2 Kings 5:15-27IntroRight before this passage, Naaman was a soldier who was healed of leprosy. He had expected the King of Israel to come out, call upon the Lord, and heal him of his leprosy. Instead, a prophet of Israel simply told Naaman to wash himself seven times in the Jordan River. Naaman was angry because he specifically imagined that someone of great public power (the king) would come out and show a glorious healing; ironically, a prophet told Naaman to wash himself in the river of Israel (Jordan River) that was the least clean out of the rivers of Abana, Pharpar, and Damascus. This passage is following Naaman, who was humbled after obeying the words of his mere servant, who insisted that he obey the prophet. Prophet Elisha refuses to accept any gifts from Naaman, but Gehazi, servant of Elisha, wanted to take advantage of this situation and accept what he could from Naaman by lying to him. NOTES ON THE TEXT22 “Everything is all right,” Gehazi answered. “My master sent me to say, ‘Two young men from the company of the prophets have just come to me from the hill country of Ephraim, Please give the them a talent of silver and two sets of clothing.’” Gehazi lies twice in this passage and this is the first time. He knows the Naaman is feeling guilty and sorry about doubting and being angry at Elisha the prophet. Gehazi lies and takes advantage of those emotions by requesting gifts, or an “award” for performing healing. Simply put, that’s not cool. God moves without expecting anything in return, so when God moves through us, we shouldn’t expect anything in return either because we are already rich in the Kingdom of God. It’s also simply wrong to take advantage of someone who has experienced a work of God.25 When he went in and stood before his master, Elisha asked him, “Where have you been, Gehazi?”Your servant didn’t go anywhere,” Gehazi answered. Elisha already knew the answer. A lot of times, when spiritual authority asks us questions (when they possibly already know the answer), it is because it gives the person the opportunity to tell the truth. We have to remember that even though we make mistakes, there is no shame or condemnation in the Kingdom of God. No pastor or leader wants to bring shame to one another, especially to students. This was the second time Gehazi has lied and rejected the opportunity to come into the light. God will show grace and give opportunities for people like Gehazi, but if it keeps harming God’s people, those opportunities will diminish unfortunately. APPLICATION- Elisha walked away from temptation; Gehazi fell into the temptation by lingering in that place. - Set yourself up for success! If there are specific struggles, make changes in your life to avoid falling into the same temptations. You’ll immediately see a difference in your spiritual life.CONCLUSION

Do not try to exploit the move of God
God is a god of second chances
Don’t put yourself into places where you’ll be tempted!

DEVOCASTS

How Heavy is Grace?

God's Imminent Victory

Set Yourself Up

BLESSINGS ON BLESSINGS ... but wait...

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