The Prophet ElishaShembull

Elisha as a Political Advisor in Times of Trouble

“While the harpist was playing, the hand of the Lord came on Elisha and he said, […] ‘This is an easy thing in the eyes of the Lord; He will also deliver Moab into your hands.’” (2 Kings 3:15-18)

The kings of Israel, Judah and Edom were planning to fight against the kingdom of Moab. They gathered their armies and made a roundabout march of seven days. But then they got into trouble for a lack of water and searched for “a prophet of the Lord” to help them. Elisha happened to be there, so he was asked for advice. Initially, Elisha was not too eager to get involved, since only one of these kings was faithful to the Lord God. He objected, “Why do you want to involve me? Go to the prophets of your father and the prophets of your mother.”

However, for the sake of king Jehoshaphat Elisha gave in, and God showed His mercy on the three armies. He provided water in abundance and gave them victory over the Moabites.

The Bible contains many stories where God answers the prayers of people who do not serve Him wholeheartedly. (Which does not imply they shouldn’t repent!) The Lord is so gracious that He “causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous” (Matthew 5:45).

How do you feel about the fact that God often blesses people who “don’t deserve it”?