At 12 years old, my tonsils were removed. When I woke up the next morning in the hospital, I was afraid. I was in an unfamiliar place and unable to talk, but when I looked at the door-my mother was walking into the room. Once I saw her, my eyes filled with tears, and the feeling of fear went away because of her presence. In 2 Kings 6:15-17 one of the servants of the prophet Elisha woke in the morning, and saw an army had surrounded the city. He told Elisha and expected him to panic and be afraid like him. The opposite happened, Elisha attempted to console him and told him “don’t be afraid, there are more with us, than there are with them.”
These words did nothing to ease the mind of his servant. Because, all he could see was the vast army that was against them, and how small they were in comparison. The servant did not understand the presence of the Lord was with them. Therefore, he needed to see the presence to understand. Elisha prayed to the Lord to open his eyes and for the servant to see the Lord’s presence. Once his eyes were open, he saw the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire, and they were around Elisha. Wow! Prior to the Lord opening his eyes, he saw those that were with them were small. However, when he saw the presence of the Lord through the horses and chariots of fire, then he realized how big the presence of the Lord was. I can imagine him saying “Lord, thank you, for your presence!”
What situation are you facing that is overwhelming you? Does it appear greater than what you have? The reason you see it that way is, because you are not seeing the presence of the Lord in your life. I’m praying that the Lord will open your eyes to see His presence. The way you will see His presence is by getting into His word, and taking time to pray. When you do, a peace will come over you, and let you know everything will be alright. This is what the presence of the Lord will do for you! Then you will be able to say “Lord, thank you, for your presence.”