May 11, 2024

Elisha had warned the king of Israel more than once about the plans of the king of Syria, enabling him to save himself. The Syrian king didn’t understand how Israel’s king always knew his plans, and one of his advisers mentioned that Elisha counseled the king. So he sent spies to find out where Elisha was and then sent his army to surround him at night. Elisha’s helper was up early, saw the encampment, and ran to Elisha, gripped with fear. However, Elisha could see God’s angel army surrounding them, but to calm the concerns of the helper, he prayed that God would open his eyes to see the horses and chariots of fire stationed in the mountains. 

On the other hand, he prayed that the eyes of the enemy soldiers would be blinded, confusing them. Elisha could then lead them to Samaria, right into the hands of the king of Israel. The king wanted to slaughter them, but Elisha reminded him that they were more like prisoners of war and that he should feed them and send them back to Syria. 

This story is one of my favorites because it is encouraging when facing trouble. God so dearly loves us that he will surround our enemy to keep us safe. There are forces of good and evil all around us, even though we cannot see them. Remember, only one-third of the angels were cast out of heaven with the devil to earth, leaving two-thirds to protect us. When someone is weak and fearing their trouble, remind them of the troops of angels protecting us from the enemy. Also, ensure you heed any warnings of impending danger when God makes you aware; otherwise, the consequences are on you. 

And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha. 2 Kings 6:17