Naaman's Guide

Not too many people hope to get the skin-destroying disease called leprosy. Naaman, a commander of a huge army, was unfortunate enough to become a leper. Sorrowful about his plight, he sought to be cured.

Eventually, with the blessing of his king and the guidance of a young girl, he arrived in Israel, seeking the healing of God. The prophet Elisha heard of Naaman and embarked to show him that God was with Israel. He instructed Naaman to take a dip in the Jordan River seven times, telling him that then he would be healed. Naaman was a little downtrodden at this news; he had hoped for a healing that Elisha would do himself.

After a bit of convincing by his servants and attendants, Naaman did as Elisha told him. After taking seven baths in the Jordan River, he was healed!

In this story, our main characters might be Naaman, Elisha, and God (obviously), but one minor character stands out as the most crucial: the young girl. This girl was a prisoner of war from Israel, as Israel had been attacked by Naaman's army. After she was captured, she began working in service of Naaman's wife. While there, she heard of the leprosy that began to plague Naaman. She knew where he could find cure and she had faith and courage enough to tell Naaman her thoughts.

This girl could have cursed Naaman, saying that he is only sick because of his sin, his evil, or his attack on God's people. Instead, she helpfully instructed Naaman to go and be healed by the prophet of God, who she apparently believed in. We can learn a lot from this girl.

In the times when we have opportunity to lead others to God, speak kindly, confidently, respectfully, and boldly about the greatness of God. People need to know of his grace and power, we have the privilege of bearing his good news just as this young girl told Naaman of the prophet Elisha.

Follow her example. Guide others to God without alienating them from his grace. To do so would diminish someone's view of his love and may deny many of his blessing. Guide others to the grace of God.