A “Legend In His Own Mind”

In the character of Naaman, we see a man who was truly a “legend in his own mind.” Many are misunderstanding and rejecting God’s Word today because they desire to please self instead of pleasing God (2 Kings 5:11-12).

The Attitude Of Naaman

Let’s note some other possible reasons why Naaman was a “legend in his own mind.” From the beginning of this story in 2 Kings 5:1, we see at least two possible reasons that could have played a factor resulting in the arrogant attitude of Naaman: (1) He was a “great” and “honorable” man in the eyes of the Syrian king (Ben-hadad – 2 Kings 5:1; cf. 2 Kings 6:24); (2) He was a “mighty man in valor” (2 Kings 5:1). It is possible that Naaman simply thought of himself as “great” and “mighty.” As a result, he would have displayed an attitude of self-importance resulting in his arrogant disposition.