Double Blessings

Elisha’s bold request for double blessings reminds us that God honors great faith and can do more than we ask or imagine.

“When they had crossed over, Elijah said to Elisha, ‘Ask me what I should do for you before I am taken from you.’ And Elisha said, ‘Please let a double portion of your spirit be upon me.’”—2 Kings 2:9 NASB

God told Elijah to anoint Elisha “as prophet in your place,” so Elijah “threw his cloak” on Elisha (1 Kings 19:16, 19). Then, just before Elijah was taken up into Heaven, he asked Elisha if there was anything else he wanted.

Elisha requested a “hard thing” (v. 10). He didn’t want just a few blessings or a little power—he asked for a “double portion” of the spirit that was upon Elijah’s life … and his request was granted! As confirmation, Elisha saw a chariot carrying Elijah as he departed into Heaven.

Elisha decided to see if he’d really been given this double portion. As he approached the Jordan River, he took the cloak he’d been given and struck the waters. The waters were divided, and he walked across! He knew that God had truly answered his prayers, and throughout his ministry, Elisha was able to do miraculous things.

God rewards those who have faith—who believe that “nothing will be impossible” with Him (Luke 1:37) and that “all things are possible for the one who believes” (Mark 9:23). Faith can unlock God’s blessings in every area of our lives.

How big is your faith? Are you asking God for big things or just small things? Are you expecting Him to answer your prayers?

Remember that God has no limits. He is asking you to come to Him boldly, believing Him for breakthroughs and expecting answers to your prayers.

Reflection Question: What bold prayer are you trusting God to answer right now?