21 AUGUST

THE MUDDY JORDAN RIVER  

“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 5:10)

I remember, on our visit to Israel, at the source of the Jordan River, we all collected the water in bottles and had to be reminded by our guide that there was no power in the water itself. In fact, the river itself was muddy.

Naaman was the commander of the mighty army of the king of Syria and a hero. Here, he was at the door of Elisha’s house. Elisha did not even come out to see him. He just sent his servant with the instruction in today’s verse.

The mighty Naaman had expected more respect and royal treatment. He was livid to be told to go and wash – not even once but seven times – in the small and muddy Jordan River. The rivers in Damascus were larger and cleaner. However, he eventually had to “put his tail between his legs” and obey completely to receive his miracle and blessing.

How often do we think we deserve more respect than we get? Sometimes we forgo certain advantages because of our bruised egos. Do we miss God’s blessings too because we do not fully understand His ways? Humility and obedience are great virtues for the man or woman God uses.

ACTION: Resolve to humbly obey God, as you expect to receive His blessings. Remember that He can use anything to accomplish His purposes.

PRAYER: Lord, please grant me grace and wisdom to hear and obey you.