I would have spit the coffee out of my mouth.
In the days of God’s prophet, Elisha, the nation of Aram was at war with the nation of Israel. Under the cover of darkness, the Aramean army surrounded the city where Elisha and his assistant were staying.
Early the next morning, Elisha’s servant glanced at the morning horizon and was instantly terrified. I doubt he was drinking his morning coffee but if he was, he would have spit it out. “Oh no, my lord! What shall we do?” the servant asked. (2 Kings 6:15)
Elisha had some encouraging words for his terrified friend. “Don’t be afraid,” the prophet answered. “Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” (2 Kings 6:16)
If you’re like me you need to hear those words too.
I doubt you’ve seen an army on the horizon wanting to kill you, but I bet you’ve seen plenty on the horizon that’s overwhelmed you. Projects that are daunting and deadlines that our haunting. Relationships to fix and habits to break. Illnesses that intimidate and politics that frustrate. Guilt of the past and worries of the future. The devil and his army of evil angels have you surrounded and will use whatever they can to sabotage your trust in the God who loves you and has promised to protect you.
When you are fearing in life and wondering what you are going to do, remember Elisha’s words. The Lord is in command of a vast angel army that far outnumbers the enemy. They stand ready to protect you. You may not see them, but a promise from your gracious Father says they’re there. Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.
Here's what happened next. And Elisha prayed, “Open his eyes, Lord, so that he may see.” Then the Lord opened the servant’s eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. (2 Kings 6:17)
If he hasn’t given you the eyes to see them, he’ll give you the heart to believe they are there. Don’t be afraid.
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