Do you ever rush ahead of God’s plan and then, when you get stuck, ask for his help? We’re seeing that exact same thing happening here. As I’m reflecting on this passage about war against Moab, I’m watching the events unfold between present day Russia and Ukraine. It’s easy to get desensitized to war because it’s been happening over and over again since the Bible times. If you’re in the middle of it or have loved ones in harms way, then it’s a different story—you’re on the edge of your seat.
In our reading, we see how three kings have come together against one rebelling nation, Moab. But these leaders have rushed to get ready before asking God what they should do. Thank you, Jehoshaphat, King of Judah, for getting the others on board with finding the LORD’s solution.
Note that it was the three kings that went to seek out Elisha for counsel, not the other way around. I bet these leaders were a bit surprised with the prophet Elisha’s curt response to the king of Israel. “Why are you coming to me? Go to the pagan prophets of your father and mother!” This would be Elisha’s first opportunity to hear from the LORD with a battle message. Or, in this case, to solve their thirst issue first and foremost!
Elisha does come through with a word from the LORD, as well as the provision of water. I was curious though about how this all fits with what we read in Deuteronomy 2:9. In case you aren’t quite remembering either (I had to look it up), “the Lord warned us, ‘Do not bother the Moabites, the descendants of Lot, or start a war with them. I have given them Ar as their property, and I will not give you any of their land.’”
Elisha’s message from God says they’ll have victory over the Moabites, didn’t it? There was definitely a war started. This is how it will play out. “You will conquer the best of their towns, even the fortified ones. You will cut down all their good trees, stop up all their springs, and ruin all their good land with stones.” We always need to be listening for and/or seeking the LORD’s voice.
Three armies against one—that’s a lot of firepower! What we’re seeing in our present-day conflict is one nation against one nation. However, the one under attack has many nations around the world praying for a safe and peaceful resolution. Even people from the attacking army’s own country are appalled at what is happening.
It’s hard to know what the Russian leader is thinking. I doubt he consulted God for direction, but he could have. There do seem to be some religious undertones in this conflict. Do we see any of the abuse of power we see happening today played out in our story against Moab?
What can we take away from what’s happening to Moab? For me, it’s a good reminder that it’s never too late to ask for God’s help, but it’s a better choice to ask first for God’s help and direction! We can probably all remember a time when we had to back pedal a bit and ask God to bless our mess or rescue us from it.
Take some time to think about what you’ve got coming up in the next 30-90 days. A trip, a business launch, a wedding, buying a new car, a job change, etc. Is God part of the planning?
Let’s pray …
Lord, protect people in harms way from the evil in this world. May they see that their hope is in you. I thank you that we can come to you at any time and ask for your guidance and blessing of provision. You always want what’s best for us. Forgive me for those times when I have rushed ahead in planning something without asking you first. I feel like such a juvenile when I do that and realize it. Thank you for loving me anyway. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
