Trusting in the Unseen - 2 Kings 6:8-23
Do You See What I See? 2 Kings 6:8-23
Have you ever been in a situation where you could see something and no one else could? EG. mess in the kitchen, modern art, people…. “Can’t you see that?”
Today, we look at spiritual blindness and tuning in or listening to God.
Context:- Book of Kings was originally one book. It tracks the history of the kings of Israel and Judah and the nations’ downfall. The main players are kings, prophets, enemies, North (Israel), Judah (Southern). Elisha was the prophet during this period. His job was to listen to God.
1. “Who’s squealing?” (verses 8-14) God confounded the Syrian king – God’s listening even in the bedroom. Remember God is everywhere, all powerful and all knowing. (verse 12) It’s Elisha – the Syrian king believed it and sent the army.
Are we listening to God? Then, when we hear God, do we act??? Read God’s Word, pray, listen to good music, etc… It’s not only Old Testament prophets who have to hear/listen for God’s voice.
2. “That’s not good.” (verses 15-17) Elisha’s servant see a big problem – an overwhelming issue – hits the panic button.
*What is your ‘Syrian army’? What has/is confronting you right now (or in the past)? Is it:- Covid 19, medical condition, mental health, relationship, a spirited bottle – Even the Apostle Paul faced problems. 2000 Australians last year could not see a way out. What is the way out?! What did the servant do?
3. “Open my eyes.” (verses 16-17) He turned to the man of God. – “Fear not” – the servant may have thought ‘Is the prophet for real? There is only two of us.’ Two men - same situation – one feared and one had peace/comfort. The difference – spiritual blindness to God’s great salvation/deliverance.
Elisha’s prayer “Open his eyes” (Can’t be his physical eyes – he could see the army) This is spiritual – This is spiritual blindness. Satan is the author of our blindness (2 Corinthians 3-4) GOD has the cure (2 Corinthians 4:6) – It’s Jesus. The servant’s eyes were opened to God’s wonderful salvation (flaming horses/chariots) It probably blew his mind.
Question: Are you still spiritually blinded? You are hearing the Gospel here today. This is a choice – remain blind or step into the light – accept the free gift of salvation that Jesus offers.
4. “Walk this way” (verses 19-23) The army still moved on to Dothan. – Elisha’s prayer – Open their eyes – The king gets excited – Grace/mercy/love was shown to the men – just because we have the right to do it……..
CONCLUSION
Christian – what ‘Syrian army’ are you facing?? – Two men, two different views, same issue. God’s got you:- Deuteronomy 31:8; Joshua 14:16-18; Philippians 4:6; John 14:27. He has your back – He will never leave you nor forsake you – Seek God in troubles. *Get wise counsel. May our eyes be open to God’s ways. Two ways only – God will remove the trouble or give us the strength/wisdom to get through.
Maybe your eyes have never been opened – you are still blinded by the god of this world. Today can be the day of your salvation. Today could be your Freedom Day, the day the “patch” comes off and you see clearly. Accept Jesus Christ and be cured.