Chapter 5 of 2 Kings tells one of the most well-known stories about the prophet Elisha. At the center stands Naaman, a respected commander from Aram who, despite his power, suffers from an incurable disease. The narrative combines human pride, unexpected hope, and the surprising simplicity of divine help. It shows that God’s grace knows no boundaries — neither national nor social.

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🧵 Commentary

Naaman is a successful man. As commander of the Aramean king’s army, he enjoys honor and influence. Yet behind his shining façade he carries a heavy burden: he has leprosy. Illness breaks through his status and makes clear that even power offers no ultimate security.

In Naaman’s household lives a young Israelite girl who had been taken captive to Aram. She — seemingly powerless — becomes the voice of hope. She speaks of a prophet in Samaria who could bring healing. The king of Aram reacts immediately, writes a letter to the king of Israel, and sends Naaman with rich gifts.

When the king of Israel reads the letter, he panics. He believes this is merely a pretext for war, for he knows he himself cannot heal. Elisha hears of it and tells them to send Naaman to him, so that it may be known that there is a prophet in Israel.

But the encounter unfolds very differently than expected. Naaman arrives with horses and chariots and surely anticipates a solemn ceremony. Instead, Elisha simply sends a messenger with a basic instruction: wash seven times in the Jordan, and he will be clean. Naaman is offended. He had expected something grand — words, gestures, perhaps a spectacular act. The simple rivers of his homeland seem better to him than the unimpressive Jordan. Hurt and angry, he wants to leave.

Only his servants speak reason to him. If the prophet had asked something difficult, would he not have done it? Why not something simple? These words bring Naaman to reflection. Finally, he goes down into the Jordan. At the seventh immersion, the miracle happens: his skin becomes healthy like that of a young boy.

Now not only his body changes, but also his heart. He returns to Elisha, acknowledges the God of Israel, and offers gifts — which Elisha refuses. Naaman asks for soil from Israel so that he may serve this God alone in the future, even while fulfilling certain duties in his homeland. His request reveals an honest, seeking faith.

Yet the story ends with contrast. Gehazi, Elisha’s servant, cannot forget the refused gifts. Secretly he runs after Naaman, lies, and demands silver and clothing. When he returns, Elisha confronts him. The greed does not remain without consequence: Naaman’s disease falls upon Gehazi.

Thus the chapter ends with two paths — the path of humility that brings healing, and the path of greed that brings loss.

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🧺 Summary

2 Kings 5 tells how the Aramean commander Naaman receives healing from leprosy through the prophet Elisha after humbly washing in the Jordan. While Naaman recognizes God’s greatness, Gehazi falls into judgment through greed and deception.

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🔦 Message for us today

The story shows that God’s ways are often simpler than we expect. Pride can prevent us from accepting help, while humility opens doors. It also reminds us that God’s grace reaches people beyond our usual boundaries.

At the same time, the chapter warns against a faith shaped by gain or self-interest. True discipleship seeks not personal advantage, but God’s glory.

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📝 Reflection

Are there areas where my pride keeps me from taking simple steps of trust?
And where am I invited to pass on God’s grace without selfish motives?

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📆 22 – 28 February 2026

📚 BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS

📖 Weekly Reading from the Spirit of Prophecy

📘 Ellen White | Patriarchs and Prophets

🔥 Chapter 64 : David a Fugitive

✨ Hunted by the king, sustained by God

🌐 Read online here

📘 Blog 7 : 🌄 Hunted – but Guided

God’s plan remains firm

📍 Introduction

David is a fugitive; betrayal and death surround him. Yet God’s plan stands firm.

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🧵 Commentary

Saul hunts; David flees. Yet again and again God intervenes.

Messengers are overwhelmed. Saul himself prophesies. Angels protect.

It appears paradoxical: the persecutor stands under God’s Spirit — and yet his heart remains unchanged.

David, on the other hand, is pursued — and grows inwardly.

He learns that his calling is not confirmed by human approval, but by God’s faithfulness.

Even in the shadow of death, the promise remains: “My grace shall not depart from you.”

God’s plan for David and for Israel is not thwarted by envy, hatred, or intrigue.

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🧺 Summary

Despite persecution, God’s guidance over David remains. His path is difficult, but secure in God’s hand.

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🔦 Message for us today

No power in the world can nullify God’s plan for a life that trusts in Him.

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📝 Reflection

Do I trust that God’s promises are stronger than my circumstances?