By John O’Malley
“Wherefore she went forth out of the place where she was, and her two daughters in law with her; and they went on the way to return unto the land of Judah” (Ruth 1:7).
Sometimes, in Scripture, we are prone to bypass the biographical, historical, and geographical details in a verse in order to get to the bigger elements of the story. Our focus verse would be easy to overlook, but this verse makes me consider three things. It helps me consider Naomi’s trials, her testimony, and her trip.
Consider with me Naomi’s trials. “Wherefore she went forth out of the place where she was.The child of God would do well to note that no matter how far you have gone from God’s will, you can come home!This thought should be both precious and pleasant to all readers. Moab had been a chain around the family of Elimelech, and the day Naomi walked out, that chain was broken. Your trials are never permanent; they end when you start your journey home.
Then contemplate Naomi’s testimony. “…and her two daughters in law with her.”Naomi, though in Moab, must have lived a life of some spiritual value. She maintained enough of a testimony before her daughters-in-law that one of them converted to the true God. Her testimony was evident through the disappointments of Moab and the death of her husband and sons. Ruth saw enough light and truth in Naomi to come to the faith.
Now look at Naomi’s trip. “…they went on the way to return unto the land of Judah.”Three women begin the journey home to Bethlehem-judah. The sixty-seven miles would have been long, arduous, and heavy-hearted. However, though the conditions were adverse, there was comfort in knowing they were headed home. Reader, never allow your trials to affect your testimony; you see, you are headed home!
Think about it...