What do you do when the water runs out?
In 2 Kings 3, three kings are marching to war. The strategy seems sound, the armies are united, and the purpose is clear. But then, something unexpected happens: the water runs out. Not just for the soldiers, but for the animals and supplies. Everything stalls in the wilderness of Edom. It’s not just a military crisis; it’s a spiritual one. And for many of us, that’s exactly where we find ourselves, fighting one battle and suddenly overwhelmed by another, wondering how we got there and what to do next.
This story isn’t just about ancient kings or political alliances. It’s about what we do in the desert seasons of our own lives—when we run out of strength, hope, peace, direction, and yes, water. The answer comes through three movements in the passage: the Word of God, the Work of Faith, and the Worship of Wait.
1. The Word of God
“Isn’t there a prophet of the LORD here? Let’s inquire of the LORD through him.” — 2 Kings 3:11
The kings of Israel, Judah, and Edom found themselves in a desperate place with no water and no plan. The King of Israel, Joram, who had walked away from God and embraced idolatry, blamed the Lord for their problems. But Jehoshaphat, a godly king, had a different perspective. He said, in effect, “We need a word from God.” And so, they turned to Elisha, the prophet. Many people live like King Joram, ignoring God until life hits a wall, and then blaming Him for the fallout. But when you’re spiritually dry, the only thing that will quench your thirst is the living water of God’s Word. Jehoshaphat’s response should be ours: go to the one who hears from God.
2. The Work of Faith
“This is what the Lord says: ‘Dig ditch after ditch in this wadi.’” — 2 Kings 3:16
What happens next is unexpected. Elisha says, “Make this valley full of ditches.” Why? Because God is about to send water—but they must prepare for it. There would be no rain, no storm, no thunderclouds. Just water… coming supernaturally. But only where there was a ditch to catch it. Sometimes God says, “I want to bless you, but you have to get ready.” You’ve got to dig before the water flows. That’s real faith. That’s faith with callouses and blisters. It’s obedience when you can’t see the results yet. You dig when you’re tired. You dig when it doesn’t make sense. And you trust that God will do His part when you’ve done yours.
Miracles follow preparation. The ditch represents your faith in action; your commitment to pray, obey, serve, give, and believe, even when it looks barren around you.
3. The Worship of Wait
“While the musician played, the Lord’s hand came on Elisha.” — 2 Kings 3:15
Before Elisha even spoke the word about digging, he asked for a musician to come play. Why? Because worship sets the atmosphere for the Word. Elisha had just lost Elijah, he was probably grieving, emotionally exhausted, and spiritually dry himself. But the music helped him reconnect to God’s presence. Worship has the power to calm your spirit, reorient your heart, and open you to hear from God. Before the breakthrough came, before the water flowed, there was worship.
And in your waiting, you need worship too. In the dry places, don’t just wait, worship. Before the rain, praise Him. Before the answer, sing. Worship is not a reaction to victory; it’s the posture of trust before the victory ever comes.
The Surprise Ending
“The water suddenly came… and filled the land.” — 2 Kings 3:20
Without a drop of rain or a single cloud in the sky, God sent water. It came “from Edom,” from a completely unexpected direction. And when the sun rose, the Moabite army mistook the water for blood, rushed in unprepared, and were defeated. God didn’t just provide—He delivered victory through what the enemy misunderstood.
Sometimes the answer you need will come from where you least expect it. The provision you prayed for may not look like you imagined. But God’s ways are higher, and His timing is perfect. He doesn’t just want to give you water—He wants to give you a win.
Final Challenge
If you’re in a spiritual drought—if the water has run out—hear the Word, do the work, and offer worship while you wait.
God may be using this dry place to draw you closer to Him. Your obedience might be the very thing He’s waiting on before He pours out His provision.
Are you willing to pick up a shovel and start digging?
Are you willing to praise before you see the promise?
Are you ready to stop blaming and start believing?
God is still sending water. Get ready.
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