How can we trust God in dire circumstances, unlike the people in 2 Kings 6? The Crisis in Samaria – 2 Kings 6:28 “Then the king asked her, ‘What is the matter with you?’ She answered, ‘This woman said to me, “Give up your son that we may eat him, and we will eat my son tomorrow.”’ (2 Kings 6:28) • A literal, historical famine so severe that parents contemplated cannibalism • A king wearing sackcloth but blaming God (v. 31) instead of trusting Him • People focused on their empty stomachs more than the living God who had delivered Israel countless times Where Trust Went Wrong • Fixing eyes on circumstances, not on the Lord (cf. Numbers 13:31–33) • Forgetting past deliverances: Israel had seen God feed them with manna and quail (Exodus 16) • Listening to fear-filled voices instead of God’s prophet Elisha (2 Kings 6:32) • Believing starvation proved God’s failure rather than their need for repentance Why We Can Trust God in Our Own Crises • His character is unchanging: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). If He provided then, He provides now. • His power is unlimited: “Ah, Lord GOD… nothing is too difficult for You” (Jeremiah 32:17). • His promises are certain: “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). • His track record is flawless: famine ended overnight when God routed the Arameans (2 Kings 7:6-7). Practical Ways to Anchor Trust Today • Remember: keep a written record of answered prayers and past rescues (Psalm 77:11-12). • Rehearse Scripture aloud: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1). • Refuse despairing speech: Elijah’s servant saw only horses and chariots until God opened his eyes (2 Kings 6:17). • Replace worry with prayer and thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6-7). • Reach out for fellowship; isolation magnifies fear (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Resolve to obey even when resources look scarce—obedience positions us for miracles (1 Kings 17:13-16). Rehearsing God’s Faithfulness: Bible Snapshots • Joseph: sold, imprisoned, then elevated (Genesis 50:20). • Israelites at the Red Sea: no escape yet water parted (Exodus 14:21-22). • Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego: flames present, God present-er (Daniel 3:24-25). • Paul and Silas: chained, singing, then earth-shaking deliverance (Acts 16:25-26). Promises to Hold in Dire Circumstances • Romans 8:28 – “We know that all things work together for good to those who love God.” • Isaiah 41:10 – “Do not fear, for I am with you… I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” • Lamentations 3:22-23 – “Because of the LORD’s loving devotion we are not consumed… great is Your faithfulness.” • Matthew 6:31-33 – “Do not worry… seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Conclusion – Faith That Looks Up, Not Around Dire circumstances expose where we place our confidence. Samaria’s famine revealed unbelief; God’s overnight deliverance revealed His steadfast faithfulness. Set your gaze on the unchanging character of the Lord, rehearse His Word, and step forward in obedience. He remains wholly trustworthy—especially when every earthly support gives way. |
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