“And there were many in Israel with leprosy in the time of Elisha the prophet, yet not one of them was cleansed—only Naaman the Syrian.”
– Luke 4:27
 In spite of our best efforts, it’s amazing how much ego or the need for material things gets in the way of us actually doing what God has called us to do. As we discussed yesterday, Jesus’ hometown of Nazareth had a lack of faith compared to the faith of the widow of Zarephath. Additionally, Jesus spoke of faith through the leper Naaman the Syrian who was an army commander and may have been belligerent toward the Israelis. This great commander had leprosy, and he tried everything to get well. One of the servant girls was Jewish, and she told Naaman’s wife that if he would visit the prophet of Israel, in Samaria, he would heal him.
The journey of Naaman, along with his entourage and riches, led him to the King of Israel, but he was then redirected to the Prophet Elisha for healing. He traveled to Elisha’s home and was instructed by a messenger, “Go, wash yourself seven times in the Jordan, and your flesh will be restored and you will be cleansed.” Naaman was offended and his ego was bruised by Elisha’s choice of the river for healing and the lack of personal attention. After being encouraged by the servant girl, he obeyed and was healed! Naaman’s belief wasn’t the kind we think of. There was nothing exciting in his heart or any stirring up in a worship service. There was no yes, God is going to heal me! Begrudgingly, he went with a bruised ego, took a risk to his reputation, and received his healing. Friend, you and I also have the opportunity to set aside our ego and offenses, and bless the world with what God has called us to do! |
Prayer
Father, help me to put aside my ego and follow your instructions.
Reflection
Have you lost faith in God because of offenses?
If you’re unable to attend your local church or need some additional weekly inspiration, be sure to tune into Hour of Power every Sunday morning at 11:00 a.m. PT on TBN or watch online at hourofpower.org/episode.
