They Ate and Drank and Were Sent Away
“18 As the enemy came down toward him, Elisha prayed to the Lord, “Strike this army with blindness.” So he struck them with blindness, as Elisha had asked.
19 Elisha told them, “This is not the road and this is not the city. Follow me, and I will lead you to the man you are looking for.” And he led them to Samaria.
20 After they entered the city, Elisha said, “Lord, open the eyes of these men so they can see.” Then the Lord opened their eyes and they looked, and there they were, inside Samaria.
21 When the king of Israel saw them, he asked Elisha, “Shall I kill them, my father? Shall I kill them?”
22 “Do not kill them,” he answered. “Would you kill those you have captured with your own sword or bow? Set food and water before them so that they may eat and drink and then go back to their master.” 23 So he prepared a great feast for them, and after they had finished eating and drinking, he sent them away, and they returned to their master. So the bands from Aram stopped raiding Israel’s territory.”
Elisha lived and ministered during the Omri dynasty—considered one of the most wicked in the history of Northern Israel. Despite the nation’s political and economic strength, it was in severe spiritual decline. Following the ministry of Elijah, Elisha not only proclaimed God’s word but also demonstrated God’s power through various miracles. Today’s passage describes how Elisha dealt with the Aramean army.
The king of Aram, determined to capture Elisha—who had been helping Israel—sent a large force to Dothan. Terrified at the sight of this army, Elisha’s servant panicked, but Elisha trusted in God’s protection. Elisha led the Aramean soldiers to Samaria. When the king of Israel asked if he should destroy them, Elisha instructed him not to kill them but to offer them a meal and send them home. Remarkably, after experiencing such kindness, the Arameans ceased their attacks on Israel.
Elisha’s actions were not mere benevolence but were firmly grounded in God’s grace. Confident in God’s help, he had already perceived the heavenly armies—horses and chariots of fire—protecting him. Thus, one who truly grasps the depth of God’s grace can extend forgiveness and mercy to enemies. Elisha did not forgive because he was strong in himself; rather, he lived graciously because he was filled with God’s grace.
As we reflect on Christmas, we remember how God’s love and salvation have renewed us. God sent His Son to forgive our sins and bring us salvation. Remembering this wondrous grace, we too should practice grace toward those around us and live a life that shares God’s love. In particular, as we close out the year, let us think of those we need to forgive or from whom we need forgiveness, and strive to show them the grace we have received.
Prayer: Lord, we thank You for safeguarding and leading us with Your precious and abundant grace every day. As recipients of this grace, help us to live lives that reflect it. Guide us especially to extend grace to those with whom we have strained relationships or find difficult to deal with, and empower us by Your Spirit as we commit to do so. May Your marvelous works be evident among Your children who choose to walk in obedience to Your call. Amen.
(Note: This summary was created based on an AI draft.)
Devotional content is available on the Our Daily Bread website.