And the sons of the prophets said to Elisha, “See now, the place where we dwell with you is too small for us. Please, let us go to the Jordan, and let every man take a beam from there, and let us make there a place where we may dwell.” So he answered, “Go.” —
2 Kings 6:1-2
Today’s study is about building capacity. When you find yourself limited or stunted in any aspect of your life, there are four stages in bringing about a change: Awareness, Decision, Planning and Action.2 Kings 6:1-2
AWARENESS:
The account opens with an admission by the sons of the prophets that their place of abode was no longer adequate. Every transformation starts with an awareness or admission of your current situation. You have to first recognise the deficit in your education, language, accommodation, business, ministry, health or relationships.
DECISION:
The prophets announced their intention to build a bigger facility near the Jordan. They had decided to increase their capacity. You cannot change if you see nothing wrong with where you are. There are several people who know that they are operating below their potential. They, however, have no intention of doing anything about it.
PLANNING:
Each man was to cut a beam which would be used for the construction. The third step is to prepare a plan to change the situation. Systematic planning is more effective than wishful thinking. At that stage, you need the wisdom, guidance and the presence of God, and that is what the young prophets sought.
ACTION:
The fourth stage is execution. Many people make elaborate plans and go to sleep. Without decisive action, the situation you are unhappy about will be even worse in future than it is today.
Prayer:
Lord, stir up in my heart the urgency to rise up and build capacity in the important areas of my life.Scripture Reading:
2 Kings 6:1-7
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