A Great Woman
By Senior Pastor Dr. Bill Rains | May 12, 2024
Open your Bibles to II Kings 4:8-17. Let’s pray: Father, thank You for this great host today—first-time and returning guests, and the precious mothers at Mission Baptist. Each one is dear in Your eyes and ours. Make this a joyous day for them, showing our love. May this story of a great woman, her husband, and her child encourage us all, in Jesus’ name, Amen.
In II Kings 4, it fell on a day, that Elisha passed to Shunem, where was a great woman; and she constrained him to eat bread. Recognizing Elisha as an holy man of God, she told her husband, Let us make a little chamber…with a bed, and a table, and a stool, and a candlestick. Elisha rested there, and, moved by her care, asked via Gehazi, What is to be done for thee? She declined favor with the king, saying, I dwell among mine own people. Gehazi noted her barrenness, and Elisha promised, About this season…thou shalt embrace a son. Skeptical, she replied, Nay, my lord, thou man of God, do not lie unto thine handmaid. Yet, the woman conceived, and bare a son, fulfilling God’s word.
She Had Spiritual Discernment
This unnamed Shunammite—called a great woman—could be any lady here. First, she had spiritual discernment. Meeting Elisha, she perceived, Behold now, I perceive that this is an holy man of God, which passeth by us continually. She distinguished a true servant of God from charlatans, guided by divine insight. Wanting Elisha’s presence permanent, she proposed a prophet’s chamber. Ladies, your families need more than worldly offerings—they need God. Like Jochebed, who gave us Moses, or Lois and Eunice, who shaped Timothy (II Timothy 1:5), your discernment can raise world-changers. The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.
She Had a Submissive Disposition
Second, she had a submissive disposition. Gently suggesting, Let us make a little chamber, I pray thee…let us set for him there a bed, she wasn’t loud or mean, but sweet and suggestive. Her husband grabbed his tools, moved by her honey, not vinegar. Ladies, a sweet spirit captures hearts. I’ve met sour folks—like a lady who snapped at me for holding a door—but this woman’s kindness built a space for God’s work. Chivalry thrives with such grace, inspiring action without force.
She Was Serious About the Things of God
Third, she was serious about God’s things. Beyond listening, she participated, building that chamber to join Elisha’s ministry. Spectators are common, but participators advance God’s kingdom. My own faith stems from ladies—my grandma, like Lois, and kind women at a Missionary Baptist Church—who sowed seeds for my 45 years in ministry. Ladies, your seriousness about God can shape souls, as this woman did, hosting the prophet to bless her home and beyond.
She Was Sensible in Her Lifestyle
Fourth, she was sensible. Offered a high position, she replied, I dwell among mine own people. She didn’t chase prestige, content where God placed her. Billy Graham once told a mother of many, “Your mission field is at home.” This woman’s choice to stay led to her miracle son. Living above one’s means—fancy homes with no furniture—misses God’s purpose. Ladies and gentlemen, be sensible; God has you where you are for a reason.
Her Salvation Was Evident
Lastly, her salvation shone through. Later, her son died from a sunstroke. Rushing to Elisha, she said, It is well, even about her dead boy. How? She knew eternity outlasts this life. Likely, she’d led him to pray, “Jesus, I want You as my Savior,” securing his soul. Moms, if you’re unsaved, come today—say, “God, I’m a sinner; save me.” Feel that magic moment: It is well with my soul. Getting kids to heaven beats any earthly goal. Only what’s done for Christ will last.