Fruit of Faith

Failure is a weed that sprouts from unbelief, Choking out the more desirable fruit of faith. Marvel at how God weeds out unbelief: The little girl's confidence in God's power, The prophet's reliance on the supernatural. Watch Ben-Hadad rely on his own natural ability, Dismissing the little girl's and Naaman's hope. "I will use the wealth stolen from the Israelites, By the brilliant raids of my captain, Naaman, And start more conflict with the king of Israel!" And the evil one came and snatched away the seed. Jehoram, Israel's king, relies on his own ability, For he has already defected from God in his heart, And dismisses any help from Yahweh's prophet. "I cannot cure this man from his skin disease! Ben-Hadad looks for an excuse to fight me!" And without sufficient root, his belief withered. Marvel at how God's plan unfolds: "There is a prophet in Israel, send him to me! This did not originate in the mere will of man! Do not judge until God's purposes are complete! This will not be just a physical cure!" And God prepares some good soil in Naaman's heart. What is the way of approach to ignorant Naaman? The gods of Naaman will fall in this encounter. God conceals His sovereign control by Design. Naaman's proud spirit judges God's choices, For it is Satan's last-ditch effort to thwart. And sinners try to erect their own standards. Man is not the cure for himself- Expecting cleansing in accord with his dignity. Humiliation and faith pave the way to remedy. "Wash in a river inferior to those of my own?!" Naaman erupts in a boiling rage - ready to curse! And God breaks up the hardness of pride in him. The appeal is simple faith in God's provision. As Naaman obeyed in faith, he was healed- From both physical and spiritual leprosy! "Now I know there is no God except in Israel!" He was changed from self-serving to servant. And the good soil understands and bears fruit. There is no substitute for the Lord, Gehazi. Why put your missionary commission at risk? Ironically, Naaman's leprosy will cling to you! What you would have inherited is forfeited. You have joined the ranks of Eli and Saul. And desire for riches choke the seed, yielding nothing.