Step 1: SETTING OFF FROM GILGAL
2 Kings 2:1 — “And it came to pass, when the LORD was about to take up Elijah into heaven by a whirlwind, that Elijah went with Elisha from Gilgal.” [NKJV]
There are many reasons why a man must set off from the place of Gilgal, but here are the main ones:
A. Determination
Luke 9:59–62 —
Then He said to another, “Follow Me.” But he said, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.”
Jesus said to him, “Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and preach the kingdom of God.”
And another also said, “Lord, I will follow You, but let me first go and bid them farewell who are at my house.”
But Jesus said to him, “No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.” [NKJV]
When a man decides to set off from Gilgal—since it is a place of circumcision—it demonstrates his determination to move forward and receive from God.
In the physical realm, circumcision is a painful process. Therefore, if a man chooses to go through it, it shows how determined he is to endure painful consequences in order to pursue God’s call.
B. Faith
Hebrews 11:6 — “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” [NKJV]
Gilgal also proves a man’s faith in the Lord—that after everything, he expects a wonderful report as the result of his obedience.
In obtaining this faith, you are shielded, as shown in Ephesians 6:10. With this faith, you will gain the substance of things hoped for, evidence of things unseen, good reports, deeper understanding, the ability to give excellent sacrifices, transformation of your spiritual life, the power to please God, salvation, inheritance, strength, and power.
The question is: Are you ready to set off?
Prayer
Darling Jesus, I present myself to You, O God. In my own strength, I cannot do what is necessary but help me and carry me. Let Your will take over my will for the glory of Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
