What investments have you made in the lives of others? (103-4)

Leaders do more than merely point people in the right direction; they create conditions that will empower them to do the job. Read 2 Kings 2:7-15.

Elisha boldly asked Elijah for a double portion of the older prophet’s spirit. In doing so, he would assume the position of Elijah’s firstborn son. God granted his request when Elisha was allowed to pick up the cloak that dropped down from his mentor Elijah as he was being carried up to heaven by the hand of God.

Elijah invested time and energy developing Elisha as a leader, educating and mentoring him. Only at the point at which Elisha could properly manage the resources did Elijah agree to fully empower him. The leader who offers empowerment too early sets up their teammate for failure. On the other hand, the leader who fails to empower capable people in a timely manner creates frustration.

Elisha asked his mentor Elijah to empower him with a double portion of his spirit. Elijah knew he did not have the authority to grant Elisha’s request; leaders can’t literally confer power upon others, according to Psalm 75, God raises one up and deposes another. Leaders can, however, delegate authority to those on their team. Additionally, leaders can supply the resources and create the conditions that allow people to develop their God-given power so they can complete their responsibilities. Effective leaders think in terms of delegating responsibility and authority, then giving their teammate freedom in order to empower their team.

As you look back over the course of the years, who are the people who have made significant investment in your life? In what ways have they empowered you? Conversely, what investments have you made in the lives of others?