“When she heard in Moab that the LORD had come to the aid of his people by providing food for them, Naomi and her daughters-in-law prepared to return home from there.”
Ruth 1:6
Naomi is one of the main characters in the book of Ruth. She’d gone with her husband and two sons from their home in Bethlehem to the country of Moab to live. Years later her husband died, and in time her sons died, too, leaving her with her Moabite daughters-in-law. She now was the decision maker and wanted to go home. Initially, both daughters-in-law intended to accompany her, but in the end, Ruth alone went.
Despite the joyful reception in Bethlehem, Naomi was overcome with bitterness. The Lord had afflicted her, and she wore her emotions so all could see them. Eventually, the kindness of God chased her down. Her joy was restored beyond what she would have hoped for (see Ruth 4:13-22).
Have you dwelt in the “country of bitterness,” grieving what is lost and can never be restored? Know that you are held fast there in the gracious and loving hand of your Savior who knows your heartache. Our great Redeemer who “is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine” (Ephesians 3:20) will redeem our misery in His perfect timing.
Despite the joyful reception in Bethlehem, Naomi was overcome with bitterness. The Lord had afflicted her, and she wore her emotions so all could see them. Eventually, the kindness of God chased her down. Her joy was restored beyond what she would have hoped for (see Ruth 4:13-22).
Have you dwelt in the “country of bitterness,” grieving what is lost and can never be restored? Know that you are held fast there in the gracious and loving hand of your Savior who knows your heartache. Our great Redeemer who “is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine” (Ephesians 3:20) will redeem our misery in His perfect timing.
Scripture Focus
Ruth 1:6-22
Insight
If you have strayed away, make the choice to return to Jesus, the Giver of Life.
Bible In A Year
- Jeremiah 47-48
- Psalm 125
- 2 Corinthians 4-5