In the ancient days of Israel, there was a powerful prophet named Elijah, known for his miraculous deeds and his deep connection with God. Among his followers was a young man named Elisha, who desired more than just to follow in Elijah’s footsteps—he wanted a double portion of Elijah’s spirit. This desire led to one of the most compelling stories of honour in the Bible.
As Elijah’s time on earth drew to a close, Elisha remained steadfast by his side, refusing to leave him even when urged to do so. This unwavering commitment paid off. When Elijah was taken up to heaven in a whirlwind, Elisha received his request, symbolized by the falling of Elijah’s mantle. This story beautifully illustrates the profound impact of honouring those who have gone before us.
In today’s society, the concept of honour seems to be fading. We live in a generation where many people fail to respect and honour those who have paved the way for them. Honour is a fundamental character trait that every person must cultivate. Without it, we miss out on the wisdom and virtues that can only be gleaned through genuine respect and admiration for others.
Elisha’s story is a powerful reminder that if we wish to receive wisdom and virtue from others, we must learn to honour them and what they carry. Honour is not just about respect; it’s about recognizing the value in others and the contributions they have made to our lives and society.
Consider the words of Proverbs 15:33: “The fear of the Lord is instruction in wisdom, and humility comes before honour.” This verse highlights the relationship between humility and honour. To truly honour someone, we must humble ourselves, recognizing that we have something to learn from them.
Another pertinent scripture is Romans 12:10, which says, “Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honour.” This verse encourages us to go beyond mere respect; we should actively seek to honour others more than they honour us.
Reflecting on the story of Elijah and Elisha, we see that Elisha’s honour for Elijah was not merely verbal but demonstrated through his actions. He followed Elijah to the very end, showcasing a commitment that went beyond words. This act of honour resulted in Elisha receiving a double portion of Elijah’s anointing, a tangible reward for his unwavering respect and dedication.
In our own lives, if we wish to grow and receive wisdom from those around us, we must adopt a similar attitude. Honour is the gateway to learning and receiving. When we honour others, we open ourselves up to receive the wealth of knowledge and experience they have to offer.
Honour is a vital attribute that we must cultivate. It goes beyond mere respect to a deeper appreciation and recognition of others’ worth and contributions. By honouring those who have gone before us, like Elisha did with Elijah, we position ourselves to receive greater wisdom and virtues. Let us strive to outdo one another in showing honour, embracing humility, and recognizing the value in everyone around us.
THE BRIDGE HUB 