So, he went down and dipped himself in the Jordan seven times, as the man of God had told him, and his flesh was restored and became clean like that of a young boy. – (2 Kings 5:14)
One of the most unique healings in the Old Testament is that of Naaman, the captain of the Syrian army. Second Kings chapter 5 describes Naaman as “a mighty man of valor, but a leper” (see v. 1 NKJV).
Through his young Israelite slave girl, Naaman learned of the prophet Elisha who could heal Naaman’s leprous body. The captain lost no time in getting to Israel and the prophet Elisha, who sent word to Naaman to dip in the Jordan River seven times. After struggling with his pride, Naaman obeyed and was healed on the seventh dip.
Naaman was a cruel enemy of Israel. He was an idolater. Yet God desired to bring Naaman to repentance through His marvelous grace. Because of his healing, Naaman repented and accepted the God of Israel.
Through the compassion of one little slave girl, Naaman was no longer a leper, and neither was he an idolater. Naaman went home with healing on the inside as well as healing on the outside. What a life-changing experience!
Can you imagine the joy of Naaman’s little maid when she saw her master again? Her compassion and love for this man touches my heart. She had probably been captured and taken from her home to be this man’s slave, and yet she cared for him.
Many times, in the New Testament we read that Jesus looked upon the people with compassion before He healed them. Compassion mixed with faith is a powerful combination!
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for showing Your grace to each and every one of us. Help us to have compassion on others like Jesus did, for compassion mixed with faith is how we bring people into Your Kingdom!
