A MISTAKE: Devotion for Monday May 30, 2016
Text: 2 Kings 5:4 – 6 Memory verse: v 6
Naaman set out for Samaria, carrying with him some luxurious gifts; ten changes of raiment, splendid robes and outer garments for special days and occasions, “festal” gowns (RSV, JB). To this day Damascus is known for its beautiful brocade cloth. To own a garment made of such material would indeed have been a status symbol, and highly valued. A talent of silver contained three thousand shekels. According to Living bible translation, “Naaman started our taking gifts of US$20,000 worth of silver and US$60,000 worth of gold,” (5:5). This calculation gives us a clear view of the kind of luxury gifts Naaman took to Israel. Unfortunately, all those gifts and the letter to King of Israel were mistakes on the part of Naaman because he can’t buy the blessings of God with money.
This is how some of us make grievous mistakes in worshipping God with our wealth and talent. Our gifts are not bribe to God. Salvation and blessings of God are gifts. Some sow seed with the mind of reaping more. It doesn’t work like that because you can’t bribe God with your money, your tithe or your talent. You should give, out of love for God. Naaman and his master wrote to the King of Israel as if the girl told them of a king who heals. Their action and letter show their arrogance. Instead of appealing to the king to urge the prophet in his domain to help, they were compelling the king.
Food for Thought: Our gifts and sacrifices are not bribe to win God’s favour and blessings.
Prayer: Lord God, help me to understand the best way to approach you and to use my gifts in worshipping you.
No comments:
Post a Comment