Over Jordan for the double portion

We're in the middle of a series on the life of Elisha at Pill Corps.

On the way to the Jordan, Elisha had the choice of staying at various places to work for God but he knew that if he did, he would be self appointed rather than Spirit anointed. There is an awful lot of stuff done in the Church, by the Church and for the Church but not all of it can be called ministry. Something is only ministry if it imparts spiritual life to another.

Crossing the Jordan speaks of dying to the old life. It speaks of leaving behind self resourced activity for Spirit empowered ministry. Thee is an awful lot of stuff done in the Church, by the Church and for the Church but not all of it can be called minsitry. Something is only minisry if it imparts spiritual life to another.

If we want to see ministry happen, miracles happen, a move of God happen we have got to go through Jordan. God give us the courage to get in the river rather than be like the prophets of Jericho who just watched at a distance.

When Elisha crossed the Jordan he is immediately offered equipping for ministry. He asks boldly for a double portion. He wasn't being greedy he was just asking to inherit what an eldest son would receive from his Father. He wasn't being rude or impolite. Our English culture deems it necessary for us to wait to be asked before taking. But God has asked us what we want and expects us to submit our claim for our inheritance in Christ. God save us from our English reserve!

And suddenly for Elisha, what he asked for was there for the taking. He picked up the mantle of Elijah and there he was doing the things of God by the power of God.

Jesus crossed the Jordan and the Spirit rested upon him like a dove.
Joshua crossed the Jordan and claimed the land of promise
Elisha crossed the Jordan and received a double portion

Come on Salvation Army. It's time for us to cross the Jordan, for the double portion and once again pick up the mantle of ministry that God has called us wear for his glory.

And this morning as we sang "Come Great Spirit come, make each heart thy home" a seeker crossed the Jordan and I believe in their hearts others did too. Hallelujah!

God bless

Carol