4.10 2 Kings 4-8

Tatiana Reinbrecht

4.10.2020

2 Kings 4-8

A lot is happening within these chapters! We are finding many miracles done through Elisha with all different types of people and situations. His character is continuing to be revealed and how he will be relying on God. Throughout 4 he is moving people’s faith through the four miracles throughout Israel. In chapter 5 we see a commander of the army seeking out help with his leprosy. After consulting Elisha, he walks away angrily and unwilling to obey. After talking with others, he chooses to obey and is cured! Within 6 we see a battle that is won for Israel, only through the help and watchfulness of God. As well as, a famine created by a siege in Samaria. Mourning from the people leads us into chapter 7. Elisha on the scene with a prophosey. Informing the king that the people will eat again but he will not eat any of it. Then four men with leprosy find a camp – empty- and full of supplies, money, and food. Sharing the wealth with the city under siege, the prophecy comes true and the king does not eat a morsel. Ending out in 8, Elisha notes the kingdoms in Aram and Judah doing right and wrong in the sight of the Lord. The end result, correlated to the king’s decisions.

A key verse in these chapters is: 

1 Kings 6: 15-17

“When the servant of the man of God got up and went out early the next morning an army with horses and chariots had surrounded the city. “Oh no, my lord! What shall we do?” the servant asked. “Don’t be afraid,” the prophet answered. “Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” And Elisha prayed, “Open his eyes, LORD, so that he may see.” Then the LORD opened the servant’s eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.”

This verse is a wonderful reminder of how Sovereign our God is. He is watching over me and I do not need to worry about what I cannot control or situations that I think are “too big”. Especially during the Pandemic, I am reminded that as big as my ‘worry’ can be, it is not as big as God. Like the servant, I can only see with my eyes but what God has laid before me is better than what I could have planned for. God is watching over all of us – He is battling for us. I am blown away by encouragement! Jesus also gives us a reminder to not worry in Matthew 6:25-34. 

How does what you read change your vision of God?

I noticed how much God wants us in His plan. He is an amazing God (6:17-18) who can do everything in a snap of His fingers but instead, he calls for people to do His will. He wants us to be a part of the process. We GET to be part of God’s team, the best team!! 

How does what you read change your vision of yourself or others?

In these chapters I see a call to be a vessel for God to work and move towards Him. Without Him, what am I really capable to do for the Kingdom? During all the miraculous events that happened through Elisha I see him as a vine that is so close to the branch (John 15:1-17), he knows what the will of God is. I continually yearn for a closeness to God like Elisha. 

How will you Go With God because of this reading? 

My plan to Go With God, includes other people helping me and strengthening my relationship with God. Mirroring the many people who are going to Elisha and asking for help, I will also be asking for help. I know I cannot walk alone. I need wise eyes helping me. Closer to God and closer to the family of believers. n

Where did you see Jesus in these chapters? 

The character of Jesus is evident in Elisha’s approach and interactions with the people. I see him changing the culture around him based on how he interacted with the Shunammite woman and the army that was blinded by God. He shows grace and compassion where most would not do that. Similarly how Jesus interacted with the Samaritan woman at the well in John 4.