2 Kings 8

And Elisha said to him, “Go, say to him, ‘You shall certainly recover.’ However the Lord has shown me that he will really die.” Then he set his countenance in a stare until he was ashamed; and the man of God wept. And Hazael said, “Why is my lord weeping?” He answered, “Because I know the evil that you will do to the children of Israel:—2 Kings 8:10-12a

There are times when I wish I could know what is to come or see how things in the future might turn out.  The older I get, however, the less this is the case.  I am more and more content to rest in the day...to enjoy the moment so to speak.  Truly, it is a gift from God that we are not in control....that we can’t see into another’s heart, or see into the future.  But, oh, how difficult it must have been for Elisha to see the evil that Hazael would do...his murder of Ben-hadad...the atrocities he would commit when he became king in his stead and be powerless to stop it.

Hazael speaking in response to Elisha’s revelation.

But what is your servant; a dog, that should do this gross thing?—2 Kings 8:13

I am of the opinion that Hazael had already planned this assassination and was feigning humility here, but perhaps he hadn’t planned it and was unaware of the evil that dwelt in his own heart. The application for me is the same for both scenarios.  Don’t take offense.  When God speaks, receive His word as it says in James with meekness which means without argument.  Hazael should have humbly taken this as a warning to either examine his heart and take heed to do right lest he fall or to turn and repent of his evil plan.

Father...Cause me to know the way in which I should walk, for I lift up my soul to You. Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God; Your Spirit is good.  Lead me in the land of uprightness.