philistines during this time of scarcity.
This verse highlights the importance of heeding the voice of God’s chosen servants and acting in obedience. The woman’s willingness to follow Elisha’s instructions demonstrates her trust in God’s guidance and provision. It serves as a reminder that God knows what is to come and will direct our paths if we are attentive to His voice. It encourages us to be open to divine guidance and to trust in God’s wisdom even when the course of action seems uncertain or challenging.
2 Kings 8:7-11
“Now Elisha came to Damascus. Ben-hadad the king of Syria was sick. And when it was told him, “The man of God has come here,” the king said to Hazael, “Take a present with you and go to meet the man of God, and inquire of the Lord through him, saying, ‘Shall I recover from this sickness?’” So Hazael went to meet him, and took a present with him, all kinds of goods of Damascus, forty camel loads. When he came and stood before him, he said, “Your son Ben-hadad king of Syria has sent me to you, saying, ‘Shall I recover from this sickness?’” And Elisha said to him, “Go, say to him, ‘You shall certainly recover,’ but the Lord has shown me that he shall certainly die.’”
In this passage, Elisha is approached by Hazael, who was sent by the sick king of Syria, Ben-hadad. Hazael offers a significant gift to Elisha and seeks to inquire about the king’s recovery. However, the Lord had revealed to Elisha that Ben-hadad would indeed die.
This verse underscores the importance of integrity and honesty, even in potentially uncomfortable or difficult situations. Elisha adheres to God’s revelation by instructing Hazael to falsely inform the king of his recovery, although he was aware that the king would ultimately die. It serves as a reminder that truthfulness and faithfulness to God’s instructions should always prevail over personal gain or avoidance of conflict. It encourages us to prioritize integrity and obedience to God’s commands in every aspect of our lives.
2 Kings 8:15-17
“But on the next day Hazael took the bedspread and dipped it in water and spread it over his face, till he died. And Hazael became king in his place. In the fifth year of Joram the son of Ahab, king of Israel, when Jehoshaphat was king of Judah, Jehoram the son of Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, began to reign. He was thirty-two years old when he became king, and he reigned eight years in Jerusalem.”
This passage reveals the fulfillment of Elisha’s prophecy concerning Hazael becoming the king of Syria. Hazael’s act of suffocating Ben-hadad and taking his place as king highlights the destructive nature of ambition and the lengths some are willing to go to achieve power.
In contrast, this verse also introduces Jehoram, the son of Jehoshaphat, who becomes the king of Judah. While not explicitly connected to Elisha, it sets the stage for future events involving Elisha’s ministry. It provides historical context and serves as a reminder that leadership has consequences and the actions of kings greatly impact their people.
2 Kings 8:18-19
“And he walked in the way of the kings of Israel, as the house of Ahab had done, for the daughter of Ahab was his wife. And he did what was evil in the sight of the Lord. Yet the Lord was not willing to destroy Judah, for the sake of David his servant, since he promised to give a lamp to him and to his sons forever.”
In this verse, the wicked reign of Jehoram, the king of Judah, is highlighted. Despite being the son of Jehoshaphat, a righteous king, Jehoram marries the daughter of Ahab and follows the sinful ways of the kings of Israel. His actions lead Judah into idolatry and evil practices.
However, this verse also reveals the mercy and faithfulness of God, as He refrains from destroying Judah completely. Due to His covenant with David, God preserves a remnant of His people and remains committed to fulfilling His promise to establish an eternal dynasty through David’s line. It serves as a reminder that God’s mercy is extended even in times of disobedience and that His faithfulness endures throughout generations.
2 Kings 9:1-3
“Then Elisha the prophet called one of the sons of the prophets and said to him, “Tie up your garments, and take this flask of oil in your hand, and go to Ramoth-gilead. And when you arrive, look there for Jehu the son of Jehoshaphat, son of Nimshi. And go in and have him rise from among his fellows, and lead him to an inner chamber. Then take the flask of oil and pour it on his head and say, ‘Thus says the Lord, I anoint you king over Israel.’ Then open the door and flee; do not linger.””
This verse depicts Elisha’s commission to an unnamed son of the prophets to anoint Jehu, the son of Jehoshaphat, as the king of Israel. Elisha instructs the prophet to pour oil on Jehu’s head and proclaim him as the chosen ruler, with the accompanying directive to swiftly escape afterward.
This verse highlights the prophetic role of anointing and the importance of obedience in carrying out God’s assignments. It serves as a reminder that God is the one who raises up and removes leaders, and His plans will ultimately prevail. It encourages us to be faithful in the roles and assignments God has given us, knowing that our obedience can contribute to the fulfillment of His purposes.
2 Kings 9:6-7
“So he arose and went into the house. And the young man poured the oil on his head, saying to him, “Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel, I anoint you king over the people of the Lord, over Israel. And you shall strike down the house of Ahab your master, so that I may avenge on Jezebel the blood of my servants the prophets, and the blood of all the servants of the Lord.”
This passage recounts the fulfillment of Elisha’s command to anoint Jehu as the king of Israel. The unnamed prophet obeys Elisha’s instructions, pours the oil on Jehu’s head, and delivers the message from the Lord, declaring his role in executing judgment upon the corrupt house of Ahab and Jezebel.
This verse emphasizes the divine authority behind Jehu’s anointing and the role he was to fulfill in God’s plan for justice. It reminds us that God holds individuals accountable for their actions and that His vengeance will be executed upon those who oppose His people and His prophets. It serves as a call to righteousness and a reminder of the consequences that come from disregarding God’s commands.