Tag: more for us
Opening Eyes
Scripture reading for July 31: 2 Kings 6:15-17 “When the servant of the man of God rose early in the morning and went out, behold an army with horses and chariots was all around the city. And the servant said, “Alas, my master! What shall we do?” He said, “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” Then Elisha prayed and said, “O Lord, please open his eyes that he may see.” So the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.”
Today’s story involves the prophet Elisha and his helper Gehazi. They were visiting a city in Israel, Dothan, that was surrounded by the Syrian army bent on taking Elisha. Early in the morning, Gehazi went to the city wall and saw the army with their horses and chariots and was filled with fear and alarm as he went back to tell his master about what was happening. His mind was racing trying to figure out how they would escape or survive.
Elisha’s response was one of calm confidence. He stated by faith that there were more of God’s army for them than the enemy that was visible. He simply prayed to the Lord to open Gehazi’s eyes to spiritual reality. As Gehazi’s eyes were given the ability to see in the spiritual realm, he was amazed at the number and power of the angelic army protecting and fighting for them. There was truly many more for them than against them!
How often do we face situations where we feel like we are outnumbered and powerless against an overwhelming enemy, sickness, or disease? It is the enemy’s design to get us into fear and unbelief. We are reminded by this amazing story of spiritual truth. Why not ask, as a man or woman of God, for spiritual insight through the indwelling Holy Spirit? Why not pray in the Holy Spirit, and build yourself up in your holy faith? Jude 20 states, “But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith, and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.”
Prayer: Father God, open my eyes to see Your amazing army of helpers and defenders. Let faith arise for healing and deliverance! Amen!
Day 3–More for Us than Against Us!
Scripture reading for March 4: 2 Kings 6:15-17 “When the servant of the man of God rose early in the morning and went out, behold, an army with horses and chariots was all around the city. And the servant said, “Alas, my master! What shall we do?” He said, “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” Then Elisha prayed and said, “O Lord, please open his eyes that he may see.” So the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.”
Sometimes our life seems like we are being overwhelmed by more than we can handle. We go to the doctor for a physical and come home with a list of issues showing us we are in trouble. We set up a budget, but then the sewer backs up and we are faced with a large financial disruption. As a first responder, we respond to a call for help in an accident and suddenly find multiple injuries and fatalities and entrapment with fire potential. Sometimes we respond just like the servant of Elisha, with despair and wondering what to do next.
This short story from Scripture tells us of a time when the prophet Elisha was staying in a walled city and the army was out fighting in another location. In the night, the enemy army surrounded the city with overwhelming forces. When the servant saw what had happened, he returned in despair, asking Elisha what they could do. Elisha simply turned to the Lord in prayer and with the vision of faith he had developed from walking with God. He asked that eyes would be opened to the invisible realm of the Spirit. God graciously granted the request and clearly revealed heaven’s army, armed with glory!
Prayer: Father God, thank You for this simple story from long ago showing Your power and ability to protect Your people. Remind me each day of this profound truth: “There is more for us than against us!” Give me grace to pray for open eyes when I feel overwhelmed or overrun. Thank You! Amen.