A servant's heart--to the core! Well we're back to our "Amazing Women of the Bible" series today (Monday) and now we've moved on to Ruth. We're actually going to spend the entire week in Ruth instead of just one day as we'll be doing that same thing on the Back to the Bible program. So make sure and check that out this week.
Ruth 1 really sets the stage for the story of Ruth. As I read I could totally get into what had happened and the circumstances facing Ruth and her mother-in-law, Naomi. But in just one chapter Ruth's "amazingness" is already shining through. She was loving, incredibly devoted and, here's the big one for me, more concerned with others than herself. All desirable qualities.
So the obvious question for me seemed to be, how can we be more like Ruth? How can we make sure that we're tuned into others and their needs, and then, how we should respond? Tami W.
P.S. We have a brand new study out on the Books of Ruth and Esther. Click the study image to find out more about it.
I was struck by the idea that despite her bitterness Ruth really saw something in Naomi that she wanted and she invoked the name of God in her pledge to Naomi. I don't know the cultural background of the Moabites so I'm not sure if this was because these were the strongest words she could use or because Naomi had been faithful to share who the Lord is and was with her daughters in law. It shows that we can be faithful to God even when we are bitter and depressed about things in our life. To me it reiterates the principal that even when you are angry with God you need to keep talking to him to get things worked out. Giving Him the cold shoulder will not be of any benefit to you! Can I trust Him enough to know that He wants my best based on he good things He has done and that He has a plan that is bigger than what I can see?
For me awareness is the key. Life is very busy in these end of times and society is focused on their own needs. Take time to look at the circumstances surrounding people in your life. Your family, friends, colleagues, neighbours, etc., and look for unique and individual ways to help each of them. Not necessarily all at once but I try to focus on one person at a time and usually through prayer God will guide me.
Enjoy your day!
A story from the book, RUTH!
"DO YOU KNOW WHO I AM?"
It is the middle of the night and I, a woman,
have come to your threshing floor.
Hide me, MY LORD, under the folds of your garment,
so that know one will know.
Let me lay at your feet till morning
for you are my "Kinsman Redeemer."
I haven't spoken that we are related and
I will leave before anyone can be reconized.
Thank you Lord for you FAVOR;
you have brought me before your wittnesses and
you have allowed me to "sit down" with you.
This writing is deep. Read the book and see where you are
in it at this time!
I love Linda's comment about unique and individual ways to help people. I don't always remember, but I try to say something encouraging to as many people as I can - even if it's just "thank you so much" or "have a great day." One thing that strikes me too, is that serving others isn't always convenient, but it wasn't convenient for Jesus either when He was here on earth.
The main characteristic that stands out to me about Ruth is FAITHFULNESS - faithfulness to Naomi (her oath reminds me of marriage vows - "till we are parted by death"), and faithfulness to her oath. It's a great encouragement to be faithful to my family and to others in my life.
The cultural aspect of Ruth's story is interesting, and holds its own message of God's acceptance of all people, regardless of race or culture. The Moabites were traditional enemies of Israel. Yet out of the Moabites, God chose a woman to be part of Christ's genealogy.
Many times we all forget to help serve others. We are so focused on our own little boxed world. I like doing random acts of kindness and try to remember to do it frequently.
Ruth had love for Naomi and chose to not be selfish. She gave Naomi a wonderful gift.... love and friendship.
Many times we all may be bitter regarding the circumstances of our lives. I try to remember that everything happens for a reason and God has the big blueprint of our lives while we can see just the day we are in.
Both Naomi & Ruth cared deeply for each other. Naomi didn't want to make Ruth feel obligated to stay with her. Ruth knew that Naomi needed to be cared for since her family was gone. Naomi's Godly life style, character and/or mannerisms must have made a true impression on Ruth in order for her to want to stay with Naomi instead of joining her own family. (As mentioned by Danette above.)The relationship grew & it was because God blessed their relationship. Put God in the core of all of our relationships, let's see what loving Godly success we would have.
I am new to blogging so I hope I'm doing this right. Most people I know don't believe the way I do. I believe in giving all I have that I honestly don't need to others. I believe that there should not be homeless people in this country because there are plenty of people who could make sure of it. Maybe I feel this way because I've been homeless or because I'm poor now, but I'd rather have Jesus than money.