2 Kings 7:9
Then they said one to another, We do not well: this day is a day of good tidings, and we hold our peace: if we tarry till the morning light, some mischief will come upon us: now therefore come, that we may go and tell the king’s household.
2 Kings 7:9 (KJV)
Context
Samaria was under siege by the Aramean army, and famine gripped the city. Four lepers, forced to live outside the gates, went to the enemy camp hoping for food or mercy. They found it deserted. The Lord had made the Arameans hear the sound of chariots and horses, so they fled in panic, leaving behind food, silver, gold, and clothing. The lepers began to take and hide these treasures for themselves.
Meaning
In verse 9, the lepers stop and speak to one another. They say, “We do not well.” This is a simple but powerful admission. They recognize that keeping the good news to themselves is wrong. They call this day “a day of good tidings,” a time of great joy and deliverance. They also understand that if they wait until morning, “some mischief” will come upon them. Their conscience troubles them, and they fear punishment for silence. So they decide to go and tell the king’s household.
The lepers’ words show a change of heart. Earlier they hoarded the spoils, but now they see that their own gain is not enough. They have a moral and spiritual duty to share what they found. Their fear of delay warns against putting off what is right. The phrase “we do not well” is an honest confession that applies to anyone who receives good news but keeps it to himself.
Biblical connections
This verse connects to the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20, where Jesus sends His followers to make disciples of all nations. Just as the lepers were sent to tell the king’s household, believers are sent to share the gospel. The lepers’ urgency also echoes James 1:17, which teaches that every good and perfect gift comes from God. When we receive such gifts, we should respond with gratitude and share them, not hoard them.
Application
The lepers teach us three practical lessons. First, be grateful for the blessings God gives, even after hardship. Second, do not keep the good news of salvation to yourself. The gospel is meant to be shared, and silence can bring guilt and harm. Third, act promptly when you have an opportunity to do good. Procrastination can cause others to miss the help they need.
Gratitude: Recognize that every blessing comes from God and thank Him.
Sharing: Tell others about the hope and freedom found in Jesus Christ.
Action: Do not delay in doing what is right, for delay can lead to missed opportunities.
Reflection
The lepers had every natural reason to keep the resources for themselves. They were poor, outcast, and hungry. Yet they chose to share the news with the very people who had excluded them. This challenges us to examine our own hearts. Do we hold back the good news because we are comfortable or afraid? Do we wait for a more convenient time? The lepers remind us that the joy of good tidings grows when it is shared. Their decision to tell the king’s household changed the fate of the whole city. Our willingness to share the gospel can change the lives of those around us.
