Another interesting element in the story of Naaman, the Syrian warrior and leper who sought healing from Yahweh, is the manner in which he received his miracle. After the King of Israel tore his robes because he assumed that the King of Aram was sending his commander, Naaman, to wage war, the prophet Elisha got wind of the incident. He knew that God was willing to “bend the rules” and heal this Gentile for the glory of His Name, so he asked that he be sent to his house. Interestingly, though the Aramean army’s intention wasn’t to incite military action, Scripture tells us that Naaman was accompanied by a throng of chariots and horses when he journeyed to the prophet’s residence. This must have been quite a sight considering that a presumably quiet Jewish village was being overrun by the military might of a neighboring nation. No doubt, such a display piqued the curiosity of local inhabitants, but by his indifferent response to the visitors, we can assume that Elisha was not amused. In fact, when the entourage finally arrived at his front door, he didn’t bother to go outside and greet them. Instead, he sent a messenger to deliver word of how Naaman could obtain his healing — go and wash seven times in the Jordan River. However, since the warrior was expecting to be properly greeted by the prophet, these seemingly insignificant directions angered him, and he walked away furious. 

My friend, remember that healing doesn’t always look the way you think it will. Though it’s easy to adopt preconceived notions about the manner and timing of your miracle, you are not in control of the process. In fact, stepping out in obedience to your Savior means surrendering your pride, even if it requires you to do something that appears foolish in the eyes of the world. Don’t scoff at divine instruction simply because it doesn’t fit your mold; instead, seek the Lord’s wisdom, listen to His voice, and respond to His requests with bold faith. He is not impressed by your chariots, horses, worldly wealth or credentials — He is only concerned about an abiding trust that manifests itself in humble deference to His divinity. Follow His lead, take action, and watch as He uses the foolish things of the world to confound your human wisdom.