Last month, we began to explore the challenges that uncertainty creates in our lives. When we are unsure about how God addresses our past, it leads to insecurity concerning our salvation. This is problematic because our understanding of our relationship with Christ significantly impacts how we live in His kingdom in the present.
We all know what it feels like to navigate uncertainty in our lives. Whether you are dating in high school and unsure whether it will last or anxiously waiting to see if you’ll receive a pink slip at work, such situations can make the present feel unbearably uncertain. Outcomes of tests or visits to the emergency room can add to this anxiety. Often, this uncertainty manifests as either bottled-up emotions or an outpouring of frustration, both of which can lead to difficulties.
In 2 Kings 6, Elisha and his servant find themselves in Dothan. Elisha has been informing the king of Israel about the movements of the king of Syria, which understandably infuriates the Syrian king. In response, he sends troops to Dothan to capture Elisha. When Elisha’s servant sees the troops surrounding the city the next morning, fear overwhelms him. The uncertainty of their dire situation prompts him to rush to Elisha for guidance.
Often, when we survey our current situation—whether dealing with health issues, relationship troubles, work challenges, or political unrest—the uncertainty can leave us seeking God’s direction.
In 2 Kings 6, Elisha reassures his servant, saying, “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” Elisha then prays for the Lord to open the eyes of his servant. When the servant looks out a second time, he sees chariots of fire surrounding the Syrian army. God was already present! He was ahead of both Elisha and the Syrians, working to protect them. It’s important to note that Elisha did not need to pray for God to send an army; the army was already there—sent by God!
When you encounter uncertainty today, meditate on 2 Kings 6. Remind yourself that God is already ahead of you. He will not be caught off guard by the challenges you face. While you may be surprised by how God orchestrates everything for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28), He has been planning for your good since before the creation of the world. When you firmly believe that God loves you and that Christ’s sacrifice is sufficient for your salvation, it enables you to live in the present with assurance, knowing that God is already preparing tomorrow to be a blessing for you when you arrive.
