Naaman: Simple Obedience
Read 2 Kings 5:1–19
If the prophet had told you to
do some great thing, would you not have done it? 2
Kings 5:13
Big goals and ambitious dreams can be exhilarating and
inspiring. It’s easy to get passionate about “changing the world” or “reaching
this generation for Christ.” But what about faithfulness in small things and
everyday responsibilities? Can we get excited about those?
The story of Naaman teaches us that simple obedience is
important to God. Naaman was the military commander of the Syrian army. Though
acknowledged as a valiant warrior, he won his victories because God had
empowered him (v. 1). Tragically, he had leprosy (Hansen’s disease) or another
skin disease. At that time, there was no cure.
Naaman took two important steps of faith in today’s reading.
First, he listened to a Jewish slave girl, believed her, and did as she
advised. This young girl, who had been captured in a border skirmish,
generously and boldly told her mistress, Naaman’s wife, about the power of God
to heal through His prophet (vv. 2–3). Though Naaman’s attempt to go through
normal diplomatic channels led to a rather comic misunderstanding, he acted in
good faith and God honoured that (v. 8).
Second, Naaman listened to his servants, accepted their
correction, and went to dip himself in the Jordan River (vv. 13–14). Perhaps
flustered by what had transpired with the king of Israel, Naaman felt offended
and angered by Elisha’s unexpected instructions (vv. 9–12). But when his
servants argued, in essence, “What have you got to lose?” he set aside his
pride, did as Elisha said, and was healed. Naaman then gave glory to God and
indicated that he would worship the Lord from now on. Taking soil from Israel
on which to build an altar signified that he intended to worship Israel’s God,
despite the fact that as part of his official duties he might be obligated to
attend other religious ceremonies back home (vv. 15–19).
Has God called you to a “small thing” that you’re resisting?
Perhaps it’s being a faithful employee at work, or being a tender parent, or
being a faithful prayer warrior. Whatever God has given you to do, resolve to
do it in obedience to God. Who knows what miracles God may work through your
obedience in the small things?
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