“In this matter may the LORD pardon your servant: when my master goes into the house of Rimmon to worship there, leaning on my arm, and I bow myself in the house of Rimmon, when I bow myself in the house of Rimmon, the LORD pardon your servant in this matter.” – 2 Kings 5:18 (Context 2 Kings 5)

My father used to always tell me how to do things and instead of letting me do them the way I thought it should be done, he would just do it his way and hope I learned from watching him. Even though I often went to him for advice, I would get mad when what he had to say did not line up with my way of thinking. Looking back, however, some of the greatest lessons I have ever learned came from trying it my father’s way and realizing he was not only right, but was also looking out for my best interest.

I can remember how I ashamed I was for not trusting my own dad and how proud I felt to have a father who loved me enough to give me the guidance I needed. Now that it is my turn as a father to my two boys, it is my goal to pass along the same love and leadership my dad showed me. I am sure there will be times they will get mad when my guidance does not line up with their logic. But if I am guiding them according to the Word of God as my old man did for me, I will be leading them on the right path.

Naaman, the King of Syria, sought out the council of the respected man of God, Elisha, but was not at all pleased when he sent his servant to greet him and tell him to bath in water he deemed below the standard accustomed to nobility. After the council of one of his servants to follow the advise of Elisha, King Naaman found out the prophet of God was indeed guiding him in the right direction. This revelation led to a change of heart and devotion to follow Elisha’s God and worship him exclusively.

When we live our lives in devotion to God and his will, people notice. Not only do they notice, they will also look to you for advice and guidance. They may not always take your advice, but if your way and worship lines up with God’s commandments, they would be foolish not to.