Introduction: Elijah finished faithful! Think about it. He did not face death. Instead, he was raptured to heaven. Not only did he finish faithful but he also left a lasting legacy. Elisha was his beneficiary. I love this biblical account that gives principles of how to “maximize the ministry.”

1. Elisha was found faithful to stick with Elijah! (2Kings 2:2)

“And Elisha said unto him, As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee.”

Being loyal is a key ingredient to getting blessed. An independent spirit is the opposite of a dependent servant. Elisha could be trusted.

2. Elisha learned to trust the God of the Bible! (2Kings 2:3)

“And the sons of the prophets that were at Bethel came forth to Elisha, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the LORD will take away thy master from thy head to day? And he said, Yea, I know it; hold ye your peace.”

The sooner we learn that God is in charge the better off we will be. Our faith must rely upon Him.

3. Elisha had Big expectations and aspirations! (2Kings 2:9,10)

“And it came to pass, when they were gone over, that Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken away from thee. And Elisha said, I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me. 10 And he said, Thou hast asked a hard thing: nevertheless, if thou see me when I am taken from thee, it shall be so unto thee; but if not, it shall not be so.”

The stage was set. The plan was in place. In order for the “double portion” to be imparted to Elisha as he requested, he must be with Elijah and witness his departure.

4. Elisha was with Elijah until the end as he was translated to heaven! (2Kings 2:11-13)

“And it came to pass, as they still went on, and talked, that, behold, there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, and parted them both asunder; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven. 12 And Elisha saw it, and he cried, My father, my father, the chariot of Israel, and the horsemen thereof. And he saw him no more: and he took hold of his own clothes, and rent them in two pieces. 13 He took up also the mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and went back, and stood by the bank of Jordan.”

Seeing things “through” and being patient until the blessing comes is very rewarding.