“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 NIV)
The prophet Elisha saw and heard things that were hidden from others. God repeatedly revealed to him where the king of Syria planned to attack Israel. Thanks to these warnings, the Israelites were able to prepare in time and defeat their enemy. Frustrated that his plans kept failing, the Syrian king sent soldiers with horses and chariots to capture Elisha, surrounding the city where he was staying.
When Elisha’s servant saw the enemy, he was terrified. It was an understandable reaction—what could two men do against an entire army? But Elisha said, “Don’t be afraid […] Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” (2 Kings 6:16 NIV) Elisha saw what his servant could not: God had sent a heavenly army to protect them. Only after God opened the servant’s eyes did he see the horses and chariots of fire surrounding them. What an amazing reassurance!
This story reminds us that there is far more happening than we can see. Perhaps you are facing a difficult or threatening situation and feel afraid. Yet God cares for His children, even when His protection is invisible. “For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.” (Psalm 91:11 NIV)
Does that give you peace?