Pulpit To Pew

GEHAZI’S GREED
By:Rev. Arnel C. Tan

“…….As surely as the LORD lives, I will chase after him and get something from him. And so Gehazi set off after him. 2 Kings 5:1b

Though all kinds of greed are the same in substance but they are not the same in presentation. Gehazi’s greed is an uncommon one, it’s hidden or clothed in good intention. Yet the deception of Gehazi’s greed has ruined the very foundation and fiber of his faith and his conviction. A long time loyal servant of the Prophet Elisha ended his ministry being a lepper. While Naaman got rid of the gold, Gehazi took hold of it and along with it the curse of abundance. Gehazi’s greed is a “noble” one like an old testament Robin Hood, greedy for a good purpose?

Let’s dig deeper. As a close friend of Elisha Gehazi is aware of the many struggles within the inner circle of the ministry that perhaps include how they must have lack material resources to keep the work. His greed has overtaken his faith. Gehazi is not only exposed to the realities of needs but also is privileged to see the wonder of God’s provision. His greed led him away from faith to manipulation using the name of Elisha. “The end justifies the means” might be popular saying but sometimes can be a tool for rationalization instead of obedience to God.

Being over concern and over protective to our leader, to our kids or friends is greed. This is not easily notice or quickly addressed because it stands out in false kind of nobility compared to other manifestations of greed. It’s not for me, it’s for the good of my boss and our ministry, no wonder this kind of greed can dare invoke the name of God “as the LORD lives” surely I will go after him says Gehazi. Let us submit ourselves to the scrutiny of the Holy Spirit and in fervent prayer ask God to expose our greed clothed in good intention. When there is over protection, when there is control, when there is lying there is greed! Lord deliver us from greed.