What a Little Salt Can Do

O. T. #823           "What a Little Salt Can Do"
August 31, 2016
2 Kings 2-Part 7

LET IT GLOW


If salt is omitted as an ingredient while cooking, one will certainly recognize it its absence in the finished product. Isn't it amazing what a little salt can do? In today's lesson, we read of another effect of salt.

The new prophet Elisha was approached by leaders of the town of Jericho. They shared their problem with Elisha: this town is located in pleasant surroundings, as you can see. but the water is bad, and the land is unproductive.

Why was Jericho in trouble?
In Joshua 6 we find the answer. Jericho was the first city the Israelites conquered after crossing the Jordan River. Joshua instructed the army to destroy everything except  Rahab and her household (she aided the two spies to safety), and the silver, gold, bronze or iron, which were sacred to the LORD and was to be put into His treasury. Joshua cursed the man who rebuilt Jericho in verse 26.
It was during the reign of Hiel as king that a man from Bethel rebuilt Jericho, at the expense of loosing his 2 sons.

The water of Israel's religion had become corrupt and disease bringing. If Elisha were listened to, he could heal it.  (Ellison)

Israel's sin-sickness was idolatry and disobedience to God's commands. Salt purifies water, however using only a bowlful would not purify the whole supply of water. It was symbolic of God's cleansing Jericho, freeing it from Joshua's curse.

Are we sometimes reluctant in following God's instructions? We are blessed if we are obedient.


LET IT GROW

Elisha called for a new bowl with salt in it and they brought it. Elisha took the bowl of salt out to the spring which supplied the town with water, and he threw the salt into it.
Elisha said, This is what the LORD says: I have purified this water. It will no longer cause death or infertility. "

Elisha confirmed his role as a channel for God's works by performing a miracle-one that demonstrated the practical benefits of God's great acts. (Holman Illustrated Bible Commentary)

The water has remained pure ever since, just as Elisha said. God's unique power is seen through His prophet Elisha.
Do we believe God for miracles today? He is the same God.

LET IT GO

Be obedient.

Believe God can perform miracles today as He did in O. T. times.

If He chooses not to, trust Him anyway.