Obedience Before the Storm

The Bible in a Year

“The woman arose and did after the saying of the man of God; and she went with her household, and sojourned in the land of the Philistines seven years.” (2 Kings 8:2)

One of the clearest marks of spiritual maturity is the willingness to obey God before we understand all the reasons behind His instructions. The Shunammite woman stands as a remarkable example of that kind of faith. Having previously shown kindness to Elisha by providing a room for the prophet, she received a warning from God through him that a severe famine would come upon the land for seven years. She was instructed to leave her home and relocate until the famine passed. What makes her response so noteworthy is that there was no visible evidence of the coming crisis. The fields were still producing, daily life appeared normal, and no immediate danger could be seen. Yet she obeyed.

Her obedience was prompt. Scripture simply says, “The woman arose and did after the saying of the man of God.” There is no record of debate, delay, or negotiation. She trusted God’s word enough to act immediately. This reminds me of Noah, who began building an ark before a single raindrop had fallen, and of Joseph, who obeyed the angel’s instructions to take Mary as his wife despite public misunderstanding. God often calls His people to move forward by faith before circumstances make sense. As commentator Matthew Henry observed, “Those who have learned to trust God’s promises will not hesitate to obey His commands.” Faith frequently takes its first step before it sees the entire path.

Yet obedience was also painful. The Shunammite woman had to leave her home, her familiar surroundings, and likely many cherished relationships. Obedience often carries a cost. Jesus Himself taught this principle when He called His disciples to leave nets, occupations, and security in order to follow Him. Sometimes God leads us away from comfort zones not because He wishes to harm us, but because He intends to preserve and bless us. What appeared to be a sacrifice was actually God’s provision in advance. Looking back, she would discover that every difficult step had been guided by divine wisdom.

Her obedience was also prudent. At first glance, moving into Philistine territory may seem unusual. Throughout much of Israel’s history, Philistia represented opposition to God’s people. Yet in this situation, it was the wisest place to go. Situated near the Mediterranean coast, the region had access to resources and trade routes that would help sustain life during famine. The woman’s faith did not eliminate wisdom; it enhanced it. Genuine biblical faith is never reckless. It trusts God while making thoughtful decisions based on the opportunities God provides. Warren Wiersbe often noted that faith and wisdom are not enemies but companions when guided by God’s Word.

Finally, her obedience was patient. Seven years is a long time to wait. Many believers can obey God for a week, a month, or even a year, but enduring faithfully over a long season can be difficult. The Shunammite woman remained away exactly as long as God instructed. She neither returned early nor abandoned the assignment. Her example reminds us that obedience is not merely an event; it is a lifestyle. Galatians 6:9 echoes this truth: “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.”

As I reflect on this passage, I see a picture of discipleship that points us toward Christ. Jesus perfectly obeyed the Father, even when obedience led Him through suffering and ultimately to the cross. His faithfulness demonstrates that God’s purposes are always trustworthy, even when the road is difficult. The Shunammite woman’s story encourages us to obey promptly, endure patiently, choose wisely, and trust fully. God sees what we cannot yet see. Sometimes the greatest blessings arrive because we were willing to obey before the storm appeared.

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