This week for my personal devotions I’ve been reading about Abraham (born Abram). Throughout his life, Abraham was constantly torn between following and trusting in God vs. following the ways of the world. It’s a struggle we can really identify with!
"But those who drink the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life." John 4:14
During my current visit to Thailand with brother Tshepo, we’ve had the chance to have brief devotionals together each morning. The topic of Naaman, commander of the Syrian king’s army, found in 2 Kings 5 came up one morning. We were discussing how he had to really humble himself and dip into the not-so-appealing Jordan River seven times to receive healing. We reflected on how hard it would have been for a person with such high position to tame their pride and go through with the instructions he received.
I then remembered a sermon I had heard previously which focused on how a lowly Jewish servant girl played quite a role in directing Naaman to the prophet of God, Elisha. Not much was said about this young girl apart from the fact that she was a captive and served Naaman’s wife. When she made her suggestion, her words were not taken lightly; her master took her seriously. It shows what sort of character and integrity the girl was known for in that household.
Throughout the Bible, it is evident that the way God’s people lived their lives and interacted with others really ministered to those who had limited knowledge of the living God. From Joseph in Egypt to Daniel in Babylon, their lifestyle and integrity made it possible to reach those who would have been very hard to get through to.
Christ also showed us through His life how to reach out to others in whichever sphere of influence we are placed. “Christ’s method alone will give true success in reaching the people. The Saviour mingled with men as one who desired their good. He showed His sympathy for them, ministered to their needs, and won their confidence. Then He bade them, “Follow Me.”” (Ministry of Healing, p 143).
May we, like the young Israelite girl, fulfil our purpose even when we are placed in unfavorable situations in our life and bring glory to God above.
