Resting On God's Grace

Naomi went with her husband and two sons “to sojourn in the country of Moab” (Ruth 1:1), because there was a famine in their land. While she was there, her two sons, Mahlon and Chilion, married Moabite women. But tragedy struck when Elimelech, Naomi's husband, died, followed by the death of her two sons. After learning that the famine was over, she decided to return to Judah. She tried to convince her two daughters in law, Orpah and Ruth, to each go back to their own “mother's house” (Ruth 1:8). But “Ruth clave unto her” (Ruth 1:14). When they arrived, the people recognized Naomi.

But she told them to call her Mara (Ruth 1:20), because she was still carrying her bitter past! Instead of wallowing in her misery (Ecc 8:6), Naomi made plans for Ruth to marry Boaz, a wealthy “near kinsman” (v. 12). Although healing takes time and we can surely learn from our past, we also need to remember that life is out in front of us, not behind us. God always tells His people to “go forward” (Ex 14:15), neither to look back (Lk 9:62), nor “turn aside” (Deut 5:32)! We need to cast all our cares upon Jesus (1 Pet 5:7), and move on with our lives. When Naomi sought “rest” for Ruth, she was talking about her marriage to Boaz, who would love her and provide for her.

Such a relationship would be a relief and healing from her painful past. Her life would now have true joy and hope for the future (Rom 15:3). It is impossible to follow and stay close to God (Jn 15:4), without a real relationship with Jesus (Rom 10:9), and faithfully obeying His word (Jn 14:21). But if we ever fail and fall into sin (1 Jn 2:1), we can be certain that the Holy Spirit dwelling in us (Rom 8:11), shall convict us to return to God (Mal 3:7), so we can rest upon His grace! God bless you!

- Pastor Melito Barrera