Devotional
The story in 2 Kings 6 concludes with an unexpected twist. After God strikes the Syrian army with temporary blindness and Elisha leads them into Samaria, the king of Israel asks if he should kill them. Elisha’s response is revolutionary: “Set food and water before them, that they may eat and drink and go to their master.” This radical act of grace—feeding enemies rather than destroying them—completely transformed the relationship between Syria and Israel. The text tells us that the Syrian raiders stopped coming into Israel after experiencing this unexpected mercy. Grace has transformative power that judgment lacks. When we experience kindness we don’t deserve, it changes us at a fundamental level. It opens our eyes to see both ourselves and others differently. The Syrians, who had been spiritually blind to God’s power, had their perspective radically altered through this demonstration of divine mercy. This points to the ultimate act of grace—Jesus dying for people who were spiritually blind to His identity and purpose. Even as He hung on the cross, Jesus prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” For two thousand years, this grace has been opening blind eyes, helping people see God’s mercy and goodness. When we’re spiritually blind—whether through anger, fear, or sin—grace is God’s remedy. It’s through experiencing His undeserved kindness that our eyes are truly opened to see Him as He is.
Bible Verse
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.” – Ephesians 2:8
Reflection Question
How has experiencing God’s grace changed your perspective about yourself, others, or God Himself, and how might extending that same grace to others open their eyes to see God more clearly?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the transformative power of Your grace in my life. When I was spiritually blind, You opened my eyes to see Your goodness and mercy. Help me to extend that same grace to others, especially those who have wronged me. Use me as an instrument of Your grace to help open blind eyes to Your love. In Jesus’ name, amen.