We’ve noted before how God is working even when we can’t see him. Today’s reading has lots of references to sight and being able to see the truth. We may struggle with seeing God at work today. That doesn’t mean God stopped working but perhaps that we have a problem with our “spiritual eyesight.”
Just like Elisha’s servant let fear engulf him when he saw the enemy surrounding Elisha, we can feel paralyzed at times. The young servant’s faith was a little wobbly it appears, but Elisha soon reminded him to look closer. “For there are more on our side than on theirs!” Elisha asked God to help the young man see and immediately the man could see God’s heavenly army coming to the rescue. We’ve probably had an army like that fighting our battles too—we just couldn’t see.
When we’re feeling afraid of a situation that seems ominous, we should take Elisha’s words here and pray for spiritual eyes to see God’s plans. When hidden truths are revealed to us, our fear will dissipate. Praying for our eyes to be opened would seem to be a good way to start.
We’ve already been told how Elisha was able to know in advance what the Aramean king was up to. God gave Elisha quite the gift as a means of keeping his people safe. Seeing how this particular story plays out is almost comical when you imagine it actually happening. Imagine the chaos when the army marching to seize Elisha all of a sudden couldn’t see.
While there was a bit of “duping” going on, that is playful trickery, Elisha was making a statement that spoke loudly to the Arameans. You could even say Elisha saved their lives because the King of Israel seemed very interested in killing them. Out of respect, he calls Elisha, “my father” and listens to Elisha’s words of wise counsel.
Let’s focus on our spiritual vision. Are you seeing a clear path for your life right now or are you feeling a bit lost? It wasn’t too long ago when I was feeling lost and unsure of what God wanted for me. After lots of prayer, I do have the assurance of being on the right path. Yet, I want to make sure I never get off track again!
Fear will creep in. The evil one loves to use that tactic. Just remember the heavenly army that is surrounding you or ready to attack on your behalf. Enjoy the assurance you’ll feel as that fear simply vanishes at the thought of it.
Enjoy one of my favorite songs, “Whom Shall I Fear” from Chris Tomlin. (I saw this performed LIVE!) Don’t you agree it fits beautifully with this text?
Let’s pray …
Lord, open my eyes so that I can see you more clearly. I want to be living in your will for me. Thank you for the reminder that your army surrounds me. I know who goes before me, and I know who stands behind. Thank you for the promise that You will deliver me, and the victory is yours! In Jesus’ name. Amen.
