THE SERVANT GIRL AND THE GENERAL
Read it
2 Kings 5:1-3
1 Now Naaman was commander of the army of the king of Aram. He was a great man in the sight of his master and highly regarded, because through him the Lord had given victory to Aram. He was a valiant soldier, but he had leprosy. 2 Now bands of raiders from Aram had gone out and had taken captive a young girl from Israel, and she served Naaman’s wife. 3 She said to her mistress, “If only my master would see the prophet who is in Samaria! He would cure him of his leprosy.” (2 Kings 5:1-3)
Discover It
The Kingdom of Aram (present day Syria) was ruthless and powerful during the time of Elisha. They would attack and raid other areas pillaging and taking slaves. Their commander was named Naaman and on one of their raids they took a young girl captive from Israel, forcing her into servanthood to Naaman’s wife. When a serious skin ailment plagued Naaman this young girl told her mistress about a prophet in the Israelite region of Samaria who could heal him of his leprosy. Although we don’t know the name of this girl, her simple act of helpfulness led to the healing and salvation of one of the most influential and powerful people in the world at that time. Her example inspires us today to speak up with words of healing about our powerful and gracious Lord! (And P.S. – The Lord healed Naaman!)
Ask It
1. Why do you think the Lord allows evil people to oppress innocent people? Name some creative ways the Lord has turned adversity into victory in your life or in the lives of others you know.
2. This little captive servant girl – why do you think she was so helpful in telling her mistress about a prophet in Israel who could heal Naaman? What should our attitude be towards our enemies?
3. In verse 5 of 2 Kings chapter 5, Naaman left to go to Israel to seek his healing. Naaman seemed to act solely on the advice of this little girl. Why do you think he did that?
Live It
1. Realize that You Need to be Healed. Many of us have sickness and scars, if not physically, certainly emotionally and spiritually. And all of us without Jesus have the fatal illness of sin. Realizing your need for a Healer is your first step toward Jesus and salvation!
2. Listen to God’s Word. The Lord speaks in many ways, certainly through good and godly people, but especially through His word, the Bible. Listen to him as he leads you towards healing and salvation.
3. Pursue the Word of God! Knowing about the healing prophet in Israel was not enough. Naaman had to act on his knowledge, so he went to the Lord’s prophet. And today knowing about Jesus is not enough. You must believe his world and act on it – receiving Jesus as your Savior and Lord!
Pray It
Heavenly Father, as Naaman came before you with his need, we come before you with hearts open wide, seeking your divine presence and healing touch. You are the ultimate source of all faith and the greatest healer of our souls. We humbly ask for your grace to strengthen our faith and grant us the courage to trust in your loving plan for our lives. We pray for healing, both physical and spiritual. For you are the Great Physician, capable of restoring health and wholeness to our bodies and minds. We also ask for your healing touch to be upon others who are suffering from illness, pain, or injury. May your comforting presence surround them, bringing relief and renewal to their weary souls. Strengthen our faith, O Lord, and bring healing to all who are in need. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.