myself, He will surely come out to me, and stand and call on the name
of the Lord his God, and wave his hand over the place, and heal the
leprosy'." 2 Kings 5:11
Naaman had earned the love and respect of his king. Yet for all his
strength and might, Naaman suffered from the dreaded disease of
leprosy. When his king learned of a Hebrew prophet named Elisha who
might be able to help, he sent Naaman off with great expectations.
But rather than an impressive meeting with the prophet, Naaman
received instructions by a messenger to wash seven times in the Jordan
River. This enraged Naaman and he angrily refused to follow the
prescription. He struggled with pride, faulty expectations, and
inflexibility-much like many leaders today.
Yet as a strong leader, Naaman had surrounded himself with
individuals who could speak up and disagree with him, and his inner
circle provided good counsel. Naaman changed his mind, followed the
prophet's directives, and was healed.
Leaders who remain teachable receive ongoing blessings.
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