Looks Can Be Deceiving

Related Scripture:

Elisha said, “Don’t be afraid, for those who are with us outnumber those who are with them.” Then Elisha prayed, “Lord, please open his eyes and let him see.” So, the Lord opened the servant’s eyes, and he saw that the mountain was covered with horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.- II Kings 6:16-17

There’s the old saying that ‘looks can be deceiving.’  There are times when it looks like we are outnumbered, overmatched, overpowered, and even alone. Many times, we internalize what we see into how we feel. These feelings include fear, worry, anxiety, stress, and helplessness. Thankfully, looks can be deceiving.

The servant of Elisha “saw” horses, chariots, and a massive army. This was not an illusion or an exaggeration. It was reality. His physical eyes saw this, but the man of God saw beyond what his physical eyes were presenting. After Elisha’s prayer and the Lord’s touch, the servant “saw” again. This time, he saw horses and chariots of fire (not present the first time), but on Elisha’s side.

The challenges you see are real. The obstacles exist. The hardships are not an exaggeration. In your officiating journey, there is real competition, sometimes unfair hurdles, and unwarranted opposition. The most important enemies are those that resist your faith and identity in Christ. Even when it seems carnality and ungodliness ‘outnumber’ us, heed the words of Elisha: “Don’t be afraid, for those who are with us outnumber those who are with them.” Jesus is with you. Many brothers & sisters in Christ are with you too (more than you can imagine).

Questions to Ponder:

What are you seeing that’s making you afraid or worried?

What can you do to help you see what the Lord wants you to see?

Kristopher D. Loving, Sr. - Fellowship of Christian Athletes - Zionsville, IN