EXPOSITION:
An army by the night had arrived at Israel and besieged the city with chariots and horses. Such sight met Elisha’s servant when he woke up that early morning. Like most of us would be, the servant was panic-stricken and confused as to what to do.
What is striking about this story, is Elisha’s calmness and his trust in God even in such a circumstance. When asked what should be done, he assures his servant, “Don’t be afraid. Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” This is a kind of faith in God’s protection which every believer should be conscious of.
A lot of Christians often live in perpetual fear of the devil and so focus all their time on demons in their prayers rather than on spiritual empowerment. But are these fears warranted?
God’s special gift of salvation comes with that extra pack of assurance of His all-time protection. Just as He was with the Israelites in the wilderness, so is He always with us even when we cannot see Him.
The story gets more interesting when Elisha prays for his servant’s eyes to be opened. “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.”
David said, “even though I walk through the valleys of the shadows of death, I will fear no evil for you are with me.” He was conscious of God’s protection that is always with us. Anytime you are tempted to fear, just keep in mind, “those who are with you are more than those who are with them.”