In the story of Naaman, he was told by the prophet Elisha’s messenger to wash at the Jordan River for seven times. Naaman was a respected commander with leprosy, and was furious with this ridiculous instruction. His servant persuaded him, and he was completed healed after doing so.
WEEK 11 Theme: Obedience When it doesn’t Make Sense
For Naaman, it totally doesn’t make sense to wash himself at the river and for seven times! And he felt disrespected as the prophet Elisha didn’t come to him, but had sent his messenger with the instruction. He refused to follow it, but was persuaded by his servants. It is only by following the instruction that he was healed.
Many times, when God calls us to do something that doesn’t make sense, or it is inconvenient or uncomfortable, we are reluctant to do so. We make excuses, delay or ignore it. Many times, our pride gets in the way – we want to know the plan first so we can feel ready. We find it hard to trust God when His instruction does not make sense to us.
Faith doesn’t grow in comfort – it grows in surrender. Sometimes, the very step we resist is the one that leads to breakthrough, just like in the story of Naaman.
Weekly Intention
Obedience is not about having all the answers. It is about trusting in the One who does. Obedience is trusting in God for His plan – taking a leap of faith – knowing that God orchestrates the people and events according to His mighty plan. His plan always prevails. His plan is perfect.
This week, ponder on God’s “nudges” that is calling you to do something uncomfortable or something that doesn’t make sense. Forget about trying to figure out God’s plan, for you will never be able to do so. It is only in hindsight, that sometimes God reveals why He did what He did, but not always.
Question: Where am I challenged to obey God, even thought it doesn’t make sense now?