The Bible presents a sobering account through the life of the prophet Elijah, who was commanded by God to anoint three individuals: Hazael as king over Syria, Jehu as king over Israel, and Elisha as prophet in his place (1 Kings 19:15–16). While Elijah succeeded in anointing Elisha, he departed this life without anointing the other two. As a result, the activation of their roles was delayed, and so too was the destiny of the nations they were called to lead.
This delay is more than a historical footnote; it is a divine warning. Jehu and Hazael were not ordinary men—they were leaders handpicked by God for the deliverance and governance of nations. Yet, their rise was stalled because the one charged with awakening their assignment did not complete his task. Could it be that even in our time, some leaders have not ascended to their ordained positions because those sent to prepare or recognize them failed to obey divine instruction?
The pattern repeats itself throughout Scripture. God appoints leaders, but He often does so through human vessels. Romans 13:1 affirms, “There is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.” Still, the means by which those leaders are activated involves prophetic action, mentorship, and spiritual obedience.
Consider David. Though anointed king by the prophet Samuel, David did not immediately ascend the throne. He had to undergo a process—a wilderness season, persecution, rejection, and deep personal transformation—before he could reign (1 Samuel 16; 2 Samuel 5). Until David was ready, Israel endured the instability and disobedience of Saul’s reign. David’s kingship was ordained, but his appointment required maturity.
Likewise, Moses was born to be a deliverer, yet he was delayed—not by Pharaoh, but by his own immaturity and fear. Though called from birth, it was not until 80 years later that God sent him to confront Pharaoh and liberate the people. Exodus 3:10 records God’s words: “Come, I will send you to Pharaoh that you may bring my people… out of Egypt.” Until Moses answered, Israel remained in bondage longer than necessary.
These biblical examples show us that destiny can be delayed—not denied, but postponed—due to human factors. When those assigned to awaken leaders fail to act, or when the leaders themselves resist growth or preparation, nations suffer. Every nation has a Moses, a David, a Jehu—someone divinely equipped to rise in a specific season. But their emergence depends on both divine timing and human obedience.
The Church bears a great responsibility in this dynamic. 1 Timothy 2:1–2 commands believers to intercede “for kings and all who are in high positions.” This includes both those already sitting in authority and those whose callings are still hidden or hindered.
It is the Church's role to pray that those appointed by God would come into position—whether in politics, education, media, business, or the church itself.
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We must pray that mentors, prophets, and apostolic voices fulfill their assignments to activate these leaders. We must also pray that those anointed for influence will yield to God’s process, maturing in wisdom and character. Until they do, nations will continue to cry out under poor leadership, instability, and spiritual drought.
When destiny is delayed, the people suffer. But when the Church rises in obedience and intercession, heaven responds, and God-appointed leaders are established. Let us not cease in prayer for our nations, nor delay the callings of those God has chosen. The time is urgent. The leaders must arise. The nations are waiting.
God bless you.
