2 Kings 8:1

Now Elisha had said to the woman whose son he had restored to life, "Arise, you and your household; go and live as a foreigner wherever you can. For the LORD has decreed a seven-year famine, and it has already come to the land."

Study Bible

Now Elisha
The name Elisha means "God is salvation" in Hebrew, reflecting his role as a prophet who brings God's messages and interventions to the people of Israel. Elisha was a disciple and successor of Elijah, and his ministry was marked by numerous miracles, demonstrating God's power and presence among His people. His actions often prefigured the work of Christ, who also brought life and hope.

had said
This phrase indicates a past action, suggesting that Elisha's words were a prophetic warning given in advance. Prophets in the Old Testament were often called to deliver messages from God, sometimes foretelling future events. This highlights the role of prophecy in guiding and protecting God's people.

to the woman
This refers to the Shunammite woman, a figure of faith and hospitality. She had previously shown kindness to Elisha by providing him with a place to stay, and in return, God blessed her with a son. Her account is a testament to the blessings that come from serving God's messengers and trusting in His promises.

whose son he had restored to life
This miraculous event, where Elisha raised the woman's son from the dead, is a powerful demonstration of God's authority over life and death. It prefigures the resurrection power of Jesus Christ and serves as a reminder of God's compassion and ability to restore what is lost.

Arise, and go with your household
Elisha's command is urgent and protective, urging the woman to take immediate action for her safety. The call to "arise" signifies a change in status or situation, often used in Scripture to denote a call to action or a new beginning. It reflects God's care for His people, providing guidance and protection in times of trouble.

and stay wherever you can
This phrase suggests flexibility and trust in God's provision. The woman is advised to find refuge wherever possible, indicating that God's protection is not limited to a specific location. It emphasizes the need for faith and reliance on God's guidance during uncertain times.

for the LORD has decreed
The use of "decreed" underscores the sovereignty of God over the affairs of nations and nature. It is a reminder that God is in control, and His plans and purposes will prevail. This decree is not arbitrary but serves a divine purpose, often calling His people to repentance and reliance on Him.

a famine in the land
Famine in the Bible is often a sign of God's judgment or a call to repentance. It serves as a reminder of human dependence on God for sustenance and life. Historically, famines were devastating, affecting entire communities and economies, and they often prompted people to seek God's mercy and provision.

that will last seven years
The number seven in the Bible often symbolizes completeness or perfection. A seven-year famine indicates a complete period of trial, during which God's people are called to trust in His provision and timing. It serves as a test of faith and an opportunity for spiritual growth and reliance on God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elisha
A prophet of God who succeeded Elijah. Known for performing miracles and providing guidance to the kings of Israel.

2. The Shunammite Woman
A woman from Shunem whose son Elisha had previously restored to life. She is a figure of faith and obedience.

3. The Famine
A seven-year period of scarcity decreed by the LORD, affecting the land and its people.

4. The LORD
The sovereign God who decrees events and guides His people through His prophets.

5. The Land
Refers to the region of Israel, which is subject to the famine as part of God's divine plan.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Provision
God is in control of all events, including famines. He provides guidance and protection to those who trust in Him, as seen in His warning to the Shunammite woman through Elisha.

Faith and Obedience
The Shunammite woman's response to Elisha's warning demonstrates her faith and obedience. Believers are called to trust and act upon God's guidance, even when it requires significant change or sacrifice.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets in the Bible serve as God's messengers, revealing His will and guiding His people. Today, believers can seek God's guidance through Scripture and prayer.

Preparation for Trials
Just as the Shunammite woman was warned to prepare for the famine, believers should be spiritually prepared for trials, trusting in God's provision and timing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of the Shunammite woman in 2 Kings 8:1 demonstrate the importance of listening to God's guidance through His prophets?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty in the events of 2 Kings 8:1, and how does this encourage us in our own lives?

3. How does the Shunammite woman's obedience to Elisha's warning serve as an example for us when facing difficult decisions or uncertain futures?

4. What parallels can we draw between the seven-year famine in 2 Kings 8:1 and other biblical accounts of famine, such as in Genesis 41, and what lessons can we learn from these events?

5. How can we apply the principle of being spiritually prepared for trials, as seen in the Shunammite woman's account, to our own lives today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 4:8-37
This passage recounts the account of Elisha raising the Shunammite woman's son from the dead, establishing the relationship between Elisha and the woman.

Genesis 41:25-36
Joseph interprets Pharaoh's dream about seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine, showing a pattern of God using famine for His purposes.

Amos 3:7
This verse highlights that God reveals His plans to His prophets, as seen in Elisha's warning to the Shunammite woman.