691. 2KI 4:8-13. ELISHA, AND THE WOMAN OF SHUNEM

2Ki_4:8-13. Elisha, and the Woman of Shunem

"And it fell on a day, that Elisha passed to Shunem, where was a great woman; and she constrained him to eat bread. And so it was, that as oft as he passed by, he turned in thither to eat bread. And she said unto her husband, Behold, now, I perceive that this is an holy man of God, which passeth by us continually," &c.’972Ki_4:8-13.

Man is a creature of boundless desires. Hence, when these desires are directed to earthly things, it is impossible that they should meet with perfect satisfaction.

The man who craves for power and dominion is never contented with what he has; and like Alexander the Great, if he conquers one world, would still desire another.

A man who thirsts for earthly distinctions, never reaches the pinnacle of popularity which perfectly satisfies him.

The covetous man, who seeks the acquisition of wealth, never feels that he has plenty; but would ever be gathering more and more.

The man of pleasure finds that earthly gratifications, like salt water, only increases his desires, and inflames his appetites. God alone can satisfy the longings of the soul. He is an infinite good. Hence the Psalmist prays, "Oh, satisfy us early with thy goodness," &c. "Delight thyself in the Lord," &c. "The Lord is my portion," &c.

How beautifully these remarks are illustrated, in the history of the woman of Shunem.

Let us read and expound the narrative; 2Ki_4:8, &c.

I. True piety will lead to a generous and hospitable treatment of God’s servants.

Here was Elisha, God’s servant, on his religious journeys, passing and repassing through the village of Shunem. An excellent woman observes it,’97invites him to be her guest,’97considers his wants. "Constrained" him. Her heart was in the work. It was from a true and noble generosity.

It was repeated.

It was permanent.

It was considerate, and connected with sacrifice; 2Ki_4:9.

It was plain, and unostentatious. Real, solid kindness, and not that of mere glitter and show. Observe how this spirit of the woman of Shunem accords,

(1.) With Scripture examples. See the instance of Abraham and the angels: Gen_18:1-8.

The case of Abraham’s servant, who received the cordial invitation from Laban, "Come thou blessed of the Lord," &c.

We see, too, the kindly regard paid to the Saviour, by the holy and happy family at Bethany.

The case of Lydia, too, who opened her house, &c., for the Apostles at Corinth. See also 2Ti_1:16.

It accords,

(2.) With Scripture exhortations.

"Be not unmindful to entertain strangers," &c. "Given to hospitality."

"Do good unto all men," &c. One of the many qualifications required in those who should receive the pecuniary aid of the Church, was of this kind: 1Ti_5:9.

"Be ready to every good work."

II. Unfeigned gratitude is one of the essential features of godliness.

Gratitude to God, and also gratitude to men. The two must be united. There may be gratitude to men, without gratitude to God; but there never is gratitude to God, without gratitude to men. Ingratitude is a base feeling. One of the grossest signs of our depravity. The inferior creatures evidence their gratitude for favors conferred; so that an ungrateful man sinks lower than the brute. Religion cherishes this principle. It elevates it. Makes it manifestly more tender, and fervent, and sincere. See how it glowed in the prophet’s heart; 2Ki_4:13. Hence, we learn that gratitude will endeavor to return the kindness bestowed. Love begets love,’97gratitude produces the fruits of gratitude.

III. Religion leads to contentment with our present position.

2Ki_4:13.

The woman of Shunem has no inordinate desires’97no ambitious projects.

Her mercies equal her wants.

She prefers a secluded, to a showy life.

Her own dwelling to a palace.

Mediocrity to affluence.

Her own plain people, to the society of the rich and the great.

What wisdom there was in this!

What solid piety! Let us see,

What might she have gained by removal?

Riches’97honors’97pleasures. What lost?

1. Her humble independency.

2. Her sweet retirements.

3. Her friendly societies.

4. Most of all, her peace and satisfaction of mind.

Her snares and anxieties would have been increased. See the case of Lot; Gen. xiii.

5. Two passages are illustrated, Pro_30:8, &c., and "Be content with," &c. Let me add another, "Godliness with contentment," &c.

Now, how may this spirit be produced?

Reflect how little you really need.

How uncertain the lease of life.

How superior are spiritual enjoyments.

How infinitely to be desired, the blessings of heaven. "Set your affections," &c.

Application

We address the subject,

1. To the discontented and unhappy. Seek satisfaction in religion.

2. To the people of God who may mourn and be fretful.

Contemplate the woman of Shunem, &c. Seek her spirit, and follow in her steps.

Autor: JABEZ BURNS