GOD’S HAND IN MEETING OTHERS’ NEEDS
2 Kings 4:8–17, 32–37
Recently, after conducting the funeral services of someone who had a profound impact on my life, the husband of the deceased extended his hand, which contained a monetary gift for me. “Absolutely not!” was my reply. I did my best to assure him it was my honor to lead in the memorial services of his sweet wife, and I would not take a dime. He then responded, “Oh yes, you are! She made me promise you would take this money.”
What else could I do but humbly receive the gift? She had invested in my ministry and my life since I was a 6-year-old student in the Sunday School class she taught, and in her mind, there was no reason not to extend her love to me one more time.
Each one of us is the result of the generosity of others. God gives us these wonderful people and their acts of kindness to encourage and remind us to be thankful. These expressions of grace toward us should also motivate us to do the same for others when we have the opportunity.
Look for opportunities to be a blessing to others. (8–10)
Elisha lived an incredible life, and the blessings of God were evident. In this account, he was passing through the area of Shunem, and a wealthy woman implored him to let her feed him.
She perceived him as a man God had set aside as His messenger, and she desired to bless Elisha on his journey. She was able to feed him and provide a place to stay. She and her husband set up a retreat for Elisha where he could find rest whenever he passed through their area.
God’s blessings come to us in surprising ways. (11–17)
Elisha was grateful and inquired how he might bless her in return. His servant informed him that she and her husband desired a son but were without one. Elisha called to her and told her she would soon bear a son. It was too much for the woman to believe. However, God used the words of Elisha, and a son was born to her.
This godly woman chose to serve Elisha from the goodness and abundance of her heart. She had no ulterior motives and sought nothing in return. Because of her pure intentions and hospitality, God blessed her with what she desired the most.
Trust in God’s power. (32–37)
Some years passed, and the son was working in the fields. After an intense headache, the boy died in his mother’s lap. She responded immediately with faith. She believed that if Elisha came to her, somehow everything would be OK. Elisha entered the home and saw for himself that the boy was dead. After some supernatural CPR, the boy came back to life. Of course, Elisha was simply a conduit for this miracle. It was the gracious heavenly Father who restored life to this child. By trusting in God, the mother called on Elisha, and by trusting in God, Elisha was once again a blessing.
This entire narrative began with a small gesture of bread for a man of God. It ends with a miracle. Just imagine how much your generosity can change someone’s life. We have all been given so much; take the time to share with others. God may use you to be the answer to another person’s prayer.
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi
