2 Kings 4:26

Run now, I pray thee, to meet her, and say unto her, Is it well with thee? is it well with thy husband? is it well with the child? And she answered, It is well.

2 Kings 4:26 (KJV)

Context

Earlier in 2 Kings 4:8-17, the Shunammite woman shows hospitality to Elisha, and God gives her a son. Later the child dies. The grieving mother rides to find Elisha, who sends Gehazi to ask about her family’s welfare.

Meaning

Elisha asks three times, “Is it well?” The Hebrew word for “well” is “shalom,” meaning completeness, wholeness, and peace. The woman answers, “It is well,” even though her son is dead. She does not deny her pain. Instead, she speaks peace because she trusts God’s sovereign care, not because her circumstances look good. Her response is a remarkable declaration of faith and composure in deep tragedy.

Biblical connections

Her response echoes the faith that speaks peace in trouble. She does not stop at words; she actively pursues the man of God. Her confession of peace is rooted in her relationship with God, not in what she sees. This mirrors the trust believers are called to have when facing trials. True peace is found in pursuing God and His prophet.

Application

Elisha’s inquiry models genuine concern for others. Believers should ask about the well-being of family and friends with real care. The woman’s answer challenges us to examine whether our peace depends on circumstances or on God’s character. We can honestly share our struggles while still declaring trust in God’s control. Her faith was not passive; she actively sought the man of God.

Reflection

When life brings sudden loss, can we say “It is well“? This is not pretending everything is fine. It is a deliberate choice to trust that God is at work even when we cannot see the outcome. The Shunammite woman’s faith was not passive; she sought God’s help. Her example encourages us to bring our pain to God and confess peace because of who He is, not because of what we see.