The account of the floating axe head is found in 2 Kings 6:1–7 and reveals God’s concern for the needs of His people, even in small, personal matters. It also demonstrates the authority of God working through His prophet Elisha.
The sons of the prophets were expanding their dwelling place and went to the Jordan River to cut down trees. As one of them was chopping, the iron axe head fell into the water, and he cried out:
“‘Alas, master! For it was borrowed.’ So the man of God said, ‘Where did it fall?’ And he showed him the place. So he cut off a stick, and threw it in there; and he made the iron float.”
(2 Kings 6:5–6)
This miracle is striking because it involves no public display, no battle, and no national crisis. Instead, it focuses on a humble need, the loss of a borrowed tool. In ancient times, iron was expensive and not easily replaceable. The man’s distress was real.
Elisha’s response shows that God’s power is not limited to grand events. He acts with precision, care, and compassion. The use of a stick to make the iron float has no scientific explanation, it was a divine act.
The miracle affirms:
God’s attention to the needs of the faithful
The authority of Elisha as a prophet
That God intervenes even in the seemingly mundane aspects of life
It also reminds believers that nothing is too small to bring before the Lord. He is not only the God of fire from heaven and parted seas, but also of lost tools and personal burdens.
This account reveals a God who is both powerful and present, engaged in the lives of His people at every level.
