Devotional: Shoulda, Coulda, Woulda

In 2 Kings 13:14-19, we find a story of the prophet Elisha instructing King Jehoash on how to conquer a stronghold. What’s most striking about the story, though, is that the Lord, through Elisha, gave very simple instructions. Jehoash, though he began to follow them, didn’t follow through completely with what was asked. In other words, he didn’t trust what God has said to him. As a result, he was left wondering what should have been, what could have been, and what would have been had he trusted God.

Questions for Meditation

1. What made the Lord’s instructions to Jehoash simple? Why is it difficult sometimes to follow simple instructions from the Lord?
2. Where do we find God’s instructions and promises for our life? What happens when we receive from the Word, as opposed to other sources?
3. Has there ever been a time in your life when you received a promise from God but you ceased to trust God and didn’t see the fulfillment?
4. Why was Elisha angry with Jehoash? What was Jehoash supposed to do, and what does that show about Jehoash? What are some ways that we become like Jehoash in this regard?
5. What are some arrows–promises from God’s Word–that He has given you?
6. In what areas of your life are you supposed to aim the arrows of God’s Word toward victory?