2 Kings 2:21 21 After that, he went to the spring of water, cast salt into it, and declared, “This is what the LORD says: ‘I have healed this water. Never again will it cause death or make the land unfruitful.'”
The spring of Jericho, located near the Dead Sea, most likely contained water similar to that of the Dead Sea – salty and rich in minerals. Access to water was essential for every town. In Israel, water is synonymous with life.
Elisha witnessed his master Elijah ascending into heaven in a chariot of fire and received a double portion of his spirit. He was able to hear the voice of the Lord. The first test of his anointing came when local prophets requested him to heal the spring of Jericho. Centuries earlier, Moses had healed water by throwing a log into a well (Exodus 15:25). What would Elisha do?
He requested a new bowl with salt. Who could have predicted that he would heal salty water with salt? Although the salt itself did not directly affect the spring and quickly dissipated, the symbolism represented God’s purification of the spring. Salt preserves and prevents decay. I have personally visited this spring in Jericho, and the water remains fresh and drinkable to this day.
I often wonder what Elisha must have thought when he received instructions from the Spirit. Sometimes, the Lord’s commands may seem peculiar to us. However, if we obey in faith, we will come to understand that He has His reasons. His ways are beyond our comprehension.
Reflect on this: God continually challenges our faith and guides us to obey His gentle voice. Are you prepared to follow His instructions, no matter how unconventional they may appear?
