Whose River?
“Go and wash in the Jordan seven times, and your flesh shall be restored to you” … But Naaman became furious … “Are not … the rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? Could I not wash in them and be clean?”—2 Kings 5:10–12
As commander of Syria’s armies, Naaman knew how to lead troops. He expected obedience and wanted others to do things his way. Facing leprosy, he displayed the same attitude. He wanted to do things his way.
When he heard Elisha’s proposal as a solution, Naaman was surprised and even angry. It seemed like a simple command: “Go and wash in the Jordan seven times.” Elisha promised that if he obeyed, he would be healed.
But Naaman became furious because of the choice of rivers. He felt the rivers of Damascus were better than those in Israel. He wanted to choose the river. He wanted a river that was familiar to him and part of his tradition.
Eventually, Naaman obeyed. When he did, he was healed. This was because he did things God’s way and washed in His river.
Like Naaman, we can want to choose the rivers for our own lives. We find it easier to follow our traditions or lifestyles and do things that seem more familiar.
But God wants us to learn to do things His way. This can be challenging. We may resist Him and insist on doing things that make sense to us. But the real key to blessing is obedience and trust. Realize that He pours out blessings on those who obey Him unconditionally and walk by faith!
Reflection Question: What happens when you insist on doing things your way?
Prayer
Father, forgive me for doing things my way. Help me obey You. I want to follow You. Thank You. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Today's Bible Reading
2 Kings 5
Prayer
Father, forgive me for doing things my way. Help me obey You. I want to follow You. Thank You. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Today's Bible Reading
2 Kings 5
Holiness
How seriously do you take the holiness of God? When Uzzah touched the ark, Israel learned that…
0 Comments3 Minutes
God’s Assignment
What has God actually assigned you to do? David appointed faithful musicians to serve—and their…
0 Comments3 Minutes
Partnership
Does your part in God’s work ever feel small? Paul called Titus his partner and fellow worker—a…
0 Comments3 Minutes
Booths
How do you keep from taking God’s provision for granted? The Feast of Booths—Sukkot—had Israel…
0 Comments3 Minutes
More Steps to Strengthen Your Walk With Christ
Inspiration Today Newsletter
Supercharge your faith and ignite your spirit. Find hope in God’s word. Receive your Inspiration Today newsletter now!
Christian Articles
Find articles to strengthen your walk and grow your faith. We have a wide range of topics and authors for you.
Submit A Prayer Request
We are here for you. Simply click on the button below to reach us by form, email or phone. Together we will lift our hearts and voices with you in prayer.