1 Kings 13:6
And the king answered and said unto the man of God, Intreat now the face of the LORD thy God, and pray for me, that my hand may be restored me again. And the man of God besought the LORD, and the king’s hand was restored him again, and became as it was before.
1 KINGS 13:6
In this scene from the divided monarchy era, a man of God from Judah confronts King Jeroboam at Bethel. Jeroboam had set up golden calves and established worship centers to deter pilgrimage to Jerusalem, effectively seeding disobedience to the covenantal pattern. The king’s request to restore his hand reveals a moment of royal vulnerability: power is visible, yet fragile. The miracle—God’s power to restore the king’s withered hand—demonstrates that divine authority ultimately governs human rulers, even when they fear or resist Him. The man of God’s intercession shows a model of prayer and dependence: he does not rely on royal favor but on the Lord. The narrative emphasizes that God’s sovereignty extends over political ambition and personal pride.
This verse centers divine mercy and authority: God listens to intercession and demonstrates mercy to a political actor. It underscores accountability: even a king is answerable to God and can experience restoration when aligned with divine will. The miracle confirms the prophet’s message and authority, validating God’s communication to Israel through His messenger. It also flags the tension between genuine dependence on God and human reliance on power or negotiation. The restored hand signals not merely physical healing but a sign that God preserves life in service to His purposes, not to human vanity.
Pray for those in leadership who are tempted to trust in might rather than in God. Intercession matters, even for people we disagree with or fear. The king’s repentance—however brief—shows that God’s mercy can intersect political power. Practically, consider moments when workplace power plays or public influence grow cold or rigid; bring them to prayer and seek God’s guidance for restoration and humility. Remember that God often uses ordinary believers to deliver His truth, and leadership is tempered by divine wisdom, mercy, and accountability.
Cross-References
- 2 Chronicles 7:14
- James 5:16
- Isaiah 38:3
- Exodus 15:12
- Psalm 103:8