Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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The Accepting Christ

Shibu Sam Baby
Epiphany MTC, NY

9. "Then Boaz announced to the elders and all the people, “Today you are witnesses that I have bought from Naomi all the property of Elimelek, Kilion and Mahlon."
 


God’s presence in the book of Ruth is felt in the “chance” meeting of Boaz and Ruth. Did the events leading to this marriage all just work out by chance?

1. God notices people of good character.

It seems clear when we studied the events of this book closely that God was taken by the character of this devoted, faithful young widow who was willing to put other's needs before her own. The unseen hand of God was at work to bring all these things to pass, especially when we consider that king David and Jesus Christ Himself descended from this special woman.

We may at times think that God is only watching the really important people of this world, but the story of Ruth tells us otherwise. God is not impressed with our wealth, fame or power. He is most impressed with the quality of our character.

2. All that is good and worthwhile will come to us if we are patient and commit ourselves to doing what is right in the eyes of God.

Ruth was widow, a foreigner in the land of Judea who had to work hard at menial labor to support herself and an aged mother-in-law. Her choice to do the right thing, helping and supporting Naomi instead of just pleasing herself, brought God’s blessings to her. In this day of instant gratification, it is good to be reminded of this timeless lesson about the way to find real happiness and fulfillment. The apostle Paul supported this view when he wrote that God “will repay each person according to what they have done.” To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immorality, he will give eternal life. Romans 2:6-7

Boaz’s redeeming of Ruth is a picture of Christ redeeming us. What a picture of how we come to faith in Christ. We begin with no hope and are rebellious aliens with no part in the kingdom of God. Then as we risk everything by putting our faith in Christ, God saves us, forgives us, rebuild our lives, and gives us blessing that will last through eternity.

We belong to a loving, faithful, and powerful God who has never failed to care and provide for His children. Like Ruth and Boaz, we are called to respond to that divine grace in faithful obedience, in spite of the godless culture in which we live. Are we willing?

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your love, faithfulness and kindness You showed towards us. Help us to imitate You in our relationship with others. In Jesus name. Amen.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
If we are open to follow God, He will use us to achieve His purposes. As He used Naomi, Ruth and Boaz, their offspring continued the family line through which the Messiah came into our world.

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