I once had a boss who wielded the ultimate power in our organization. It was his goal to make sure we never forgot who was in charge. Though he was successful in gaining an iron grip within our office, the net result was that this man was very lonely. How different it could have been if he had humbled himself and formed friendly relationships with his employees!
Naaman was the commander of the army of the king of Aram (2 Kings 5:1), one of Israel’s enemies. The New International Version says that Naaman was “a great man,” which can literally be translated a “big man” (2 Kings 5:1). He had won important battles and conquered powerful foes. This big man, though a mighty warrior, also suffered from leprosy. He could wield a blade of iron and crush opposing enemies, but he couldn’t stop his body from breaking down due to disease.
There comes a moment for each of us when we arrive face-to-face with our limitations or the horrible reality of a world out of our control. We can’t protect our kids. We can’t stop the disease. We can’t keep a relationship from failing.
Naaman’s Jewish slave girl told his wife that the prophet Elisha could heal him (2 Kings 5:3). But when he went to see Elisha, the prophet’s strange instructions were for the great warrior to wash seven times in the Jordan River (2 Kings 5:10). Naaman left in a huff, disturbed that Elisha asked him to do such a humble, random thing (2 Kings 5:11). The military man’s officers, however, convinced him to go through with the simple plan (2 Kings 5:13). He took the plunge (several times!) and was healed (2 Kings 5:14).
Naaman learned what we all must discover: When we’re overwhelmed by our own “bigness” (our ego), we have no room to receive God.
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Genesis 49:1-33
More:
Read John 3:27-30. How do John the Baptist’s words echo Naaman’s story? How do they echo your own?
Next:
How have you been tempted recently to worry too much about yourself and your reputation? How does Naaman’s story affect your view of what God is doing in your life?
Gary Shultz on January 30, 2015 at 7:10 am
I think most if not many of us have experienced that kind of boss. I hate it! I have grown to understand we need people with vision and plans. In this way we as Christians are spoiled; have experienced a Lord of love, care and understanding. And I understand my job now is more to reveal than to rebel. It’s a tuff pill, prayer helps. The process is also useful if leadership ever becomes an opportunity……Life with others, just what was planned. Thanks, have fun.
Winn Collier on February 1, 2015 at 7:22 am
Yes, Gary, a big distinction between vision and insecure authoritarianism.
tgustafs on January 30, 2015 at 7:49 am
Excellent point, Gary. We Christians are spoiled by a Lord of love. Hadn’t thought of it quite that way before.
Winn Collier on February 1, 2015 at 7:24 am
spoiled by love – I like that
Mike Wittmer on January 30, 2015 at 8:53 am
Great points, Winn. I think we all realize deep down that we are fragile and insecure. If only we had the grace to admit it and let others in.
Winn Collier on February 1, 2015 at 7:23 am
It’s really difficult to be bold with our weakness, isn’t it?
alli1 on January 30, 2015 at 9:03 am
John was willing to humble himself so someone better could get the job done. pride can blind us to our weaknesses, it is a hard thing to admit when God chooses someone better then you. but remaining humble is the only way to be used. being fully aware of my own inadequacy and that I only have a part to play.
Tom Felten on January 30, 2015 at 9:09 am
Winn, you’re right, life has a way of humbling us and bringing us to our knees. Where we go from there—running to God or running from Him—makes all the difference.