2 Kings 6:22
“And he answered, Thou shalt not smite them: wouldest thou smite those whom thou hast taken captive with thy sword and with thy bow? set bread and water before them, that they may eat and drink, and go to their master.”
Historical Context:The book of 2 Kings is a historical account of the kings of Israel and Judah. In this particular chapter, the prophet Elisha is the main focus. During his time, the nation of Israel was divided into two kingdoms: the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah.
Background:In the preceding verses (2 Kings 6:8-21), the king of Syria had been plotting against Israel, but God revealed his plans to Elisha. Elisha’s servant was terrified when he saw the Syrian army surrounding the city. However, Elisha prayed to God, and the Lord opened the servant’s eyes to see the mountains full of horses and chariots of fire, providing protection for them.
The Surrender of the Syrian Army:As the Syrian army approached, Elisha prayed to the Lord, asking Him to strike the Syrian soldiers with blindness. God answered his prayer, and Elisha led the blinded army to Samaria, the capital of Israel.
Elisha’s Response:When the army was surrounded in Samaria, Elisha was presented with an opportunity to seek revenge or harm them. However, his response is unexpected. Instead of taking advantage of their vulnerable state, Elisha advises the king of Israel not to kill them. He instructs the king to provide bread and water to the captive soldiers, allowing them to eat and drink before returning to their master.
Lessons from Elisha’s Actions:
Love and Mercy:Elisha’s actions demonstrate a compassionate and merciful response to his enemies. He chose not to retaliate with violence or seek revenge. Instead, he extended kindness and hospitality to those who had sought to harm Israel.
Overcoming Evil with Good:Elisha’s approach aligns with the teaching of Jesus in the New Testament, where He instructs His followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them (Matthew 5:44). Elisha’s act of kindness towards the Syrians served as a powerful witness, displaying the principle of overcoming evil with good.
God’s Justice:By allowing the Syrians to return to their master unharmed, Elisha displayed trust in God’s justice. He recognized that it was not his role to execute judgment but to leave it in God’s hands.
Reflection on God’s Power:Elisha’s earlier prayer for his servant’s eyes to be opened revealed God’s supernatural power and protection. It reminded Elisha, the servant, and the readers of the passage of God’s ability to intervene and guide them through challenging circumstances.
