The story of the Shunammite woman and her husband is a testament to hospitality, faith, and unwavering love. Though the Bible does not reveal their names, their actions demonstrate a deep bond of mutual respect, generosity, and trust in God’s power. Their love was not just for each other but also for the work of God, and they were blessed because of it.
1. A Home Filled with Generosity
2 Kings 4:8 – “One day Elisha went to Shunem. And a well-to-do woman was there, who urged him to stay for a meal. So whenever he came by, he stopped there to eat.”
The Shunammite woman was hospitable and recognized the importance of serving God’s prophet, Elisha. This reflects the love and generosity she and her husband shared, opening their home for God’s work. Their love was marked by a willingness to bless others together.
2. Building a Sacred Space
2 Kings 4:9-10 – “She said to her husband, ‘I know that this man who often comes our way is a holy man of God. Let’s make a small room on the roof and put in it a bed and a table, a chair and a lamp for him. Then he can stay there whenever he comes to us.’”
The Shunammite woman and her husband worked together to create a special place for Elisha, showing their unity and shared faith. A strong marriage is built on serving God together and making room for His presence in the home.
3. A Reward for Their Faithfulness
2 Kings 4:13-14 – “Elisha said to him, ‘Tell her, you have gone to all this trouble for us. Now, what can be done for you?’” … “Gehazi said, ‘She has no son, and her husband is old.’”
They were selfless in their giving, not expecting anything in return. Yet, God saw their faithfulness and prepared to bless them in a way they never imagined. Love that is built on selfless generosity often leads to unexpected blessings.
4. A Promise Fulfilled
2 Kings 4:16-17 – “Then Elisha said, ‘About this time next year, you will hold a son in your arms.’ ‘No, my lord!’ she objected. ‘Please, man of God, don’t mislead your servant!’ But the woman became pregnant, and the next year, about that same time, she gave birth to a son, just as Elisha had told her.”
Even when the promise seemed too good to be true, God fulfilled it. This reminds us that God rewards faithfulness in His perfect timing. A loving and faith-filled marriage can be the foundation for miracles.
5. Tragedy Strikes
2 Kings 4:18-20 – “The child grew, and one day he went out to his father, who was with the reapers. He said to his father, ‘My head! My head!’ His father told a servant, ‘Carry him to his mother.’ After the servant had lifted him up and carried him to his mother, the boy sat on her lap until noon, and then he died.”
The loss of their promised child was devastating. Yet, the husband and wife did not turn against each other in grief. Instead, the Shunammite woman chose to act in faith, believing that God had the final say. In marriage, supporting each other through pain is essential.
6. A Bold Step of Faith
2 Kings 4:22-23 – “She called her husband and said, ‘Please send me one of the servants and a donkey so I can go to the man of God quickly and return.’ ‘Why go to him today?’ he asked. ‘It’s not the New Moon or the Sabbath.’ ‘That’s all right,’ she said.”
Though her husband was uncertain, he trusted her decision. This shows the importance of believing in each other’s faith. Sometimes, one spouse may be stronger in faith during trials, and the other must support them.
7. A Miracle Restores Their Son
2 Kings 4:32-35 – “When Elisha reached the house, there was the boy lying dead on his couch. He went in, shut the door on the two of them and prayed to the Lord… The boy sneezed seven times and opened his eyes.”
Their faith and hospitality led to the miraculous restoration of their son. This teaches us that a marriage grounded in faith and service to God can overcome any trial, even the darkest moments.