“Surely the Lord is in this place, and I did not know it.” Gen 28:16
We were sitting in the backyard recently and my husband noticed a firefly. Soon we started to see them all around us. It was only after we became aware and paid attention that we saw them. It made we wonder what else I was missing?
I was reminded of a story in the Old Testament. In 2 Kings* we read about the King of Syria warring with Israel. The king has a problem. The Israelites were finding out about his plans before the Syrians had a chance to act on them.
Finally the King of Syria had enough and challenged his men: “What is going on? We must have a spy among us! I want to know who it is.”
His men had been wondering the same thing and after some successful counter intelligence work they discovered what was going on. They told the king, “There is no spy. It’s a prophet by the name of Elisha. He is the one who tells the King of Israel your plans.”
Upon hearing this news, at nightfall, the king mobilized his horses, chariots and army to surround Elisha.
Early the next morning, Elisha’s servant arose and saw that they were surrounded by the Syrian army. Terrified, he swiftly informed Elisha, who remained calm saying, “Do not be afraid; for there are many more with us than there are with them.”
Then Elisha prayed and asked God to open the eyes of his servant. The servant looked again and saw the mountain around them full of horses and chariots of fire prepared to fight for Elisha and his people.
We often don’t realize the power and provision already with us. The horses and the chariots were there all along but the servant did not see them. God is always there, even when we don’t see him. God is doing more than we can see or are able to fully comprehend. God is with us.
Reflect:
How is God present with me?
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* See 2 Kings 6:8-17