2 Kings 5:11

New International Version (NIV)

I thought that he would surely come out to me and stand and call on the name of the Lord his God, wave his hand over the spot and cure me of my leprosy.

For Meditation

What is wrong with people? What makes us think we should get everything we wish, or that everything should be done our way, as if the world revolves around us? Rich or poor, we’re all basically selfish. We push people around with authority, if we have it, or by emotional manipulation. We demand and claim without respect for the interest of others; and when our expectations are unmet, we go bonkers. Only when we submit to the Holy Spirit’s control do we consider the interest of others.

Naaman, the Aramean General came with a retinue of horses and chariots to the door of the prophet Elisha for healing from his leprosy. He expected a welcome that recognized his rank, but Elisha sent a messenger to say to him, “Go wash yourself seven times in the Jordan, and your flesh will be restored and you will be cleansed” (2 Kings 5:9 -10). That was insolence to the General’s ears.

The whip cracked, and the wheels of the chariot squealed, as the General turned away at top speed towards his country.

 “I thought that he would surely come out to me and stand and call on the name of the Lord his God, wave his hand over the spot and cure me of my leprosy” (11).

If wishes were horses, Naaman would have ridden them to his healing and cleansing. But God is not human to be manipulated. He is sovereign and does things his way.

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD (Isa. 55:8).

God’s way for the healing and cleansing of Naaman’s leprosy sounded foolishness to the Syrian General (1 Cor. 1:18). He wished his healing came by way of his experience. Elisha’s words insulted his intelligence, and he wouldn’t be humiliated by the so-called prophet.

1. Isn’t that how we act with God sometimes?
2. Don’t we go to Him with our rehearsed expectations for ready answers the way we want them?
3. Do you see how many Christians command God in their prayers, as a master to their servant?
4. How many times have you walked away from God, grumbling and complaining like your “little darling” who always want their way?
5. Do you see why many people turn away from Jesus when they can’t fit Him in their selfish and worldly ways? But is there any other way to be saved apart from a clean wash in Calvary’s flood (Eph. 2:18-19)?

I pray you’ll remember that God wants to receive and hear from us at any time (Heb. 4:16). Our needs are His desire to satisfy (Matt. 6:25-34). However, our expectations should line up with His will; for He knows what’s best for us.

So: May you ask, seek, and knock on heaven’s door and expect your Father in heaven to answer you (7:7-11); but, may you remember that your wishes are only realized in Christ Jesus, our Sovereign Lord and King.

Shalom