Lost but Found: The Story of the Lost Axe Head

Scripture: “As one of them was cutting down a tree, the iron axe head fell into the water. ‘Oh no, my lord!’ he cried out. ‘It was borrowed!’ The man of God asked, ‘Where did it fall?’ When he showed him the place, Elisha cut a stick and threw it there, and made the iron float.”— 2 Kings 6:5-6 (NIV)

Devotional Thoughts

In the account of the lost axe head, we find a simple yet profound story that speaks to our everyday experiences. The sons of the prophets were working diligently to build a place of dwelling, and in their efforts, a borrowed axe head slipped from the handle and fell into the Jordan River. The loss was significant because the axe was borrowed—an indication of the importance of stewardship and responsibility.

Imagine the sinking feeling in the heart of the man who lost the axe head. It wasn’t his, and now it was gone, seemingly irretrievable. How often do we find ourselves in similar situations? We may lose something valuable—time, opportunities, relationships, or even our spiritual fervor. These losses can weigh heavily on us, especially when we feel responsible for them.

But the story doesn’t end with loss; it ends with a miraculous recovery. When the man cried out to Elisha, the prophet asked a simple question, “Where did it fall?” This question is vital. Often, the first step in recovery is acknowledging where and how we’ve lost something. It requires honesty and reflection.

Elisha’s response was to cut a stick, throw it into the water, and miraculously, the axe head floated to the surface. Iron doesn’t float naturally, but God specializes in doing the impossible. What was lost was found, not by human effort, but by divine intervention.

This story reminds us that no loss is too great for God to restore. What have you lost in your life? Is it joy, peace, a sense of purpose, or maybe even your faith? God can make the "iron" float. He can bring back what seems irretrievably gone. The key is to bring your loss to Him, just as the man brought his problem to Elisha.

Sometimes, God uses the most unexpected means to restore what has been lost. A stick thrown into the water seems insignificant, yet it became the instrument of a miracle. In the same way, God can use small, seemingly insignificant actions or events to bring about restoration in your life.

Practical Reflection

Closing Thoughts

The story of the lost axe head reminds us that nothing is truly lost when we place it in God’s hands. No matter how deep the waters of loss may seem, God’s power is greater. He can restore what we thought was gone forever, often in ways we never expected. As you go forward, trust in His ability to recover what has been lost in your life. With God, what is lost can indeed be found.

Prayer

Lord, I come to You today acknowledging the areas of my life where I have experienced loss. Just as the ax head was lost in the water, I have lost things that are precious to me. But I believe that You are the God who can make the iron float. Restore to me what has been lost, and help me to trust in Your miraculous power. Guide me to the places where I need to be, and use even the smallest acts of obedience to bring about great restoration. In Jesus' name, Amen.