How many times do we find
ourselves so committed and devoted to a decision that we care not
what the future holds? Such was the case with Ruth when she was
minded to continue in her relationship with Naomi her mother-in-law.
Ruth had faced the death of her husband. She had watched as her
sister-in-law lost her husband as well, and now as Naomi desired to
return home, Ruth was abandoned by her sister-in-law Orpah. Although
Naomi attempted to convince Ruth to stay in her homeland, Ruth would
have nothing of it. She was determined to continue with Naomi even
until death no matter what the consequences of her decision would be.
Today we observe Naomi's response to Ruth's commitment in chapter one
and verse eighteen where we read:
When she saw that she
was steadfastly minded to go with her, then she left speaking unto
her.
A
steadfast decision has no parallel, and Naomi could see this was
Ruth's resolve. “When she saw that she was steadfastly minded to
go with her;” Ruth's evidence was compelling, and the reaction
of Ruth to the option of returning to her home was obvious to Naomi
now. Many people make rash proclamations, however when it comes time
to fulfill their declarations, they tend to be absent. Both
daughters-in-law had made the claim that they would stay with Naomi,
yet when the time came for the fulfillment of that decision, Orpah
left, and Ruth stayed. Naomi saw Ruth's purpose of heart, and
determined that Ruth was going to fulfill her promises.
Once
Naomi was satisfied that Ruth would indeed stay with her, “then
she left speaking unto her.” There was nothing more for Naomi
to say. She knew Ruth would return to her home with her, and there
was no need for further convincing or struggle. Once we can determine
that a person is indeed resolved in their minds to make a choice, we
can as Naomi cease further discussion. Once the decision is made,
action follows. There was nothing left for Naomi to do other than to
begin the travel with her now committed daughter-in-law Ruth.
How many
times have we truly committed to a decision in the manner of Ruth?
Are there people who are convinced that we are so purposed in our
resolve that they have left off speaking to us? Are there issues in
our lives that deserve such devotion and resolve? If so, perhaps
today is another opportunity to solidify our decision, and if not,
maybe we should examine ourselves to determine whether we have
anything at all to which we are totally committed. One thing is
certain, as we watch this story unfold we realize that God in Heaven
is presiding over all the events, and His resolve is manifested in
every day decisions of ordinary people who believe themselves simply
living life with purpose.
Next
time we shall observe the reaction from Naomi's people when she and
Ruth return to her home, so read ahead, and we shall join together
then.
Until
tomorrow...there is more...
Look
for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From
Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites,
www.amazon.com
; www.barnesandnobles.com
; download
to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore
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