RPG Adults
PROVIDENCE, DECISIONS AND CIRCUMSTANCES (4)
LORD’S DAY, JULY 7
Ruth 1:11-18
Luke 9:57-62
“Then said Jesus unto the twelve,
Will ye also go away?”
PROVIDENCE, DECISIONS AND CIRCUMSTANCES (4)
Naomi’s appeal to the example of Orpah was met by a pledge of commitment and faithfulness from Ruth. Ruth’s decision was not governed by temporal reason. It was also not subject to the influence either of the words of Naomi or the example of Orpah.
“…Intreat me not to leave thee…” (Ruth 1:16). Ruth’s plea was made after arguments had been given and reason appealed to, and after examples were cited and she had been urged to follow it. Her plea presented her wish and heart’s desire. It was a desire that showed us that in the decisions of life, though reason and the mind may be appealed to, though common practice may be cited, though temporal welfare considered, and future outcomes and profit taken into account, the spiritual wellbeing and eternal value of the decisions must be the motive that drives and informs our choices. Like the disciples of Christ, when faced with difficult choices, we must consider, not only temporary relief and comfort, but rather put more weight on eternal and spiritual felicity. Like them, our deciding factor must be: “Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God” (John 6:68-69).
“…she saw that she was stedfastly minded to go with her…” (Ruth 1:18). In this we ought to consider the testimony of Naomi’s life! Ruth committed herself to Naomi and Naomi’s God till death, and by an oath, called down upon herself God’s wrath and judgment if she failed to keep her vow. Many who are married and introduced to a different faith by marriage tend to retain some aspects of their former beliefs. Others even actively try to influence and bring their faith with them into their new home. This is why the biblical command and principle is that of Biblical Separation. But from Ruth’s statement of commitment, it is hard not to ponder on what example Naomi had set through the circumstances of life that informed and influenced Ruth’s choice!
THOUGHT: Do the things that happen to me further the Gospel?
PRAYER: Father, keep me near the cross, and make Thyself known through all circumstances in my life.