God will send the Prophet Elijah to minister restoration specifically to the Fatherless Generation. Growing up as part of the Fatherless Generation, we have a challenge learning to trust and rely on God fully. We have learned to survive and live our life mostly on our own. We cope. We have tried to move on from out disappointments and heart-sick experiences. It hurts when are hopes are deferred. We do what we need to to?
As Elijah engaged on a new level of direction at the end of his prophetic ministry, his focus shifted from only confronting that which was a violation of principle to reproducing himself by raising up spiritual sons and daughters. His ministry in establishing the School of the Prophets launched the double portion anointing in lives such as Elisha. He raised up new leaders for the throne of Kingdoms as well. His ministry was far more impartational than confrontational as he ministered to the fatherless generation.
Look at his interaction with Elisha when he first called him to share his ministry mantle and anointing. Elisha tries to share an emotional appeal that he had some family commitments and responsibilities to take care of. He was waiting for his father’s blessing which still was probably a long way off. Elijah’s comment: “WHAT HAVE I DONE TO YOU?”
The opportunity to mentored and drawn into a relationship that transforms one’s destiny is built around the shift to be fathered in the faith. Much can happen in our lives as we shift from a solitary lifestyle into a nurturing family-based ministry dynamic. Yes, God places the solitary into families. (Ps. 68:6) Through this level of nurture in the crucible of relational service we are transformed.
Consider some key terms: ASSISTANT/ATTENDANT
I Kings 19:25 “Then he set out to follow Elijah and became his Attendant.” Being fathered in the faith and mentored into our destiny requires submission and teachableness. For independent people and survivors who have learned to cope in life in solitude we have to deny an essential part of our divine construction. IT IS NOT GOOD THAT MAN SHOULD BE ALONE. We are all created for relationship and God is nurturing us through relationships. Of course the Gen 1 Context is specifically focused on Gods heart to build the union of a marriage covenant. What is so exciting to me is what happens when we come into a dynamic union of marriage in our life and ministry. Marriage is designed to be a true gift leading to the perfect “HAPPILY EVER AFTER” life story.
Reading 1Pet 3:7 Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs.with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.
Eph 5 too is taking a broader focus and application on the practical side of covenant unity and agreement.Even in our disappointing relationships, he comes along side to hold us together, especially to complete us in the areas of our weakness and personal deficiencies. The Lord Himself promises to stand in the gaps that are found in our lives.
