How can we apply Naaman's story to our obedience to God's Word? Naaman’s Jarring Moment “ But Naaman was furious and left, saying, ‘I thought that for me he would surely come out, stand, call on the name of the LORD his God, wave his hand over the spot, and cure the leprosy.’ ” (2 Kings 5:11) Why He Bristled • He traveled with rank, prestige, and treasure—expecting royal treatment. • Elisha didn’t even greet him personally—just sent the simple command: “Go, wash in the Jordan seven times” (v. 10). • Pride collided with the plain word of God, and the result was anger. God’s Pattern: Simple Commands, Stunning Results • The walls of Jericho fell—not by siege engines, but by marching and shouting (Joshua 6). • Manna fed Israel daily—gathered exactly as instructed, nothing more (Exodus 16). • Jesus spread mud on a blind man’s eyes and told him to wash in Siloam—sight came through obedience (John 9:6-7). Lessons for Our Obedience • Expect God’s Word, not our own script. – Naaman said, “I thought that for me…” We often draft expectations God never promised. • Submit, even when the command feels beneath us. – “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” (James 4:6) • Trust the method because we trust the Master. – “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” (John 14:15) • Delayed obedience jeopardizes blessing. – Naaman’s servants pleaded; immediate obedience would have spared him the outburst. • Partial obedience is disobedience. – Saul spared Agag and the best livestock; God called it rebellion (1 Samuel 15:22-23). Supporting Passages That Echo the Call • Psalm 119:60 — “I hurried without hesitating to keep Your commandments.” • James 1:22 — “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deluding yourselves.” • Luke 6:46 — “Why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ but not do what I say?” Practical Takeaways for Today • When Scripture gives explicit instruction, set aside personal preference and comply—immediately. • Measure every “I thought that for me” against “Thus says the LORD.” • Keep a posture of humility; receive truth even if it comes through unexpected people or means. • Celebrate small, seemingly unimpressive acts of faith—God often attaches great blessing to simple steps. • Remember Naaman’s washed skin each time obedience feels inconvenient; the same God still rewards trust. |
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