Naaman's Maidservant

"And the Syrians had gone out on raids, and had brought back captive a young girl from the land of Israel. She waited on Naaman's wife." 2 Kings 5:2

Her name was not spoken in the scriptures but she was very young when captured and taken to Syria during a time when Israel was constantly invaded by surrounding nations. Although living in a foreign land and serving people who may have killed her family, she demonstrated a sincere desire to serve her master well.

"But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you." (Matt. 5:44)

This Hebrew child had obviously been taught that God's hand was on her life. Though in the midst of a pagan community, she was securely committed to Yahweh as a God of mercy. She was determined to reveal the superiority of Israel's God over the pagan gods of Syria, even in an atmosphere of war and oppression.

She exercised her own simple faith and testified to God's power to heal leprosy, which resulted not only in the saving of her master's life but also in his introduction to the power of the God of Israel. Her persevering testimony led Naaman to let go of his pride and make the decision to put his faith in the God of Israel.

"Bondservants, be obedient to those who are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in sincerity of heart, as to Christ" (Eph. 6:5)

This young lady demonstrated great faith even as a child to remember and obey wholeheartedly God's commands in difficult circumstances. Even though she was a minor character in Israel's history, she became an effective part for one of the most significant miracles in the Old Testament.

May we learn from her young life how to serve others as if serving our Lord. To love those who hate us and pray for those who seek to tear us down. When we keep our minds on Christ, fully trusting in Him, He will see us through and comfort us when we feel defeated.

"Therefore you now have sorrow; but I will see you again and your heart will rejoice, and your joy no one will take from you." (John 16:22)

I love you & He loves you more!

Lord, Build us up strong in our faith and may we walk boldly, holding fast to Your Word. I know that no one can take my joy without me giving it to them first. May I stay true to who I am in You and rejoice in the presence of my enemies. In Jesus' name. Amen.