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MADE FOR THIS MOMENT: NAAMAN

Called to be Humble

READY

Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you.--James 4:10 NASB20

SET

Have you ever thought, “I know exactly how this is going to go,” or “My problem is going to be solved by ____”? If you’re like me, I can get feisty when those thoughts don’t play out according to plan, even if the result is good. This attitude is saying that I think I know better than God. I believe my way is better than His, and He should have done it my way.

Naaman is not someone we frequently talk about, but his story in the Old Testament is not one to be overlooked. Naaman was not an Israelite, which means he was not one of God’s chosen people. Naaman was a commander of the Syrian army, the number two man in charge of Israel’s enemy. While a mighty warrior, he suffered from leprosy, a significant skin disease. This disease largely defined him because it was an incurable infection.

Children were taken from their families as the Syrian army raided Israelite camps. One of the captured Israelite girls became the maid to Naaman’s wife, and she told them about a prophet of the Lord, Elisha, who could heal Naaman’s leprosy. What amazing news for Naaman! He trusted this little girl's words and sought the Lord for healing.

When Naaman traveled to see Elisha, Elisha told him to wash in the Jordan River seven times so that his skin would be restored. You would think Naaman would be overwhelmed with gratitude and joy, but he wasn’t. He was furious because he must dip his body in the muddy waters of the Jordan River. He wanted to go to other rivers because he thought they were the best ones in Israel. Naaman thought he knew the best way to be healed. He thought his plan was best, but couldn’t he have healed himself in the first place if that were the case?

When met with healing, Naaman couldn’t get out of his own way. His pride overtook him, and he couldn’t see the Lord's goodness right before him. While Naaman didn’t want to listen to Elisha, he did listen to his servants’ advice. Naaman was made for this moment, but he had to humble himself and submit to God’s plan. He didn’t get to that place of humility on his own and needed help and guidance. We cannot walk this journey of faith on our own. We need others to show us how we are made for the moments God is giving to us.

GO

• Who can you trust to help you see the Lord's goodness and His plan for you?
• Where do you need to get out of your own way and humble yourself so you can walk in the moment God has for you?

WORKOUT

2 Kings 5:1-19; Psalm 34

OVERTIME

God, Thank You that You are God, and I am not. Help me to remember that truth as I walk in the moments You present to me and prepare me for. Help me to have eyes to see and ears to hear You. Help me to get out of Your way, so I can experience the fullness of Your plans and purpose for my life. Amen.