How does 2 Kings 4:7 encourage us to seek godly counsel in difficult situations? The Verse in Focus “She went and told the man of God, and he said, ‘Go, sell the oil and pay your debt, and you and your sons can live on the rest.’” — 2 Kings 4:7 What We See Happening • A desperate widow turns first to Elisha, “the man of God,” rather than relying on her own ideas. • She reports the miracle (the jars of overflowing oil) to him, seeking further direction. • Elisha offers clear, practical steps: sell the oil, settle the debt, live on the remainder. • The counsel directly answers her crisis and secures her family’s future. Why This Calls Us to Seek Godly Counsel • God’s provision often flows through His appointed servants (Ephesians 4:11–12). • The widow’s obedience reveals trust that divine wisdom is mediated through faithful leaders. • The narrative shows that revelation plus counsel equals complete deliverance; without Elisha’s instructions, the miracle could have been squandered. • Scripture consistently pairs crisis with counsel (Proverbs 11:14; 15:22). Timeless Principles • God expects us to bring both needs and victories back to Him through His representatives. • Wise, biblical counsel turns supernatural supply into sustainable living. • Spiritual authority is a blessing when it aligns with God’s Word. Practical Steps for Today 1. When a trial hits, resist isolation; reach out promptly to trusted, Bible-anchored mentors. 2. Share the full story, not just the problem—include God’s past faithfulness as the widow did. 3. Listen for counsel that is: • Rooted in Scripture • Specific and actionable • Focused on both immediate relief and long-term faithfulness 4. Follow through without delay; partial obedience hinders full blessing. 5. Return with a testimony, encouraging your counselors and glorifying God. Supporting Passages • “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” — Proverbs 15:22 • “Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked…” — Psalm 1:1 • “Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God…” — James 1:5 • “Remember your leaders who spoke the word of God to you.” — Hebrews 13:7 Living It Out • Identify two or three mature believers you can contact anytime a crisis surfaces. • Regularly rehearse God’s past interventions to them, inviting fresh insight. • Thank God for leaders who point you to Scripture-centered solutions—just as Elisha did for the widow. |
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