Naaman Gets Well

A proud soldier learns that God’s simple way is best of all, and he is gently made well.

Naaman was a brave army commander in shining armor, and everyone looked up to him. But under that armor were sore, achy spots on his skin that would not get better, no matter what he tried. A little servant girl from the land of Israel helped Naaman’s wife. “God’s prophet back home can help him!” she said softly.

So Naaman climbed onto his horse and traveled far down the dusty road to find the prophet Elisha. His heart hoped and wondered the whole long way. When he arrived, Elisha did not even come outside. Instead he sent a quiet message: “Go and wash in the Jordan River seven times.”

Naaman frowned and crossed his arms. “That river is so plain and muddy!” he grumbled, for he had wanted something grand. He turned to leave, feeling cross and proud. But his gentle helpers came close and asked, “Why not just try it? It is such a small, easy thing to do.”

Naaman took a deep breath and stepped down into the cool water. He dipped low beneath the river — one, two, three… The water splashed softly around him as he went under again and again, all the way to seven times.

When he rose up the last time, the water ran off his shoulders, and his skin was healthy and new — soft and clean as a little child’s! Joy filled his whole heart. “Now I know your God is the true God,” he said, smiling, thankful that God had loved him and made him well.

Thank You, God, for healing and for helping me. Help me to trust Your way, even when it seems simple.