Have you ever read the stories in 2 Kings 4?
The chapter is broken down in four distinct stories: The Widow’s Oil; The Shunammite’s Son Restored to Life; Death in the Pot; and Feeding of a Hundred.
I see these stories as a God who provides for our needs and sometimes what we didn’t even consider a need.
As me and my daughter were walking in the store a few days ago to pick up our contribution to her class party, she asked for something. Because she had not had this particular thing in a long time, I gave in and told her she could have it. As we were walking to the cashier, she says: ‘Mommy, you got what you needed, and I got what I wanted’. I was very impressed that she knew that distinct difference.
Today, I want to share about the Shunammite Woman. She’s described as a ‘well-to-do woman’. She had everything she needed. When Elisha passed through her town during his travels, she would welcome him and his servant to stop in for a meal. I’m guessing he passed by often enough, because this woman suggested to her husband to make a room for him to stay. I love her generous spirit.
After some time of this happening, Elisha wanted to return the kindness to her. The only thing she apparently did not have was a child. I’m guessing as a woman back then, she would have tried – and as she was now older in age – must have given up. When Elisha told her that in a year she was going to have a son, her words were ‘no, my lord…don’t mislead your servant, O man of God!’
As I’m reading it – it seemed she was careful to remind him just who he was, as she was telling him not to mislead her.
But guess what? At the exact time that Elisha said she would have the son, she did.
There’s a lot more to this story – but I want to encourage you, and me..
Has God given you a promise?
Don’t lose heart because you think a lot of time has passed. God knows exactly when His promise needs to be fulfilled. Hang on just a little bit longer. Do not be afraid or discouraged.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you that you are a God who provides – even in situations when we have long given up hope. I pray that as we are having moments of discouragement that you will remind us of your promises – and that you always keep your word. Help us to be obedient as well, to what you are asking of us.