In 2 Kings 4:8-37 and 8:1-6, we encounter a generous, and obedient woman of faith known as Shunammite, named after her village near the fertile fields of Esdraelon. She was a well-to-do and generous woman, who often hosted the prophet Elisha whenever he came by. Most travel in ancient times was by foot or sometimes by donkey, and Elisha traveled much to demonstrate God’s power through his speaking and miracles. Understanding the value of his ministry, she takes the initiative to build an upper room for his rest.
Elisha, thankful for her generosity, wants to bless her. Although she was childless and her husband was old, she primarily refused any rewards. But God did not overlook her in His grace and Elisha, directed by God, prophesies that within a year she will have a son. The prophecy came true, and she gave birth to a son, a great blessing from God.
But the test of her faith in Yahweh begins when one day her child gets sick and suddenly dies in her lap. Amid this profound grief, she gently places her lifeless child on Elisha’s bed and leaves to seek Elisha. When she sees him, instead of saying that her son is dead, she calmly answers, “It is well” and pleads with him to demonstrate God’s power for the child God gave her. Her unwavering faith and firm determination move the prophet not only to go to her home but to bring her son back to life.
Later, when a famine struck Shumen, Elisha warned her to leave for the land of the Philistines. She quickly listened and left behind all her comforts. Such a leap of faith is unconventional in today’s culture which even influences Christianity and many would mock her for leaving her security for the unknown. But her trust in the Greater Provider was proven wise. Upon her return after seven years, her house and land were confiscated. She confidently approached King Jehoram, who was providentially hearing Elisha’s miracles including her story and her son’s resurrection. The king ordered the immediate restoration of all her belongings.
The Shunammite woman personifies selflessness and hospitality, humility and obedience, and hope and resilience in grief. Her positive faith in Yahweh terminates all bewildering thoughts and gives her confidence in God’s divine provision. She was so firmly rooted that God himself intervened through a prophet and a king. Today, Christians are encouraged to follow her example of faith and trust in God’s mighty works. Christians are privileged to have direct access to God’s throne through our Lord Christ Jesus, who is our boost and confidence even in the face of adversity, in whom we stand and only say, “It is well.”
Thank you for your good thoughts on the Shunammite woman. She really had a great faith. I love the reminder of her obedience to the prophet, because she trusted God. She was saved from famine, but not without acting on her faith first!
Thank u for your insightful words! What an amazing faith, that God himself intervened on this woman’s behalf through a prophet and a king. Such a wonderful reminder that “God is for us”.
The same story told in a way I haven’t heard before brings out details I haven’t paid attention to. Thank you
Thanks for your thoughts, Rachel. The account and faith of that woman has always amazed me.
This is a great article for encouraging all believers to KEEP BELIEVING. Jesus said to the women with the bleeding issue ” your faith has healed you”. Your faith. How God loves to see your faith. Thank you for your writing. 😊
Thank you for your insight. Faith is so important for those who are in the natural process of grieving. The woman grieves her loss and keeps her faith. It is a good reminder.
This is a wonderful article that reminds me to have full confidence in God and His ability to provide, even when we don’t understand what is is happening. Thank you for the encouragement!
Wow, what a wonderful article! 👏 Great Message
What a great reminder to confidently look to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and to say it “all as well” as we rest in him, knowing that he will handle the details.
I had never really noticed the way she used the words “it is well”. Thank you for your thoughts!