In 2 Kings 4, we are introduced to Gehazi, the servant of Elisha. The same word used here for servant is used to describe Elisha when he was the servant of Elijah. It implies that Gehazi had an opportunity to learn from Elisha with the potential to be his successor. Chapter four tells the story of the wealthy Shunamite woman who knew Elisha was a “holy man of God” and she fed him as he traveled through her area. Eventually, she asks her husband to provide a room for Elisha on their roof for whenever he needed it. As a thank you, Elisha wanted to know what she would like from him. The woman is content and asked for nothing. Gehazi observed that she had no son. Elisha agrees that giving her a son is a good thing and he told her it would happen. Gehazi had a part in doing good!
The next time Gehazi is mentioned is in 2 Kings 5. Naaman had just returned from cleansing himself in the Jordan, obeying what Elisha had told him to do to cleanse himself from leprosy. As a thank you, Naaman offered gifts of money and clothing to Elisha, who refused to take anything. Why did Elisha take the gifts of the Shunamite woman but not from Naaman? As a true man of God he wanted to avoid the appearance that he was the one who did the miracle of cleansing rather than the God of Israel.
Gehazi had a different idea. In his pride, he ran after Naaman and asked for clothing and silver to give to others in need. Of course, this was an intentional lie. When he returned to Elisha, he continued the lie, saying he had gone nowhere. However, God had revealed the truth to Elisha, and Gehazi was punished for his sins.
“Gehazi’s descendants would likewise suffer because of the seriousness of this failure. Gehazi decided to join the ranks of Eli, Saul, and the kings who disregarded Yahweh, and so forfeited what he could have inherited, namely, the privilege of serving God as Elisha’s successor. Elisha had valued that privilege and had consequently succeeded Elijah (ch. 2).” (Constable Notes)*
Being a servant of God is a precious gift which we must treasure and guard. It is not what we do in service but how we are a witness to the Mighty God we serve.
I often think of this principle when I see churches in turmoil. People within the church fighting with each other. With their pastor. What witness is this to the God they claim to love?
May we learn to be servants who love our Lord and care more about Him than ourselves.
Taking it Further:
Focusing on this story, how should it change your concept of serving God? Have you seen examples, good and bad, in your sphere of service?
