Neville Turley

“Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”  Luke 12:15 (NIV)

Gehazi, is not a name that springs to mind when one thinks of persons in the Bible.  Gehazi is an example of what one should not be. 

As the man servant of Elisha, he was in an influential position. Unfortunately he was greedy, corrupt and abused his position. He though Elisha was wrong not to accept any payment from Naaman for healing his leprosy. He decided to chase after Naaman and secure something for himself.

Naaman was on his way home when he saw Gehazi running after his chariot.  He stopped and got down to greet him. “Is everything alright?” he asked. (2 Kings 5:21)

Gehazi replied that all was well and that his master had sent him.  Then he glibly spun a story about two young sons of prophets who had unexpectedly arrived at Elisha and needed a talent of silver and two sets of clothes. Naaman was only too happy to assist Elisha. “By all means, take two talents of silver.” said Naaman. (2 Kings 5:23)

Naaman had the two talents of silver secured in two bags with the two sets of clothes. He gave it to two of his servants to accompany Gehazi back home. When they approached his home, Gehazi dismissed the two servants and taking the two bags, hid them.

Then he went to greet his master who asked him where he had been. “Nowhere” lied Gehazi. However, God had revealed the truth to Elisha.  Elisha cursed Gehazi “Naaman’s leprosy will cling to you and your descendants forever.’ Then Gehazi went from Elisha’s presence and he was leprous, as white as snow.” (2 Kings 5:21)

There are regular media reports of how greed has led to a person’s downfall.  Unfortunately it is not only the guilty party that suffers but the victim of his greed often face ruin.  His own family too may also bear the consequences of his sin.  We need to follow the advice of our Saviour and be on guard against all kinds of greed.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, it is human nature to want what others have. May the Holy Spirit enable us to resist the sin of greed. For Jesus sake Amen