The journey through the book of Hebrews will be a long one (we will most likely be studying our topic “The Joy in Responsibility” in Hebrews for six months or so) and a fruitful one (as journeys through God’s Word always are).

Yesterday (Nov. 6^th), we started to lay the foundation for joy in our lives. The author of Hebrews wants us to understand the proper place that Jesus has in Creation and our personal lives. He is Superior.

It’s only with Right Thinking that Right Living can be achieved. We must have Jesus in His rightful place in our lives.

As an example of Right Thinking affecting the way we live, I am embedding a TED talk by Dr. Kelly McGonigal, Stanford University psychologist and leader in the growing field of “science-help.” Through books, articles, courses and workshops, McGonigal works to help us understand and implement the latest scientific findings in psychology, neuroscience and medicine.

Although McGonigal doesn’t acknowledge God’s perfect design and His revealed Truth, her data supports the reality of Right Thinking that the author of Hebrews asserts. Listen to the talk and then move on to the homework section.

Your homework:

Read 2 Kings 6:8-23 Elisha Traps Syria’s Army (2 Kings 6:8–23)

Commentary:

When Elisha and his servant awake, they discover the city surrounded by Syrians. Like any “normal” person, the servant is afraid, but the prophet commands him to stay calm. Why? Because, he claims, their army is more numerous and powerful than the Syrian forces. After Elisha prays that his servant may see these “soldiers,” the man indeed views “the hills full of horses and chariots of fire.” At this point the Lord is defending Elisha from death by the same instrument with which Elijah was protected from death and taken to heaven. Such awareness of God’s power must have soothed the servant’s shattered nerves.

Not content with protection for himself, Elisha provides safety for all Israel. God strikes the Syrian army with blindness at Elisha’s request, thus allowing the prophet to lead them to Samaria, about twelve miles north of Dothan. Though Israel’s king could exterminate these troops, Elisha counsels leniency, so the Israelites feed the Syrians and send them home, obviously humbled. In effect, then, Elisha brings peace through divine intervention. Everyone concerned receives safety from their enemies because of the prophet’s ministry. Again Elisha aids those in distress over “small” matters, such as a lost axhead, and those concerned with larger, societal issues such as war.^[1]

Questions:

As the morning began, how did the thinking of Elisha and his servant differ?

When the servants eyes were opened, I am sure his heart was still pounding…but how was it different from just moments before?

Remember:

We worship Victorious Jesus; perfect in every way!

The universe is filled with helpers!