2 Kings 13 describes the reigns of Jehoahaz and Joash (also known as Jehoash) over Israel. Jehoahaz succeeds his father Jehu as king and rules for 17 years. During his reign, he does evil in the eyes of the Lord by following the sins of Jeroboam, and as a result, Israel suffers under the oppression of the Arameans. However, Jehoahaz seeks the Lord’s favor, and the Lord listens to him, providing a deliverer for Israel. Despite this, Israel remains idolatrous (2 Kings 13:1-9).

Jehoahaz’s son, Joash, becomes king after him and reigns for 16 years. Like his father, Joash also does evil in the eyes of the Lord. Nevertheless, under Joash’s rule, the prophet Elisha becomes ill and dies. Before his death, Elisha instructs Joash to strike the ground with arrows, symbolizing future victories over Aram. Joash strikes the ground three times, which Elisha interprets as a limited number of victories (2 Kings 13:10-19).

After Elisha’s death, a miraculous event occurs when a dead man is revived after his body touches Elisha’s bones. This miracle signifies the enduring power of God’s presence through Elisha even after his death (2 Kings 13:20-21).

The chapter concludes with Joash recapturing cities from Ben-Hadad, the king of Aram, fulfilling the promise of limited victories predicted by Elisha (2 Kings 13:22-25).

Life Applications from 2 Kings 13

1. Seeking God’s Favor in Times of Trouble:

• Verse 4: Jehoahaz sought the Lord’s favor, and despite his previous sins, the Lord listened to him and provided a deliverer for Israel. This teaches the importance of turning to God in times of distress and seeking His mercy, regardless of past mistakes.

1. Partial Obedience and Its Consequences:

• Verses 18-19: Joash’s limited obedience in striking the ground only three times resulted in limited victories. This illustrates the significance of complete obedience to God’s instructions and how partial obedience can lead to incomplete blessings.

1. God’s Mercy and Faithfulness:

• Verse 23: Despite Israel’s continuous disobedience, God remained merciful and faithful to His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This demonstrates that God’s mercy and faithfulness are enduring, even when His people fall short.

1. Legacy and Influence of Godly Leaders:

• Verses 20-21: The revival of the dead man who touched Elisha’s bones highlights the lasting impact of godly individuals. It encourages believers to live in a way that leaves a positive, enduring influence on others.

1. God’s Power Beyond Death:

• Verse 21: The miracle associated with Elisha’s bones reminds us that God’s power transcends death. It provides hope and assurance of God’s ability to work miracles and bring life out of death.

By reflecting on these life applications, individuals can find guidance on seeking God’s favor, the importance of complete obedience, understanding God’s mercy, and recognizing the enduring influence of a godly life.