Definition: But he said, [As] the LORD liveth, before whom I stand, I will receive none. And he urged him to take [it]; but he refused.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Kings 5:16. It's a really powerful and dramatic passage about a man facing a difficult situation. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: This verse comes from the Book of Judges, and it describes a king who is utterly terrified and unwilling to accept any help or guidance from God. He feels completely alone and vulnerable. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “But he said…” : This immediately establishes a significant shift in his mindset. He’s not just being cautious; he's actively rejecting God’s presence. “[As] the LORD liveth, before whom I stand…” : This is key. The word "as" here implies a comparison. It means “as” or “in the same way as.” So, he’s saying, “The Lord lives, and before him , I stand.” This is a huge statement of belief – he believes God is all-powerful and present in his life. “I will receive none…” : This is the core of the verse. He's declaring that he won’t accept any help, advice, or guidance from God. It’s like saying, “I don’t need your help; I’m completely on my own.” “…and he urged him to take [it]…” : This is a crucial part. He's strongly encouraging the king to take something . This "something" could be anything – a solution, a strategy, even just someone to talk to. It’s like he’s trying to get assistance from God, but he's stubbornly refusing it. “But he refused.” : This reinforces his refusal. He continues to resist the urge for help, showing unwavering determination. What does this mean on a deeper level? This verse speaks to several important themes: Fear and Dependence: It highlights how deep-seated fear can lead someone to reject divine guidance. The Importance of Faith: It emphasizes that true faith – believing in God – is essential for navigating difficult situations. Stubbornness & Lack of Humility: The king's refusal shows a lack of humility and a tendency to think he knows more than God does. In short, this verse portrays a king who is overwhelmed by fear and refuses to seek help from God, demonstrating a significant challenge in his faith. --- Do you want me to: Explain the context of this verse within the larger story? Explore why this passage might be significant for understanding biblical themes?