Hospitality That Speaks Part 2
Hospitality That Speaks Part 2
Author: Ayodeji Oludapo
Date: February 12, 2025
Scripture: "And it came to pass at the seven years' end, that the woman returned out of the land of the Philistines: and she went forth to cry unto the king for her house and for her land. And when the king asked the woman, she told him. So the king appointed unto her a certain officer, saying, Restore all that was hers, and all the fruits of the field since the day that she left the land, even until now." – 2 Kings 8:3,6
Devotional Thoughts
Yesterday, we reflected on the hospitality of the Shunammite woman and how her kindness to the prophet Elisha resulted in the miraculous gift of a son and his later resurrection. Today, we see how her hospitality continued to speak for her, even years later.
When famine was about to strike the land, Elisha warned her to relocate, and she obeyed. After seven years, she returned only to find that she had lost her home and land. But at the very moment she approached the king to plead for her property, Gehazi, Elisha’s servant, was narrating her story! Her hospitality positioned her for divine favour once again, and the king immediately restored not only her land but also the income from it during her absence.
This story reminds us that acts of hospitality, kindness, and service never go unnoticed by God. What we sow in generosity, we reap in divine provision and favour. The Shunammite woman’s hospitality didn’t just bring her a son; it provided her with a legacy of blessings and restoration.
My dad once shared a story of how his brother’s kindness spoke for him during a crucial moment. A critical decision was about to be made against him in a case involving the state government. However, just at the right time, someone unexpectedly walked in, recognized my dad's name, and linked it to his brother's reputation for kindness. This connection miraculously turned the decision in my dad’s favour.
Practical Reflection
Hospitality creates lasting impact. The good we do today can open doors of favour in the future. Are you extending kindness with a willing heart, trusting God to bless you in ways beyond your imagination?
God takes care of His people. Just as Elisha’s warning spared the woman from famine, God can guide us away from trouble if we stay connected to Him. Are you attentive to God’s direction in your life?
Restoration follows obedience. Even after a season of loss, God can restore everything in His perfect timing. What areas of your life need God’s restoring touch today?
Closing Thoughts
Hospitality is not just about giving; it is about aligning ourselves with God's divine purpose. The Shunammite woman did not serve Elisha with expectations of blessings, yet God rewarded her abundantly. When we serve God and others with a pure heart, we invite His favour into our lives, often in ways we could never predict.
No act of kindness is ever wasted. Even if years pass, what you have sown in faith will speak for you when you need it most. Trust in God's perfect timing—what you thought was lost can be restored beyond what you imagined!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for showing us through the story of the Shunammite woman that hospitality, kindness, and obedience open doors to Your favour and restoration. Help us to be generous in heart, faithful in serving, and sensitive to Your guidance. May every good seed we sow in love bear fruit in due season. Restore what has been lost in our lives and align us with divine opportunities. In Jesus’ name, Amen.