Scripture Reading: 2 Kings: 1:13
And he sent again a captain of the third fifty with his fifty. And the third captain of fifty went up, and came and fell on his knees before Elijah, and besought him, and said unto him, O man of God, I pray thee, let my life, and the life of these fifty thy servants, be precious in thy sight.

Reflections: The King of Samaria ordered a troop of 50 soldiers with their captain to go after Elijah. He wanted them to bring Elijah to his palace to answer questions regarding a prophecy he had given against him. The troop were unfortunate in their mission. Elijah ordered fire from heaven to consume them. A follow-up mission of another captain with 50 soldiers also met their untimely death similarly. When another troop was sent again, the captain decided to take a different approach. Unlike his other colleagues, he showed respect to Elijah as he bowed before him and used very humble words to convey the king’s message. This demonstration of humility saved his life and that of his troop. Elijah was restrained from calling down fire as he did with the other two disrespectful troops. In life, like the third troop, it is vital to always learn from the mistakes of others. This will usher you on a path of humility which in turn will save you from a lot of troubles. Don’t repeat the mistakes of others!

Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to learn from the mistake of others.

Confession: I don’t repeat the mistakes of others.