When the child had grown, he went out one day to his father among the reapers. And he said to his father, “Oh, my head, my head!” The father said to his servant, “Carry him to his mother.” And when he had lifted him and brought him to his mother, the child sat on her lap till noon, and then he died. And she went up and laid him on the bed of the man of God and shut the door behind him and went out. Then she called to her husband and said, “Send me one of the servants and one of the donkeys, that I may quickly go to the man of God and come back again.” And he said, “Why will you go to him today? It is neither new moon nor Sabbath.” She said, “All is well.” / 2 Kings 4: 18-23, ESV

In 2 Kings 4, we encounter the inspiring story of the Shunammite woman who demonstrated unwavering faith in the face of adversity. When Elisha, the prophet, asked her about her well-being, she confidently replied, "All is well." These three simple words hold profound wisdom for us today.

"All is well" is a declaration we can make while staring at an ugly, unfavorable present. It's something we get to say without any evidence that all is well.

Amid life's challenges, the Shunammite woman's response teaches us the importance of speaking our faith, even in the midst of difficulties. By declaring, "All is well," she refused to be defined by her circumstances. Instead, she acknowledged her trust in God's providence, regardless of the situation.

Yet, she didn't stop at mere words. She immediately put her faith into action (note: tomorrow and Wednesday, I'll write about how we know we're hearing God's voice and not our own when we get into action).

When the Shummanite woman's son fell critically ill and eventually died, she sought the prophet's help without delay. She didn't resign herself to despair but took courageous steps to seek a solution, clinging to her belief that all would be well.

It is essential to understand that faith without action is dead (inactive, inoperative). Get this: the Shunammite woman didn't simply pray and hope for a miracle; she acted upon her belief. Her actions demonstrated her trust in God's power and His willingness to intervene in her life.

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, in moments of uncertainty, help me to echo the faith-filled declaration of the Shunammite woman: "All is well." Strengthen my belief in Your unfailing love and providence. As I face challenges, prompt me to move beyond mere words and into action, knowing that You are with me. May I always remember that with You, all things are possible. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Reflection Questions

1. In what situation(s) do you need to declare, "All is well"?

2. Think about a recent challenge you faced. Did you take action in response to your faith? If not, what steps could you take in the future?

3. What are some practical ways you can encourage others to have faith in action when they are confronted with trials?

Hymn: It Is Well

Watch Sunday's Message:

Hymns for Spiritual Formation: It is Well

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