Consequences of bad Decision
2 Kings 5:25 But he went in, and stood before his master. And Elisha said unto him, Whence comest thou, Gehazi? And he said, Thy servant went no whither. 5:26 And he said unto him, Went not mine heart with thee, when the man turned again from his chariot to meet thee? Is it a time to receive money, and to receive garments, and oliveyards, and vineyards, and sheep, and oxen, and menservants, and maidservants? 5:27 The leprosy therefore of Naaman shall cleave unto thee, and unto thy seed for ever. And he went out from his presence a leper as white as snow.
The incident from our scripture text recounts the story of Gehazi, a servant of the prophet Elisha, who made a series of poor decisions that had lasting repercussions. Gehazi's choices serve as a powerful reminder for us to reflect on our own decision-making processes and the impact they can have on our lives.
Gehazi succumbs to the temptation of greed. Naaman, a commander with leprosy, seeks healing from Elisha. After Naaman is healed, he offers gifts to Elisha, but Elisha refuses. Gehazi, however, allows his desire for wealth to cloud his judgment. He chases after Naaman and deceives him into giving gifts, which he then conceals.
Elisha, being a prophet, discerns Gehazi's actions and confronts him with a question: "Is it a time to accept money and garments, olive orchards and vineyards, sheep and oxen, male servants and female servants?" (2 Kings 5:26).
Gehazi's decision to lie and pursue personal gain led to severe consequences. Elisha reveals that Naaman's leprosy would now cling to Gehazi and his descendants forever. The repercussions of one man's misguided choices extended beyond his own life, affecting generations to come.
This narrative illustrates several key lessons for us today. Firstly, it highlights the danger of succumbing to the allure of immediate gratification at the expense of long-term consequences. Gehazi's desire for wealth blinded him to the gravity of his actions.
Secondly, it emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity in our decision-making. Gehazi's attempt to deceive Elisha not only harmed him but also tainted the reputation of the prophet and, by extension, the message of God.
Lastly, the passage underscores the interconnectedness of our decisions with the well-being of those around us, both present and future. Gehazi's descendants bore the burden of his choices, a stark reminder that our actions ripple through time, affecting not only ourselves but also our families and communities.
In conclusion, let us strive to make choices guided by wisdom, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to God's principles.
God bless you.
Prayer key:
1. Lord, thank you for the blessing of your word today in Jesus Christ name.
2. Lord help me to make good decisions in my life in Jesus Christ name.
3. Lord, save me and my generations from the consequences of the decision of my past generation and mine in Jesus Christ name.
4. Thank you Lord for answered prayers in Jesus Christ name. Amen.