“Naaman’s servants went to him and said, ‘My father, if the prophet had told you to do some great thing, would you not have done it? How much more, then, when he tells you, “Wash and be cleansed”!’ So he went down and dipped himself in the Jordan seven times, as the man of God had told him, and his flesh was restored and became clean like that of a young boy.”
– 2 Kings 5:13,14
Though we saw yesterday that Naaman was angry when Elisha had his messenger tell him to go and wash in the Jordan River instead of greeting him in person to heal him, that wasn’t the end of the story. Luckily for him, he had servants surrounding him who spoke truth and helped him come back to his senses. While the warrior was reacting from a place of pride and couldn’t look beyond the seemingly meaningless simplicity of what he was being asked to do, his comrades offered a different perspective. Rather than seeing through the eyes of offense, they chose to focus on the simple faith required, and they encouraged their master to consider “giving it a shot.” After all, he had already made the long journey from Damascus, so what did he have to lose? Thankfully, Naaman heeded their advice, considered the possibility of a miracle, and yielded his ego. He went and dipped himself in the waters of the Jordan seven times, and just as had been promised, he was healed. In fact, the Bible says that his flesh was restored and his skin became like that of a young boy — probably better than ever! Had it not been for the advice of his friends, however, he may never have known the joy of being fully cured. My friend, God uses people to spur you on to His best so you can see your miracle manifest! While it can be difficult to take advice from others, it’s important to have ears that are open to receiving sound counsel, regardless of its source. Your Savior speaks through unlikely subjects, and sometimes His direction is provided by those who typically take direction from you. That said, it’s crucial to maintain a humility of heart that listens to understand, especially when someone cares enough to voice their concern. While you should by no means internalize everything spoken by another, comparing their advice to the words of Scripture and weighing their thoughts with wisdom can lead to a more fruitful, free, and faithful life! |
Prayer
Jesus, teach me to heed the words and wisdom of others, especially those who care enough to voice their concern.
Reflection
Has the counsel of another ever prompted you to do something you otherwise would not have? What was the result?
If you’re unable to attend your local church or need some additional weekly inspiration, be sure to tune into Hour of Power every Saturday night at 6:30 p.m. PT on TBN or watch online at hourofpower.org/episode.
One Response
Hello Bobby.
I was so moved by your sermon on Sunday 20.09.2020. You were talking about the Crystal Cathedral and your Grandpa Robert Schuller. I went to a service there and loved everything and Robert Schuller. At that service I remember he had introduced a Christian network radio into communist country.
It brought back such memories. My husband was at a Water conference in Anaheim at that time. I listened to Robert Schuller in South Africa so I want to go and see the Crystal Cathedral. I received a letter once I arrived back in SA from CC. I was very glad.
Bless you Bobby and Hanna and your church. May you continue the wonderful work you do.
Kind regards
Maureen