2 Kings 4:8-10 (NIV) "One day Elisha went to Shunem. And a well-to-do woman was there, who urged him to stay for a meal. So whenever he came by, he stopped there to eat. She said to her husband, 'I know that this man who often comes our way is a holy man of God. Let’s make a small room on the roof and put in it a bed and a table, a chair and a lamp for him. Then he can stay there whenever he comes to us.'"

Devotion:

In this passage from 2 Kings, we meet a remarkable woman who is referred to as "great." What makes her worthy of this designation is not her social position or status, but her exemplary leadership skills and her ability to become a blessing to others. Her story teaches us that true leadership is not about having power, but about using wisdom to serve and bless those around us.

The woman of Shunem saw the opportunity to extend hospitality to Elisha, a holy man of God who frequently passed through her town. Without hesitation, she urged him to stay for a meal. She recognized his divine calling and sought to honor him by providing a place of rest and refreshment in her home. This act of leadership from a seemingly insignificant position laid the foundation for a beautiful relationship with Elisha.

What impresses me most about this woman's leadership is not her ability to hold a title or position, but rather her genuine care and insight. She saw a need and took initiative to meet it, making a small room on the roof for Elisha to stay. Her wisdom in this decision not only demonstrated her leadership skills but also brought blessing to her entire family. 

It's important to note that her husband held the traditional position of authority in their household, yet it is the woman who is identified as the leader in this story. This reminds us that true leadership isn't necessarily about holding a position of power, but about using our God-given wisdom to guide and bless others.

We can learn valuable lessons from this great woman. Firstly, leadership is not limited to a specific position or role. We can exhibit leadership from any position if we have the wisdom and courage to act. Secondly, leadership is not about asserting power, but about serving and blessing those around us. It requires empathy, foresight, and a willingness to take action when necessary.

Let us be inspired by the example of the woman from Shunem. May we seek opportunities to lead and bless others, regardless of our position or status. Let us remember that true greatness lies not in power or authority but in the selfless use of wisdom to impact lives for the glory of God.