2 Kings 4:18-44 Click here for Bible Verses
Hi GAMErs,
Today’s passage is 2 Kings 4:18-44. Let’s go!
On verses 18-37: In these verses we see God using Elisha to effect three incredible miracles: the raising up of a dead boy (v18-37), the de-contamination of a contaminated pot of stew (v38-40), and the feeding of 100 men with 20 loaves of bread (v42-44). In each case we see the same sequence of events:
– First, someone moves in faith to help and bless others. (e.g. Elisha speaks in faith that the rich barren woman would have a child and she does (v16-17); Elisha offers to feed his fellow prophets in the midst of a famine; and a man tithes his first 20 loaves of bread by giving it to Elisha.)
– A major challenge or problem arises. (e.g. The boy dies; the stew becomes poisonous; Elisha wants to feed the 20 loaves to the people but his servant fears it won’t be enough).
– Through faith that challenge is overcome and an even greater story is told as a result (e.g. the boy is raised back to life; the pot is de-contaminated; and the bread not only satisfies the 100 men but there are leftovers, foreshadowing the even greater feeding miracles Jesus would accomplish).
Since every miracle is a parable (a lesson on who God is and how God works), from these miracles I learn the following:
1. God is in the business of raising the dead, healing the sick, and feeding the hungry.
2. What seem like impossible and painful situations for us are opportunities for God to show His power and glory.
3. When you step out in faith, you will occasionally meet a major setback (such a loss, a disappointment, a defeat). Treat that setback as an opportunity for you to learn and for God to tell an even greater story than the one you originally had in mind.
Heavenly Father, thank You that every miracle is a parable and that every setback is an opportunity for me to learn and for You to tell an even greater story than the one I originally had in mind. In Jesus’ name, AMEN!
