“Seven Ducks in a Muddy Pond” was the title one preacher gave to the story of Naaman in the Bible. Remember, he’s the one who was told by Elisha to dip in the Jordan River seven times to be cured of his leprosy.

Well, there’s the story in a nutshell! But let’s take it apart and see what we can glean from this fascinating drama.

We find this account in II Kings 5. A side note… I acquired the New Testament Expositor’s Bible Commentary books last year and now my sweet husband gave me the Old Testament set for Christmas, so of course, I must make use of them! 

Naaman appears to be a typical “commander of the army.” He’s decisive, courageous, probably arrogant, and demands respect. He serves the King of Aram. Now if you’re an Israelite, them’s fightin’ words. The two groups were often battling each other, but at this particular time they are in a peace treaty of sorts.  

The people of Aram are in no way God-fearing people. Oh, they have their gods, but they do not worship the One God, the God of the Universe, Jehovah God. The writer seems to feel that in spite of this, God has given victory in some battles to Naaman. Let’s jump right into the story.

Now Naaman was the commander of the army of the king of Aram. He was a great man in the sight of his master and highly regarded, because through him the Lord had given victory to Aram. He was a valiant soldier, but he had leprosy. II Kings 5:1

Oops! Bad news for this mighty one. Isn’t it interesting how poor health suddenly puts us on a level playing field. Our magnificent deeds are dwarfed by the immediate issue at hand.

It so happened that during the time when Aram and Israel were in battle, Naaman had acquired an Israelite girl to be a servant to his wife. Sadly, in spite of the fact that she plays a pivotal role in this story, we don’t know her name, but this brave little soul speaks up for the needs of Naaman. She shares her faith in God through the prophet Elisha.

She said to her mistress, “If only my master would see the prophet who is in Samaria! He would cure him of his leprosy.” II Kings 5:3

It always amazes me how God uses even “the least of these” if they are willing. Would there a be a way He might want to use us today? Will He put you in a spot where you could say just what someone needs to hear?

Even though this young girl is in captivity,  she has found the courage to speak out. Will this desperate, commanding general heed the advice of a foreign slave girl? Next week!

~ Joyce ~