Ruth 1:1–16 ‘They married Moabite women, one named Orpah and the other Ruth. After they had lived there about ten years, both Mahlon and Kilion also died, and Naomi was left without her two sons and her husband.’ (vv4–5)
This is a classic ‘grim tale to start and wonderful ending to finish’ kind of story. It begins with a famine and real pain with the death of three husbands (Naomi’s husband and her two sons, who were married to Moabite women).
Naomi’s daughter-in-law Ruth, chooses to stick with Naomi, who is part of the people of God.
‘Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.’ (v16).
This one decision of Ruth’s would lead her to being written into the purposes of God. As a Moabite (traditional enemies of Israel) she is grafted into God’s people.
The story demonstrates the wonderful way in which individuals who follow God can have an influence on others to the point that they are prepared to stick with them even if alternative prospects may seem brighter.
Many would have distanced themselves from a woman who could have been reminder of the loss of their husband. But something about Naomi’s faith was contagious.
It’s also a reminder of how God works in and through loss if those involved will look to Him as a guide and look for the good in desperate times.
God is looking for our faith to permeate our whole lives as a message that others want to be with us and the God who we follow.
It may be that such individuals have been a significant part of your coming to faith or continuing in faith? Why not follow their example?!
A Prayer To Make:
Lord, help me to exude Your love and grace so that others may taste and see that you are good. Amen.
An Action To Take:
Thank God for the Naomis in your life, whose faith has been contagious.
Scripture To Consider:
Deut. 23:1–8 and 27:14–19; Acts 10:34–43; Eph. 2:11–17
