In the book of 2 kings 5:12, we find an exciting story of Prophet Elisha and Naaman, the commander of the Syria Army. There are many things we can learn from this story of the Bible.
Whatever is written in the Bible is for our benefit, to correct, instruct, improve and help us to live a better life. So let’s delve into the essential things we can learn from this story:
1. The Importance Of Sharing The Gospel
Naaman was a commander in the military and a well-known man in the nation of Syria, but he did not know who the living God was. That was because no one told him. Roman 10:14 says, “How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?”
There are so many people that have not received the gospel. They have not heard about what Jesus has done for them; They are still living their lives in their own ways because the gospel has not reached them.
The story goes further: Naaman became sick with Leprosy and began to seek a solution so that he would be cured of his leprosy; then, his Israelite servant girl suggested going to Prophet Elisha to be healed. The servant utilized the opportunity to give the gospel to the commander she was working for. 2 Kings 5:3 She said to her mistress, “If only my master would see the prophet who is in Samaria! He would cure him of his leprosy.”
This should be our lifestyle; using every moment you have to tell someone about Jesus and save their lives from the distortion of the wicked one.
2. Enter Into The Presence Of God With A Heart Of Gratitude
Naaman was convinced that the same God could heal him when he heard about the God of Israel and all the mighty things He had done. However, he did not go to Israel and before God with empty hands. His heart was full of gratitude just to know that there was a prophet of God in Israel who could cure his leprosy.
He left for Israel, taking with him different gifts to present before the people of God. His heart was grateful even when he had not received his healing yet. 2 Kings 5:4-5 Naaman went to his master and told him what the girl from Israel had said. “By all means, go,” the king of Aram replied. “I will send a letter to the king of Israel.” So Naaman left, taking ten talents[b] of silver, six thousand shekels[c] of gold, and ten sets of clothing.
We should also have this kind of mindset when we come before the presence of God. Our hearts must be filled with thanks for what he will do in our lives. We should always have a heart of thanksgiving coming before the Lord with our substance as we approach Him for our needs.
Philippians 4:6 “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.”
3. Your Success Is In Your Obedience To The Word Of God
As Naaman came to prophet Elisha, He gave him a specific instruction. He told him to go to the Jordan river and wash seven times, and he will be cleansed. This was what Naaman needed to become healed from Leprosy. Obeying God’s words makes us successful in our lives. As we study the word of God and follow His instruction concerning our lives, we will surely achieve our goals in life.
Naaman expected something else from the prophet, not what he instructed him to do. Still, his obedience to Elisha produced the healing he needed. 2 Kings 5: 10 says, “Elisha sent a messenger to say to him, “Go, wash seven times in the Jordan, and your flesh will be restored, you will be cleansed.”