Definition: And as thy servant was busy here and there, he was gone. And the king of Israel said unto him, So [shall] thy judgment [be]; thyself hast decided [it].

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Kings 20:40. It's a really significant passage about God’s plan and how He chooses to act in the world. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is clearly intervening in the story of Israel, and He’s deciding what to do. He’s saying, "I've already got things happening, but I'm going to decide how you should handle them." Let’s look at each part: “As thy servant was busy here and there…” – This means God is watching over Israel, noticing their problems, and being involved in their lives. He's not just passively observing; He's actively working. “…he was gone.” - This isn’t a literal disappearance. It means God is moving and influencing things without being physically present. He’s using His power to guide events. “And the king of Israel said unto him, So [shall] thy judgment [be]; thyself hast decided [it].” – This is the core of the verse. The King of Israel is asking God for a decision. The word "so" here is key. It means "let it be" or “that’s what you decide.” The King is essentially saying, “You have to make this decision; I'm trusting you to do so.” What does it mean in a bigger picture? This verse speaks to several important themes: God’s Sovereignty: God is in control of everything that happens. He doesn't interfere with things unless He wants to. Divine Judgment: This isn’t just about letting things happen; it’s about God using His judgment – His power and will – to correct wrong or bring about a necessary change. Trusting in God’s Plan: The King of Israel is asking for guidance, which suggests he needs to trust that God has a plan for Israel, even when things are difficult. In short, this verse describes God actively intervening in the story of Israel, setting the stage for a significant challenge and ultimately, a period of judgment and restoration. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the story from 1 Kings 20? Discuss what this verse might mean in a specific context (like the stories of the Flood or the reign of Ahab)?