January 14th – “Dig Deeper“
And Elisha prayed, “Open his eyes, LORD, so that he may see.” 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. 2 Kings 6:17
The phrase, “there’s more to this than meets the eye” cautions against our tendency to accept reality as it is superficially presented. Due to the advent of social media, we are constantly inundated with images attached to greater meaning but which are subject to individual interpretation. Consequently, our analysis and understanding of the information easily lacks a dimension of depth because it is not within our natural instinct to probe further. However, the real danger represented is that without the ability to see clearly, we can not discover the truth of the matter at hand.
Elisha’s servant had a similar experience when he and his master were besieged by the Aramean army. Because Elisha had forewarned the king of Israel whenever the king of Aram planned to attack, the king of Israel was able to successfully evade his traps (2 Kings 6:12). Frustrated by his failed efforts, the king of Aram decides to ambush Elisha while he is stationed in the city of Dothan (v.13-15). At first glance, the surrounding horses and chariots causes the servant to panic, while Elisha remains calm. The difference in their response is that Elisha sees what the servant does not.
In other words, there was more to the story.
Because Elisha could see clearly, Elisha was able to reassure his servant and affirm that they were not outnumbered (v.17). It was only after His servant’s eyes were opened that he shared this discovery and could synchronize in response. If you’re going to discover God, you’re going to need tosee beyond the surface. Seeing allows you to participate and prevents you from missing out on what God is doing. When you can see, you do not get worked up over everything, because you know the facts and cannot be deceived. When you can see, you are able to reinforce the truth of the matter because your conviction is not based on a feeling, it’s based on a knowing.
Likewise, having your eyes opened is an act that can only be done by God. You may be looking at a situation, and reading it all wrong because of your inability to see what God is showing you. The cup always lookshalf empty– but God wants you to see it as half-full. You’re frustrated with your workplace, and you think it’s time to leave, but God wants you to see the opportunity to minister. It looks like it’s just one problem after the next, but God wants you to see that you are the solution. Essentially, the inability to see clearly is what led to the downfall of the enemy. Once the army was struck with blindness (v.18), it could no longer attack. For this reason, we must pray for the ability to see clearly, acknowledging that we cannot function in purpose when we inappropriately expend our emotions and energy. Discovering God cannot happen when you settle for being shallow. You NEED to dig deeper.
Reflect: What are some situations in your life where you need to see more clearly?
How will your response change with your newfound sight?
Prayer: Father God, I thank You because You are El-Roi the “God who sees.” Your eyes range throughout the earth and I know that Your eyes are on the righteous and Your ear attentive to their cry. I ask that You open the eyes of my understanding so that I may see what You are showing me in every situation. I trust You to do this Father. In Jesus name, amen.
Written by Deborah Nimoh
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