4th March 2026

An oft-cited and favourite verse in the Old Testament is found in the seldom-read book of Second Kings. Whether or not you’ve read the book of Kings, or if it’s been a long time, you are probably familiar with the 16^th verse of chapter 6: “Do not be afraid, for there are more with us than there are with them.” Elisha spoke these words to his servant, who upon awakening one morning to find the Arameans surrounding them and ready to destroy them, was in a panic. It seemed there were way more chariots and warriors on the Aramean side than on their side. But Elisha assured him it was the other way around and then prayed that God would open his eyes to see. God did open his eyes and the servant saw horses and chariots of fire on the mountains all around them. He no doubt breathed a huge sigh of relief! 

We are often like Elisha’s unnamed servant, panicking when all we can see are the obstacles and problems in our lives. They loom so large we can feel like there’s nothing we can do except turn tail and run. But we need only ask God to let us see that more are with us than against us. Our problems can be overwhelming, but when God opens our eyes to the reality all around us, we too will see the horses and chariots of fire, and we can be assured that God is already working for us and fighting our battles. 

At times, we’re all tempted to panic, fearing the worst and cowering against the onslaught of life’s vicissitudes. Elisha knew there was more going on than it appeared and his servant learned that was true. Jesus often told his disciples not to be afraid. Let’s stop being afraid and open our eyes to see that more are with us than are against us. We can face whatever comes with courage, faith and confidence that God is active, engaged and delivering – and he has the most chariots!

A slightly amended study that was first published on 10 February 2026, at www.gemsofgodsgrace.wordpress.com a personal blog which is not sponsored by Grace Communion International.

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