2 Kings 3:18

This is a simple matter in the sight of the LORD, and He will also deliver the Moabites into your hand.

Study Bible

This is an easy thing
The phrase "This is an easy thing" underscores the omnipotence of God. In Hebrew, the word for "easy" is "קָל" (qal), which conveys the idea of something light or insignificant. This highlights the effortless nature of God's power and ability to intervene in human affairs. The context here is a miraculous provision of water for the armies of Israel, Judah, and Edom, which seemed impossible from a human perspective. Yet, for God, it is a simple task, reminding believers of His sovereignty and the ease with which He can accomplish His will.

in the eyes of the LORD
The phrase "in the eyes of the LORD" reflects the divine perspective, which is vastly different from human understanding. The Hebrew word for "eyes" is "עֵינַיִם" (einaim), often used metaphorically to denote perception or judgment. This suggests that what may seem daunting or impossible to humans is straightforward for God. It encourages believers to trust in God's vision and understanding, which surpasses human limitations and to rely on His wisdom and power.

He will also deliver Moab
"Deliver" in Hebrew is "נָתַן" (natan), meaning to give or hand over. This indicates God's active role in the outcome of the battle against Moab. The historical context involves the coalition of Israel, Judah, and Edom against Moab, a nation that had rebelled against Israelite control. God's promise to deliver Moab into their hands is a testament to His faithfulness in fulfilling His promises and His ability to control the destinies of nations. It reassures believers of God's involvement in the affairs of the world and His commitment to His people.

into your hands
The phrase "into your hands" signifies the transfer of power and victory. In Hebrew, "hands" is "יָדַיִם" (yadayim), often symbolizing strength, power, and possession. This expression indicates that God is granting the coalition victory over Moab, placing the outcome firmly within their grasp. It serves as a reminder of God's provision and the empowerment He gives to His people to achieve His purposes. For believers, it is an encouragement to trust in God's promises and to act in faith, knowing that He equips and enables them to succeed in the tasks He sets before them.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoram (Joram)
- The king of Israel, son of Ahab, who sought help from Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, to fight against Moab.

2. Jehoshaphat
- The king of Judah, known for his faithfulness to God, who allied with Jehoram to battle Moab.

3. Moab
- A nation east of Israel, which rebelled against Israel after the death of Ahab.

4. Elisha
- The prophet of God who provided guidance and assurance of victory to the kings of Israel and Judah.

5. The Valley of Edom
- The location where the armies of Israel, Judah, and Edom gathered and where God performed the miracle of providing water.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Power
The verse highlights God's supreme power and ability to accomplish His will effortlessly. Believers should trust in God's sovereignty, knowing that nothing is too difficult for Him.

Faith in God's Promises
Just as God promised victory over Moab, He promises to be with us in our battles. We should have faith in His promises and rely on His strength.

God's Provision
The miracle of water in the desert shows God's provision in times of need. We should trust God to provide for our needs, even in seemingly impossible situations.

Partnership with God
The alliance between Israel and Judah, under God's guidance, shows the importance of seeking God's direction in our endeavors. We should partner with God in our plans and decisions.

God's Perspective
What seems insurmountable to us is "an easy thing" for God. We should adopt God's perspective, seeing challenges as opportunities for His power to be displayed.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's sovereignty in 2 Kings 3:18 impact your approach to challenges in your life?

2. In what ways can you apply the lesson of God's provision in the desert to your current circumstances?

3. How can you ensure that your plans and decisions are aligned with God's will, as seen in the alliance between Israel and Judah?

4. Reflect on a time when God turned a seemingly impossible situation into a victory. How does this encourage you in your faith journey?

5. How can you cultivate a perspective that sees challenges as opportunities for God's power to be displayed, as demonstrated in this passage?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 14:13-14
Just as God assured victory over the Egyptians, He assures victory over Moab, emphasizing His power and faithfulness.

Isaiah 55:8-9
God's ways and thoughts are higher than ours, highlighting that what seems difficult to us is easy for God.

Philippians 4:13
The assurance that through Christ, believers can accomplish what seems impossible, reflecting the ease with which God can deliver His promises.