In the book of 2 Kings, the story of Elisha’s servant, Gehazi, who witnessed a miraculous healing but let his greed lead him astray.
Naaman was the commander of the Syrian army and a great man in the eyes of his king. Despite his success, he suffered from leprosy, a dreadful and incurable disease at that time. Naaman heard about Elisha, the prophet in Israel, through a captive maid in his household who told him about Elisha’s power to heal.
Naaman went to Israel, bringing lavish gifts to offer in exchange for his healing. When he arrived, Elisha did something unexpected: he didn’t meet Naaman in person but sent a messenger to tell him to wash in the Jordan River seven times to be healed. Initially, Naaman was furious and felt insulted, but his servants persuaded him to follow Elisha’s instructions. When Naaman obeyed, his flesh was restored, and he was healed completely. This miracle demonstrated the power of God and the importance of humble obedience.
Naaman, overjoyed and grateful, offered Elisha the gifts he had brought. But Elisha refused to accept any reward. Why? Elisha wanted to show that the power to heal came from God alone and not from any human or material wealth. Accepting gifts for the miracle could have implied that God’s power could be bought, which Elisha firmly rejected.
However, Elisha’s servant, Gehazi, saw an opportunity for personal gain. After Naaman departed, Gehazi ran after him, lying that Elisha had changed his mind and requested some of the gifts. Naaman, generous and thankful, gave Gehazi silver and garments.
Gehazi thought he had secured a better future for himself with these treasures. But when he returned, Elisha confronted him, knowing through divine insight what Gehazi had done. As a punishment for his deceit and greed, the leprosy that had been on Naaman was transferred to Gehazi and his descendants forever. Gehazi got more than he asked for—he got riches temporarily but paid for it with a lifelong curse.
This story teaches us that our actions have consequences, and sometimes we get more than we bargain for. Gehazi thought he could gain wealth through dishonesty, but he ended up with a terrible disease instead. It’s a stark reminder to be honest and content, trusting in God’s provision.
Compare Gehazi’s story with that of Solomon. When God appeared to Solomon in a dream and asked what he wanted, Solomon asked for wisdom to govern God’s people. God was pleased with this request because Solomon didn’t ask for long life, riches, or the death of his enemies. Because Solomon’s request was selfless and aimed at serving others, God not only gave him wisdom but also granted him riches and honor.
Gehazi asked for wealth and got leprosy. Solomon asked for wisdom and got wealth along with it. The difference lies in their motives and the integrity of their hearts. When we ask for things in life, it’s important to consider our motives and be aware that what we desire may come with unforeseen consequences.
The story of Gehazi warns us about the dangers of greed and deceit. It encourages us to be honest and content, knowing that God’s blessings come in His time and way. As we seek God’s will in our lives, we can trust that He will provide what we need without the harmful consequences that come from selfish desires.
