The King of Aram laid siege to Samaria, the capital of Israel. The long siege created extreme famine in the city, and the people suffered unspeakably from starvation. As the helpless king of Israel was walking on the wall of the city to inspect conditions, he heard the most horrific and bleakest story of cannibalism. It must have sickened his heart. Yet, instead of turning his heart to God and waiting for God’s deliverance, he blamed God and his prophet for the whole affair and wanted to kill Elisha. This is a common response when life becomes very hard and difficult. Prolonged hardships are the times when we need to hold onto God and wait for him to help.

Elisha declared that within a day the siege would be over and there would be plenty to eat. After listening to Elisha, the officer scoffed at Elisha’s prophecy. He did not know that human extremity is God’s opportunity to demonstrate his power. Elisha assured the officer that the prophecy would come true, but his unbelief would cause him to miss God’s miraculous blessing. Failing to believe the promises of God results in failing to receive God’s blessings. God’s words of promise are meant to be fulfilled. We need to hold onto them and experience God’s blessings.
Application: Lord, help me turn my heart to you in times of difficulties, hold onto your words of promise, and wait for your help and blessing.
One Word: God can open the floodgates of heaven