Naaman was captain of the Syrian army, a war hero.  He was also a leper. His story is told in 2 Kings 5.

In Naaman’s day Syria made frequent border raids against Israel. During one of those raids a young maiden was taken captive who later became Naaman’s wife’s servant. She told her mistress about the prophet Elisha, whom she was sure could cure Naaman's leprosy.

Leprosy was among the most dreaded diseases in Bible times. It begins with brownish-red spots on the skin which turn into hardened nodules, and in time become ulcers. As the disease progresses the muscles and nerves are affected, resulting in deformity and paralysis. Naturally, one with leprosy would seize any opportunity to be healed. Naaman was no exception. Laden with extravagant gifts, he proceeded to Elisha’s house, thinking the prophet would come out to him and ceremoniously cleanse him. Instead Elisha sent a messenger to him, instructing him to go wash in the Jordan seven times.

Naaman reacted angrily. This procedure was illogical and humiliating. He might have returned home without complying had not his servants intervened. They wisely pointed out to him that he was prepared to do some great thing to be healed, so why not do something as simple as dipping himself in a river? Naaman reconsidered, obeyed, and his flesh was restored to a childlike purity.

This account illustrates several important lessons and is an oft-used sermon text. I want to make just one point from it: Naaman’s cleansing resulted from the combined efforts of several people. The Israelite maiden initiated the process by telling him help was available through Elisha. Then Elisha, through a messenger, told Naaman what God required of him. Finally his own servants played the vital role of encouraging him to obey when he resisted. Each of these contributions was equally essential to Naaman’s cleansing. Without any of them he would have gone to his grave a leper.

Those lost in sin need to be washed in Jesus’ blood. Every effort at helping them is valuable; none should be demeaned. And there is something you can do. Some are like Elisha, who can effectively explain what God requires. Perhaps more of us are capable of this phase than we realize. But if you cannot be an Elisha you can be an Israelite maiden, telling others that cleansing is available and putting them in contact with an Elisha. Or maybe you are a good Naaman’s servant, encouraging others to do what they know is right. Barnabas was a “Son of Encouragement”; we need more like him. Some plant, others water. These efforts come together, and God gives the increase (1 Cor. 3:6).

Friend, every effort, whether large or small, counts. Your own conversion was likely the culmination of combined efforts of people who loved your soul. Now do what you can, unto God’s glory.