Changing Perspective

Most of us will admit that we sometimes have fear and anxiety rise within us when life surprises us with conflict, sickness, or loss.  While this is a normal human response, we do not have to remain in fear, anxiety, or doubt. 

God’s desire is for us to change a fear-filled perspective to a perspective that is filtered by His Word.  

How do we do this? We can literally take examples from the Bible and apply the strategies to our lives.  Elisha in 2 Kings 6 teaches us how to change a fearful perspective into a faith-filled perspective.

In this chapter, we learn that Israel was at war with Syria.  Elisha was a great prophet of that time, and God often used him to help the king of Israel to outsmart the Syrian king.  During the midst of the heated battles between the two countries, Elisha’s servant woke early one morning.  Stepping outside, he discovered that his entire city was surrounded by the enemy’s army with horses and chariots. 

Imagine for one moment the overwhelming fear that must have stricken Elisha’s servant.  What should you do when you are overwhelmed with your circumstances? 

1. Ask God for Help

The Bible reveals that the servant immediately inquired of Elisha, “Alas, my master! What shall we do?”  At this point in history, Jesus had not yet paved the way for all people to have a direct and personal relationship with God.  The Israelites received God’s wisdom and direction through prophets such as Elisha.  His servant knew that there only hope was with God.  

Your plea for help need not be some fancy elaborate request.  When in doubt, follow the servant of Elisha’s sincere prayer:

God, please help me. What should I do?

Do Not Be Afraid

Have you noticed in the Bible that angels always command people to not fear?  Elisha instructed just as the angels commanded.  The first thing he told his servant was, “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.”

The Bible doesn’t address his servant’s response, but I have to wonder if he thought Elisha was crazy.  After all, his perspective was filled with the surrounding and massive enemy army.  There was no defending Israel army in his sight.  

Ask God to Show You His Perspective

When you don’t see any answer to your problem, find comfort in the fact that God is not surprised by anything.  He always has a plan to rescue you from trouble.