Hearing God in Surprising Places
Scripture Reading — 2 Kings 5:1-14
“If only my master would see the prophet who is in Samaria!”
2 Kings 5:3
Naaman was a great general with a terrible problem: leprosy. Though he moved in powerful circles, no one could offer any hope for his condition—except a young slave girl from Israel who understood God’s power and was willing to share where true hope was found. This slave girl shared the good news of God with a leader who was tempted to think he could handle life on his own. Naaman needed to learn from others.
During the past six years, as I have served in media ministry, I’ve learned that spiritual insights can come from surprising places. I’ve often traveled to review our international media work, only to discover that I have so much to learn. I’ve learned about sacrifice from Japanese Christians who have known the pain of broken relationships with family after accepting Christ. I’ve learned about courage from Arabic Christians who face daily threats because of their faith. I’ve learned wisdom from Indonesian believers who integrate their Christian faith into cultures that are hostile to the gospel. I’ve learned from God’s servants everywhere.
What will it take for us to learn from unexpected sources? It will take a spirit of humility. Naaman’s humility almost ran dry when Elisha told him to bathe in the Jordan!
Sacrifice your pride. Today God may wish to teach you a lesson of faith. Be open to being taught from a source you don’t expect.
Lord, we often think we know it all. But you intend new faith lessons for us. Open our eyes. Amen.
About the author — Bob Heerspink
Dr. Robert Heerspink was director of Back to God Ministries International from 2006 until 2011, when he passed away. He had previously pastored several Christian Reformed churches. Bob loved to write and was a frequent contributor to the Today devotional.
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