Oct 01 – Is This the Time?

“Is it time to receive money, and to receive clothing, olive groves, vineyards, sheep, oxen, male and female servants?” (2 Kings 5:26)

The prophet Elisha asked Gehazi, “Is this the time?” His question was essentially this: Is this the time to keep adding property and field? Is this the time to accumulate earthly possessions?

Gehazi was the servant of the prophet Elisha. His heart had become filled with the love of money. Instead of following Elisha, receiving a greater measure of the spiritual anointing upon him, and serving the Lord mightily, Gehazi set his heart on acquiring clothing, olive groves, vineyards, livestock, servants, and other earthly possessions.

When Naaman, the commander of the Syrian army, was healed of his leprosy and was returning to his own country, Gehazi began wondering whether he could obtain something from him. Without his master Elisha’s knowledge, he ran after Naaman’s chariot.

When he caught up with Naaman, he said, “My master has sent me, saying, ‘Indeed, just now two young men of the sons of the prophets have come to me from the mountains of Ephraim. Please, take a talent of silver and two changes of garments.’”

Thus, by telling lies and yielding to the love of material possessions, Gehazi betrayed the Lord. Judgment came upon him. Elisha said to Gehazi: “Therefore the leprosy of Naaman shall cling to you and your descendants forever.” (2 Kings 5:27) Immediately, Gehazi became leprous, as white as snow, and went out from Elisha’s presence.

How severe will be the wrath of God against those who fail to use the daytime graciously given by the Lord for the glory of His name, but instead become fascinated for money from overseas, by manipulating accounts, preparing false reports and consumed by the love of material possessions!

The Bible gives us a solemn warning: “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” (1 Timothy 6:10)

There are so many forms of bribery and corruption in our nation today. Even to get a small task accomplished, people often find themselves having to offer a bribe. In their pursuit of money, many take shortcuts. They resort to falsehoods in an attempt to increase their income. But when eternity finally confronts them, they will stand in utter regret and sorrow.

Children of God, set your hearts on eternal things. Use your time wisely and profitably. Invest your time in the things of heaven. Do not allow the pursuit of earthly wealth to rob you of the precious time God has given you to serve Him. When you invest your life in eternal things, you will rejoice and be glad forever.

Verse for further meditation: “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.” (Mark 1:15)