Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. (2 Cor. 8:2)
WHEN I WAS A CHILD, I loved stories of covered wagons, especially those that circled up to protect the settlers from attack. I never could figure out why they chose to defend themselves in this way. It was not until my family experienced our own attack that I understood. Last summer our five-year-old grandson had an accident that left him with a spinal cord injury. With pain and the unknown all around, we felt attacked from all sides. That’s when I realized how powerful the circling up really is. Just as in the story of Elisha, in times of fear, it is important to be surrounded by prayer and God’s presence.
In our case, even before we asked the believing community surrounded us in a cocoon of love. Our every need was met. The outpouring of love, prayers, and support was humbling. And when we could no longer go on, when we had no more tears or prayers, the sacred community of believers circled the wagons and fought the battle for us.
So if you are ever in a situation that is too difficult and too big, remember, as Elisha said, “Those who are with us are more than those who are with them” (2 Kings 6:16). Call on God’s people to circle the wagons. He will send His prayer warriors to fight the battle of faith for you.
In any situation, look up to the heavens and remember you are not alone.
Marty Norman is a wife, mother, and grandmother. She is an avid reader, loves to hike, and is passionate about mission work.
