Bold Faith

“Four leprous men . . . said to one another, ‘Why do we sit here until we die? . . . Let us go over to the camp of the Arameans. If they spare us, we will live; and if they kill us, we will but die.’”
2 Kings 7:3-4 NASB

Food was running out, and there didn’t seem to be any hope. In fact, facing a deadly siege by the Syrian (Aramean) army, panic spread throughout the land.

But the prophet Elisha wasn’t worried. While others despaired, he proclaimed that God would end this crisis by “tomorrow.” To others, this prophecy seemed a fantasy, that it never could be true.

But four simple lepers reacted differently. These outcasts felt that they had nothing to lose. If they did nothing, they would die along with the rest of Israel. If they went to the camp of the Arameans, they might be killed. But they also might live.

So, while the rest of Israel did nothing, these men took action. And, when they stepped out, they discovered that the Lord had caused the Aramean army to hear sounds of chariots, horses, and soldiers. To these Syrians, it sounded like Israel had hired the Hittites and Egyptians, and that they were attacking.

So the entire army “fled for their life,” leaving “the camp just as it was,” with all their supplies and riches. God had kept His Word and performed a miracle. But only these four lepers knew it.

How easy it can be to be like the Israelites. Filled with doubt. Not really believing God. So worried and preoccupied that we do nothing, and feel defeated. But the Bible tells us that faith without works is dead. That we prove our faith is genuine when we go into action. When we step out in faith (James 2:17-18).

Don’t allow your life to be dominated by doubt and disbelief. And don’t sit back, doing nothing. Put your faith into action.

Prayer: Father, I commit these situations to You: _______. Free me from doubt. Help me to be bold. I believe You for miracles and victory! All things are possible with You! In Jesus’ name. Amen.