At this moment Elisha and his servant are surrounded by the great Syrian army. In Israel’s war with Syria, Elisha’s prophetic insight had continually given away Syrian battle strategies. The army is here attempting to end Israel’s prophetic advantage.
Prayer is the vital turning point in this entire passage. First, it is through prayer that the strategies of the adversary are discerned. Second, prayer is the key to dispelling the panic of Elisha’s servant. After declaring that the Syrians are outnumbered by the two of them, Elisha prays. He does not pray that the Lord will show his servant yet another miracle. He asks that he be able to see into another dimension.
The answer came immediately. “And behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha” (v. 17). They had always been there. The Lord had anticipated their need and provided. However, it was only through eyes of faith in the spiritual realm that the resource could be seen. So today, don’t be afraid! Look up with eyes of faith. The Lord has outnumbered your enemies!
