Saturday 20 September 2025
He replied, “Do not be afraid, for there are more with us than there are with them.” (v. 16)
Background
This portion of 2 Kings is set in a period of warfare and Israel is under attack from the Arameans. It is a narrative of faith and power. The Arameans have discerned that the prophet Elisha is a threat and send horses and chariots with a great army to seize him. Elisha appears overrun, defenceless and in grave danger, but the narrative goes on to draw forth Elisha’s faith and God’s power. Elisha assures Israel that more are with them than against them and that they may see this. This is indeed what happens. The power of prayer and the courage of faith create a moment in which God’s strength and sovereignty are known.
In this story of liberation, I am struck by a rather two-dimensional, cool, flat description of earthly royal power. It's set against a vision of God’s horses and chariots. What we encounter here is a faith-filled imagination which leads to a godly revelation that overcomes the powers of death and hell.
This story points us to consider that which hasn’t yet been shown to us. It invites us to encounter that which we have not known until this moment, and as a result to give us hope in that which is yet possible in faith which simply undoes all that is harmful. And I note that the threat of the invading army is not only diffused but that the invading force is taken to a new place, treated with kindness, fed well, and then set free. In our own personal relationships, an injection of graciousness can often defuse tension and make peace in situations of conflict.
To Ponder:
- Elisha assures the Israelites that God is with them and their faith enables them to see this. If you could, what might it be that you’d want to catch a glimpse of? And how might you go about preparing for that moment?
- The Israelites were assured there was enough help from God to protect them. What does the idea of ‘enough’ look or feel like for you?
Prayer
Almighty God, I pray for compassion for those who are under siege this day, whose lives are in peril. Teach me how to respond to situations with love and to seek the road to peace more often than the road to conflict. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd Dr Mark Cheetham
Mark is Superintendent Minister of the Salisbury Circuit and Minister at Salisbury Methodist Church.