In accordance with the custom of the times, Naaman now asked Elisha to accept a costly present. But the prophet refused. It was not for him to take payment for a blessing that God had in mercy bestowed. “As the Lord liveth,” he said, “I will receive none.” The Syrian “urged him to take it; but he refused.” 2 Kings 5:16. (PK 250.1) MC VC

“And Naaman said, Shall there not then, I pray thee, be given to thy servant two mules’ burden of earth? for thy servant will henceforth offer neither burnt offering nor sacrifice unto other gods, but unto the Lord. In this thing the Lord pardon thy servant, that when my master goeth into the house of Rimmon to worship there, and he leaneth on my hand, and I bow myself in the house of Rimmon: when I bow down myself in the house of Rimmon, the Lord pardon thy servant in this thing.” 2 Kings 5:17, 18. (PK 250.2) MC VC

“And he said unto him, Go in peace. So he departed from him a little way.” 2 Kings 5:19. (PK 250.3) MC VC

Gehazi, Elisha’s servant, had had opportunity during the years to develop the spirit of self-denial characterizing his master’s lifework. It had been his privilege to become a noble standard-bearer in the army of the Lord. The best gifts of Heaven had long been within his reach; yet, turning from these, he had coveted instead the base alloy of worldly wealth. And now the hidden longings of his avaricious spirit led him to yield to an overmastering temptation. “Behold,” he reasoned within himself, “my master hath spared Naaman this Syrian, in not receiving at his hands that which he brought: but ... I will run after him, and take somewhat of him.” 2 Kings 5:20. And thus it came about that in secrecy “Gehazi followed after Naaman.” 2 Kings 5:21. (PK 250.4) MC VC