Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Obedience

Focus verses: II Kings 5:1-14

The name Naaman comes from a root that means pleasant or delightful. But Naaman was highly thought of because he was the commander of the army for the king of Aram when God gave the victory to Aram.

He is not an Israelite, but he does have leprosy. This term was used for all kinds of skin diseases, not just the actual disease of leprosy. In the battle, there was a captive Israelite girl who served Naaman's wife. She told him about Elisha.

But Elisha was not impressed. He didn't even see Naaman when he came to him for healing. He simply sent his servant to tell him to "dip in the Jordan seven times." What an odd thing!

Naaman was incensed. He expected that the prophet would come out and make a show and heal him on the spot. But go wash in the Jordan! He had rivers at home. Why wouldn't they do as well?

God has criteria for blessing. One of those criteria is obedience. Whether it seems to make sense to us or not. We are to obey God. It may be something silly. Or it may sound unwise -- even dangerous. But God expects obedience. Once you have ascertained that it is God telling you to do something, not obeying is a sure recipe for disaster.

And don't be deceived. Delayed obedience is disobedience. When God speaks, we are to move immediately. Naaman's obedience was rewarded with healing.

Father, God,

Keep us ever close to You so that we recognize Your voice instantaneously. Grant us the willing hearts for instantaneous and unquestioning obedience.
In Jesus' most precious name.
Amen.

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