Forgotten Heroes – Part 2

Destiny Church sermons

May 19, 2024

• 2 Kings 5:1
• 2 Kings 5:9-10
• 2 Kings 5:11
• 2 Kings 5:12
• 2 Kings 5:13
• 2 Kings 5:14

Pastor Gene’s sermon is part of a series called “Forgotten Heroes,” focusing on lesser-known people from the Bible to draw spiritual truths from their stories. Today’s message is about Naaman, a commander who had leprosy, highlighting the contrast between his public success and private struggle. Pastor Gene relates this to our lives, where we often hide our shame and struggles behind our accomplishments.

He emphasizes that pride can handicap us, using Naaman’s initial refusal to follow Elisha’s instructions as an example. Naaman’s pride and preferences initially hindered his healing, as he wanted a more dignified and private solution. However, through the intervention of his servants, who reasoned with him, Naaman humbled himself and followed the prophet’s directions, resulting in his miraculous healing.

Pastor Gene makes several key points:

1. Pride handicaps us: Naaman’s pride almost prevented his healing.
2. Preferences hinder us: We often want things our way, but God’s way is what brings healing.
3. God uses people to humble us: Naaman’s servants helped him see past his pride.
4. Healing can be a process: Naaman had to dip in the Jordan River seven times, illustrating that sometimes healing takes time and persistence.

He concludes by encouraging the congregation to make a move towards God, using the acronym MOVE:

• Make a decision to be faithful.
• Open the Bible for guidance.
• Verify that God is speaking to you.
• Expect God to move in your life.

Pastor Gene calls for humility and obedience to God’s instructions, highlighting that God loves us as we are and wants to heal and restore us. He encourages the congregation to continue in their faith journey, praising God even amidst struggles, and preparing for God’s movement in their lives.