He was instructed to “go and wash” within the river Jordan seven occasions, and he was not completely happy (2 Kings 5:1-14). Naaman had include expectations formed by energy, standing, and success. As commander of the Syrian military, he was accustomed to honor, technique, and management. Leprosy had already wounded his physique, however the instruction he obtained from the prophet struck at one thing deeper—his pleasure. The Jordan River was unimpressive, the command was easy, and the method felt beneath him. What God required didn’t match what Naaman imagined therapeutic ought to appear like.
Naaman’s anger reveals how troublesome obedience could be when God’s directions problem our assumptions. He anticipated a dramatic second, a prophetic show, or a technique that mirrored his significance. As a substitute, he was instructed to do one thing strange, repetitive, and humbling. The Jordan represented submission, not sophistication. But the quantity seven, symbolizing completeness, meant Naaman couldn’t partially obey. Therapeutic wouldn’t come by means of negotiation or revision, however by means of full give up. God was not solely addressing his illness; He was reshaping his coronary heart.
Many people wrestle in related methods. When God’s course feels too easy, too sluggish, or too humbling, we’re tempted to withstand. We would like options that really feel highly effective and speedy. We would like solutions that affirm our competence and management. Nonetheless, God typically chooses strategies that strip away self-reliance in order that religion can develop. Like Naaman, we’re typically offended not by what God asks us to do, however by how He asks us to do it.
Naaman’s therapeutic got here when he listened to wiser voices and obeyed absolutely (v. 13). When he stepped into the water the seventh time, his pores and skin was restored, however extra importantly, his perspective was reworked. The muddy river turned a spot of renewal as a result of obedience met grace there. At the moment, God nonetheless works by means of humble steps and repeated faithfulness. The miracle could not come by means of spectacular means, however by means of trusting Him sufficient to do what He says, even when it feels uncomfortable. What appears like muddy water often is the very place the place God restores us utterly. Might God train us to imagine that His grace meets us in obedience and that He’s devoted to revive what’s damaged.
