When God Calls You from the Plow

1 Kings 19:15–21

Exposition
Sometimes we imagine God’s calling as a dramatic flash of light or a booming voice from heaven. But more often, it comes in the middle of ordinary life. Elisha was plowing a field when Elijah threw his cloak over him—a silent but unmistakable call.

His response is immediate and costly. Elisha slaughters the oxen and burns the plowing equipment. He is not hedging his bets. There’s no going back. He’s leaving behind his old life for the sake of a new one he doesn’t fully understand.

But notice this: before Elisha becomes a prophet, he becomes a servant. “Then he arose and went after Elijah and assisted him.” (v.21) Before God uses him to speak, He teaches him to follow.

Application
What are the plows you’re holding on to—old identities, comforts, or plans you’re afraid to leave? God doesn’t always call us to dramatic abandonment, but He does call us to wholeheartedness. There is no such thing as part-time discipleship.

This week, ask: where might God be calling me to say goodbye to good things for the sake of better ones? Maybe it’s shifting your career goals, giving up a habit, or letting go of a grudge. You don’t need to know the whole plan. You just need to say yes.

Transform Our Heart Through Prayer
Lord, you find us in our fields and call us to follow. Give us courage to leave behind what hinders, even the good things, to pursue your call. Teach us to serve with humility and trust. Let our lives burn with the joy of belonging wholly to you.
 Amen.