In chapters 1 and 2 we see two incidences of God’s curse being invoked by Elijah and Elisha.
Probably for most readers, they’re hard to understand. It all seems very harsh.
Something that’s important to remember, however, is that when the Bible talks about God’s curse, it’s not talking about some magic formula to bring down disaster upon our enemies.
It’s God’s judgment on a rebellious people.
We see that in the first case with Elijah.
There was a definite arrogance and rebelliousness against God and his prophet shown by Israel’s king and the first two captains he sent.
The second case with Elisha shows a similar arrogance and rebelliousness against God and his prophet.
What makes it more difficult to swallow, though, is that most translations call the offenders “small boys” or “young boys.”
But the Hebrew word for “boys” is very broad and is often used to describe people who were young men.
Solomon uses that exact term for himself in 1 Kings 3:7 which different English Bibles translate “youth,” “small child,” or “young man.”
However you translate Solomon’s words, I think it’s clear he was putting himself down, admitting his inexperience and ignorance as a young man.
In the same way, I think the writer of Kings was criticizing the ignorance of these young men.
But the difference between Solomon and these young men was that Solomon was humble before God. The result was he found grace.
These young men accosting Elisha were arrogant and hostile against Elisha and the God he served.
As a result, they were judged.
James put it this way.
God resists the proud
but gives grace to the humble.Therefore, submit to God…
Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.
Cleanse your hands, sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
Be miserable and mourn and weep.
Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom.
Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you. (Jamess 4:6–10)
Moment to Moment (Bible blog) 