2 Kings 4:26 – “Run to meet her and ask her, ‘Are you all right? Is your husband all right? Is your child all right?’ ‘Everything is all right,’ she said.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Elisha, recognizing the urgency of the Shunammite woman’s approach, sends his servant Gehazi to inquire about her well-being. He asks three specific questions concerning her, her husband, and her child. These questions reveal Elisha’s concern, but the woman’s response—“Everything is all right”—is striking. Her son has just died, and yet she responds as if everything is under control. This response can be seen as an expression of her faith. Despite her grief, she is still focused on reaching Elisha, the man of God, trusting that he is the key to her son’s restoration. Her calm response contrasts with the gravity of her situation and demonstrates her deep confidence in God’s ability to intervene through His prophet.
Historical Context
During the time of the prophets, like Elisha, people often sought spiritual guidance and intervention from men of God, especially in desperate situations. It was common to turn to prophets for help with personal, family, or national crises. The Shunammite woman had already experienced God’s power through Elisha when she miraculously conceived her son. Now, with her son dead, she instinctively turns to the prophet again. Elisha’s questions reflect the importance of family in the ancient Near East, as well-being was often measured by the health and safety of one’s family members. The woman’s response, “Everything is all right,” may reflect her culture’s emphasis on faith and composure in difficult times, as well as her hope for divine intervention.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the importance of faith in the face of adversity. The Shunammite woman’s statement, “Everything is all right,” shows a profound trust in God’s ability to resolve the situation. Even though her circumstances are dire, she chooses to speak words of faith rather than despair. This reflects a broader biblical principle that faith involves trusting in God’s power and timing, even when the situation seems impossible. Her response can also be seen as an act of surrender, acknowledging that God is in control. Theologically, this teaches believers that faith is not just about belief but also about remaining steadfast and calm, even in the darkest moments.
Literary Analysis
Literarily, this verse creates suspense. The reader knows that the Shunammite woman’s son has died, yet she answers Elisha’s servant with a statement that implies everything is fine. This contrast heightens the tension in the story, as it builds toward the moment when she will fully reveal the gravity of her situation to Elisha. The structure of the verse—with Elisha asking specific, relational questions—underscores the centrality of family in the narrative. The repetition of the phrase “Is everything all right?” serves to emphasize the woman’s singular focus on her mission to reach Elisha, rather than getting caught up in emotional distress.
Biblical Cross-References
- Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God.” The Shunammite woman’s response reflects this principle of trusting in God’s sovereignty, even when the situation seems out of control.
- Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” Her faith in seeking Elisha, despite her son’s death, demonstrates a reliance on God’s wisdom and power rather than her immediate understanding of the situation.
- Mark 5:34: “He said to her, ‘Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.'” Like the woman in Mark who had faith in Jesus’ ability to heal, the Shunammite woman’s faith in God through Elisha plays a central role in the unfolding miracle.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse challenges us to consider how we respond in times of crisis. The Shunammite woman’s calm reply, “Everything is all right,” even when her world was falling apart, demonstrates a level of faith and trust in God that goes beyond circumstances. This teaches believers that faith is not just for the good times but also for moments of deep pain and loss. It encourages us to approach God with confidence and trust, believing that He can work in any situation. It also reminds us to focus on God’s power rather than becoming consumed by our immediate problems.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reveals God’s love in how He is attentive to the concerns of His people. Elisha’s concern for the woman and her family reflects God’s concern for our well-being. The Shunammite woman’s response, “Everything is all right,” shows her deep trust in God’s loving care, knowing that God, through Elisha, can make things right. God’s love is demonstrated through His readiness to act when we seek Him in faith. The fact that Elisha was waiting and ready to help mirrors how God is always ready to meet us in our moments of need.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The Shunammite woman’s trust in Elisha as a mediator between her and God foreshadows how believers are called to trust in Jesus as the ultimate mediator between God and humanity. Just as the woman believed that Elisha could bring about a miracle, Christians believe that Jesus has the power to bring life, healing, and restoration. In John 11:25, Jesus declares, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.” The woman’s faith in Elisha points to the kind of faith that Christians place in Jesus, who offers ultimate hope and victory over death.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the Shunammite woman’s calm response challenge the way you handle crises in your life? Do you trust God even when things seem hopeless?
- What steps can you take to strengthen your faith so that, like the Shunammite woman, you can declare “Everything is all right” even in difficult times?
- How does this verse encourage you to seek God’s help through prayer and trust in His power to act, even when the situation looks impossible?
- In what ways does the Shunammite woman’s faith in Elisha mirror your faith in Jesus as the one who brings life and restoration?