Truth About Pride

Published April 15, 2026

2 Kings 5

Wednesday, April 15, 2026 l Claressa Barrett

Are you willing to do what it takes? On the surface, most of us would say, “Yes, of course.” But are we really? What if what God asks of us doesn’t make sense? That’s the question that came to mind as I read the story of Naaman in 2 Kings 5—and it’s one we’re forced to answer throughout Scripture.

Naaman was the commander of the Syrian army—an enemy of Israel. He had a skin disease and learned from a young Israelite girl that a prophet in Israel could heal him. So he went to find Elisha. But instead of a dramatic moment, Elisha told him to wash seven times in the Jordan River. Naaman went away angry.

He expected something greater, something that made more sense to him.

And if he had to wash in a river, there were better options back home. But his servants urged him to reconsider. So, reluctantly, he obeyed—and his skin was made new.

But the greater miracle wasn’t just physical healing. Naaman himself was changed. He came to know the God of Israel. God pursued His enemy, met him in his need, and made him new. Still, it required Naaman to do something that challenged his pride.

What if God is asking you to do something hard? Maybe to give something up. Maybe it’s not even a “big” thing—but it presses right against your pride, something you would never choose on your own. And what if you remembered that He has already given up everything for you?

There is no limit to how far He will go to pursue and redeem you.

That price has already been paid through Jesus. Will you trust Him enough to “bathe in the Jordan”? To surrender what you cling to for comfort? To forgive or serve those who have hurt you? Or will pride keep you from experiencing what only obedience can bring?

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