Posted by Joel Osteen on 10/19/2012

In scripture we see that for many years Elisha served the prophet Elijah. He was his protégé. Elijah had seen God’s favor in incredible ways. He is the one who called down fire from heaven and 400 false prophets were destroyed. One time, Elijah prayed that it wouldn’t rain. For three and a half years, there was no rain. He was one of the most powerful, anointed people that ever lived. When he was getting very old and about to be taken to heaven, he said to Elisha, “What do you want me to do for you for serving me faithfully all these years?”

Elisha could have asked for something simple. He could have said, “How about a couple weeks off?” or, “How about that new iPad? I’d really like that.” He could have said, “My request is that I’d be able to carry on your ministry.” But, Elisha was bold. He looked at Elijah and said, “What I really want is a double portion of your spirit.” He was saying, “I want to do twice what you’ve done. I want to do twice the miracles, have twice the anointing, twice the favor, twice the influence.”

Elijah could have looked at him and said, “Boy, who do you think you are? You sure are greedy. You need to be a little more humble.” No, Elijah basically told him, “You just keep serving me faithfully and what you have asked will come to pass.”

Do you know the scripture records that Elisha did exactly twice as many miracles as Elijah? But if Elisha would have been timid and thought, “I can’t ask that. That wouldn’t be right,” we wouldn’t be talking about him today.

Remember, God has placed seeds of greatness on the inside of you. He wants you to leave your mark on this generation. You’re not supposed to live and die and nobody miss you. Break out of your box and start asking God for the hidden dreams He has placed on the inside. Ask Him for the double portion. Be bold and step out in faith. Keep believing, keep hoping, keep dreaming and keep following His plan because His ways always lead to the double portion!