In the right setting, fire is something that can draw us in, making us feel warm and secure -- a campfire, a corner fireplace, a cabin wood stove.  In the wrong places, however, fire is something we try to protect ourselves from, which is why we have firefighters, fire doors, and firewalls.  My heart breaks for those whose very lives are threatened by the wildfires on the island of Maui even now.  All too often, with fire comes destruction, but could it be that God can use fire for our protection too?

In answer to prayer, the eyes of Elisha's servant were opened to see that "the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around" (2 Kings 6:17).  All fear of the imposing army of Syria was now dispelled in view of God's angel armies, so glorious that they could only be compared to horses and chariots of fire.  For Elisha and his servant, being surrounded by this heaven-sent fire did not produce anxiety but security from enemy attacks.  

This is what God does for those who place their trust in Him.  He surrounds us, secures us, protects us.  

The Bible depicts God's encircling presence through a variety of metaphors.  With eyes of faith, we can trust that God surrounds us like immovable mountains around Jerusalem (Ps. 125:2) and even like the fortified city walls of Jerusalem (Ps. 48:12:14, NLT).  But beyond any mountain that could be climbed or wall that could be torn, God wants His people in all generations to also be certain of His presence as a fire that no enemy could overcome:

"Then I, myself, will be a protective wall of fire around Jerusalem," says the Lord. "And I will be the glory inside the city!" (Zech. 2:5, NLT).

We may be feeling burdened by the attacks of the enemy, things that threaten our physical safety or spiritual standing in subtle or overt ways.  Friends, let's pray that God would grant us eyes of faith to the God who surrounds us and pledges to make us more than conquerors (Rom. 8:37).  May we rest in the promises of God who not only sends angel armies of fire but also pledges to be Himself a wall of fire around us.