Obedience Over Pride: What Naaman’s Healing in 2 Kings 5 Teaches Us About Doing Things God’s Way
Welcome back to the Bible in a Year journey. Today, we’re exploring 2 Kings chapters 5 and 6, focusing on the unforgettable story of Naaman, a Syrian military commander whose healing from leprosy came not through status or spectacle—but through simple, surrendered obedience. This story offers a powerful truth: when pride stands in the way, we risk missing what God has for us.
Summary of 2 Kings 5–6: Miracles and Messages
In these chapters, we witness the ongoing ministry of the prophet Elisha, marked by miraculous events and divine protection.
In chapter 5, Naaman—a respected general—seeks healing from leprosy. Elisha gives him a simple command: wash seven times in the Jordan River. Initially offended by the simplicity, Naaman resists. But when he humbles himself and obeys, he is miraculously healed.
In chapter 6, we see more displays of God’s power: the recovery of a lost axe head and Elisha’s supernatural protection from enemy armies.
But it’s Naaman’s story that holds a mirror up to our own spiritual lives.
Pride, Expectations, and Obedience
Naaman expected healing to look impressive. He wanted a dramatic encounter fitting his rank and power. Instead, he was met with a messenger and a command that seemed beneath him.
“Go and wash in the Jordan seven times…” —2 Kings 5:10
Naaman’s reaction? Offense. Pride. Resistance. But God wasn’t trying to impress Naaman—He was calling him to humility and obedience. The very moment Naaman laid down his pride and followed God’s instructions, he experienced healing.
This story asks us: Are we missing what God wants to do because His way doesn’t match our expectations?
Doing Things God’s Way
Naaman’s story is a lesson for all of us. God often calls us to simple steps of obedience—but our pride, desire for control, or preconceived ideas of how things “should” look can delay our breakthrough. Whether it’s forgiving someone, taking a step of faith, or obeying God in a small area of life, His instructions lead to freedom and healing. But only when we follow His way—not ours.
Reflection and Application
Take a moment and reflect:
Is there an area in your life where God has spoken clearly, but pride or fear is holding you back?
Are you waiting for something more dramatic, more customized to your preferences, instead of obeying the simple instruction God has already given?
Naaman reminds us that God’s way isn’t always flashy—but it’s always powerful. And obedience is the door to breakthrough.
Final Encouragement: Let Go and Obey
Whatever you’re facing today, choose to let go of your expectations. Let go of control. And trust God’s simple instructions. He may be asking you to dip into something humbling, quiet, or unfamiliar—but on the other side of your obedience is the healing, clarity, and transformation you’ve been seeking.
Want to Go Deeper?
Follow along with the full Bible in a Year Reading Plan and explore more stories like this each week.
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