2 Kings 4:23 – “‘Why go to him today?’ he asked. ‘It’s not the New Moon or the Sabbath.’ ‘That’s all right,’ she said.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, the Shunammite woman requests to visit Elisha, the man of God, and her husband responds with confusion. He doesn’t understand why she would need to go to Elisha outside of the traditional times of worship or spiritual consultation, such as the New Moon or the Sabbath. The New Moon and Sabbath were specific times set aside for worship, reflection, and seeking guidance from prophets or priests. His question reveals his lack of awareness of the gravity of the situation—the death of their son. However, the Shunammite woman, driven by her faith and urgency, simply responds, “That’s all right,” or in some translations, “It will be well,” showing her trust in God’s ability to handle the crisis.
Historical Context
In ancient Israel, the New Moon and the Sabbath were significant religious observances. The New Moon marked the beginning of the lunar month and was often a time for offerings and consultation with prophets. The Sabbath, of course, was the day of rest and worship. People would often go to prophets like Elisha for guidance during these times, seeking spiritual direction. The husband’s question reflects this cultural norm—he assumes there’s no need to visit the prophet since it isn’t a holy day. His practical approach contrasts with the woman’s deep spiritual insight, as she understands that this crisis goes beyond ordinary religious observances.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse speaks to the difference between routine religious practice and urgent, personal faith. The Shunammite woman’s actions show that faith in God is not confined to specific times or rituals. Her husband seems focused on the traditional times for seeking God, while she recognizes that God can be called upon in any situation, at any time. This demonstrates a powerful lesson for believers: faith isn’t just about following rituals or attending services, but about seeking God wholeheartedly, especially in moments of personal crisis. The woman’s calm response, “It will be well,” shows her deep trust in God’s provision, even before she sees the outcome.
Literary Analysis
Literarily, this verse introduces an interesting contrast between the Shunammite woman and her husband. His focus is on religious formality, while her faith transcends the boundaries of ritual. The phrase “It’s not the New Moon or the Sabbath” hints at a lack of understanding about the urgency of the situation, adding tension to the narrative. The woman’s response, “That’s all right,” is brief but full of meaning. Her calm, determined faith contrasts with her husband’s confusion, showing that she has already decided to trust in God’s ability to intervene through Elisha. The tension builds as the reader anticipates what will happen when she reaches Elisha.
Biblical Cross-References
- Isaiah 55:6: “Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near.” The Shunammite woman’s urgency reflects this call to seek God in every moment, not just during religious observances.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:17: “Pray continually.” Her desire to go to Elisha at a non-traditional time reflects the idea that believers are called to seek God in prayer at all times, not just during formal religious gatherings.
- Psalm 46:1: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” The woman’s actions reflect this belief—she turns to God for help in her time of deepest need, trusting in His strength.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse offers a valuable lesson about faith that goes beyond routine. The Shunammite woman’s story teaches us that seeking God is not limited to specific times, like attending church on Sundays or praying only during designated moments. Her actions remind us that we can come to God in any situation, especially when facing personal crises. Her quiet confidence in saying, “That’s all right,” encourages believers to trust God fully, even when others may not understand the urgency of our need. It’s a call to have faith that God can intervene in every aspect of our lives, regardless of tradition or timing.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse highlights God’s availability to His people. The Shunammite woman’s determination to seek Elisha, God’s prophet, shows her deep belief that God is not bound by human schedules or traditions. She understands that God’s love and power are available at all times. Her willingness to go immediately to the prophet reflects her trust in God’s continual presence and readiness to act. God’s love is demonstrated through the fact that He is always near, always available, and always willing to respond to those who seek Him in faith.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to the teachings of Jesus about faith and persistence. In Luke 18:1-8, Jesus tells the parable of the persistent widow, who continually seeks justice from an unjust judge until she receives it. Like the Shunammite woman, the widow refuses to give up, showing her determination and trust. Jesus encourages His followers to have the same kind of persistent faith, knowing that God, who is far more just than any human judge, will respond. The Shunammite woman’s faith reflects the kind of trust and persistence that Jesus calls His followers to embrace, seeking God in every situation and trusting in His power to act.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How do you respond when others don’t understand the urgency of your need to seek God, as the Shunammite woman’s husband didn’t grasp the situation?
- What does this verse teach you about the importance of seeking God in every moment, not just during formal religious practices?
- Have you ever faced a situation where you needed to act in faith, even when others questioned or didn’t understand your urgency?
- How can this verse encourage you to have greater trust in God’s availability and willingness to help in times of personal crisis?