Definition: And he settled his countenance stedfastly, until he was ashamed: and the man of God wept.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this incredibly important verse from the Book of Kings: “2 Kings 8:11 And he settled his countenance stedfastly, until he was ashamed: and the man of God wept.” Here’s a simple explanation in plain language: Basically, it means God is showing compassion and sympathy towards someone who is suffering. Let's unpack it bit by bit: “He settled his countenance stedfastly…” - This is a key phrase. "Countenance" refers to God’s face or expression. “Stedfastly” means firmly, steadfastly, and with unwavering resolve. It suggests that God isn't just looking at the situation; He’s actively accepting it. “…until he was ashamed…” - This is a huge point! It signifies that God recognizes the pain or difficulty someone else is experiencing and feels sorry for them. He acknowledges their suffering. “And the man of God wept.” – This is the most impactful part. "The man of God" refers to Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Weeping is a natural response to sorrow, pain, or sadness. So, this verse says that God, in His compassion, feels sorry for the person who is crying and expresses that sorrow. What’s the bigger picture? This story is often interpreted as a reminder of God's love and mercy. It shows that: God cares deeply: He doesn’t just look at problems; he actively feels empathy for those who are struggling. God’s compassion knows no bounds: His sorrow for others is a powerful expression of his love. It’s about more than just sympathy: It’s also about recognizing the need for someone to be comforted and helped. In short, this verse tells us that God isn't just watching from afar; He actively feels sorry for those who are suffering and is offering comfort. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the significance of this story in more detail? Connect it to a specific theme or idea (like forgiveness, hope, etc.)?