Gentle strength ∙∙

Gentle strength ∙∙

Let your gentleness be evident to all. – Philippians 4:5

Isaiah 40:10-11

 10 Yes, the Sovereign LORD is coming in power. He will rule with a mighty arm. See, he brings his reward with him as he comes.

 11 He will feed his flock like a shepherd. He will carry the lambs in his arms, holding them close to his heart. He will gently lead those that are with young.

During World War II, as the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands intensified, Anne Frank, along with her family, sought refuge in a concealed section of her father’s office building in Amsterdam. This secret annex, hidden behind a movable bookcase, became their sanctuary from the persecution and the imminent danger they faced as Jewish people in Nazi-occupied territory.

For two years, they lived in hiding, relying on the help of a few trusted individuals for survival. However, in 1944, their hiding place was betrayed, and the Gestapo arrested them. Anne and her sister Margot were later transferred to the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, where they tragically died just weeks before the camp was liberated.

Despite the unimaginable hardships she faced, Anne documented her experiences and innermost thoughts in her diary, which was discovered after the war. This diary, known as The Diary of a Young Girl, has since become one of the most powerful and enduring testaments to the human spirit in the face of adversity. In it, Anne wrote, “In the long run, the sharpest weapon of all is a kind and gentle spirit.”

A kind and quiet spirit, as depicted in the Bible, signifies an inner disposition characterized by humility, tranquility, and unwavering trust in the Father. It encompasses traits such as gentleness, peacefulness, patience, and a soothing, sweet temperament, reflecting a heart that remains undisturbed and unruffled. This spirit epitomizes a deep connection to unwavering faith and dependence on God, enabling one to remain composed and compassionate even in the face of adversity. It is an outward expression of inner beauty.

In Isaiah 40, the Father is portrayed as a powerful yet compassionate Shepherd. This imagery captures His dual nature – He rules with a strong arm, exemplifying His immense power while also displaying tenderness and kindness. He carries His lambs close to His heart and guides them with gentle care.

Sadly, many of the children of the King are often mired in their soulish, fleshly, worldly attitudes and viewpoints. Thus, the concept of an all-powerful King characterized by gentleness and kindness seems incongruous.

REFLECT & PRAY

As we serve the King, sometimes our most significant strength reveals a heart of gentleness to others (Dave Branon).

Father, I know I can be very rigid. It is too easy to demand my rights and seek retaliation when I am hurt or wounded by others. Please develop in me the quality of gentleness.

INSIGHT

John 1:14 So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son.

The King of Kings and Lord of lords became a mere, mortal human being. He experienced the worst that humanity could throw at Him: injustice, insult, rejection, and betrayal, coupled with emotional and physical abuse and so much more. He was the predicted Suffering Servant of Isaiah 53. It was as though the Suffering Servant jumped out of the Old Testament prophetic scrolls and came to life.

The Lord Jesus Christ faced it all in gentle strength. He did not retaliate when He was insulted, nor threaten revenge when He suffered (1 Peter 2:23). The natural response of people when abused or threatened is to retaliate, to try to get even, to hurt in return for being hurt, to seek revenge. Instead, the Lord Jesus Christ entrusted Himself into the Father’s hands.

The Greek word translated as “entrusted,” “trusted,” and “committed” is paradidomi. Paradidomicomes from the Greek words para, meaning “to the side of, over to,” and didomi, meaning “to give.” It conveys the idea of delivering over or handing over control, relinquishing control to another. For example, he left his case in the hands of God.

1 Peter 2:21-25

 21 For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps.

 22 He never sinned, nor ever deceived anyone.

 23 He did not retaliate when he was insulted nor threaten revenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly.

 24 He personally carried our sins in his body on the cross so that we can be dead to sin and live for what is right. By his wounds, you are healed.

 25 Once, you were like sheep who wandered away. But now you have turned to your Shepherd, the Guardian of your souls.

Gentleness represents the ultimate response of strength, naturally flowing from our close, intimate relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. Displaying gentleness reflects the courage of our beliefs, as it is driven and empowered by the Holy Spirit within us.

United with Christ, gentleness becomes our way of life and action. As the Father shapes us into His likeness, our gentleness becomes increasingly evident in our interactions with others. The Greek word praus, translated as “gentle,” “conveys  “consideration,” “meekness,” and “humility.” Gentleness denotes a “mild and friendly disposition,” which accommodates the weaknesses and failures of others without being overly self-important (BDAG). Gentleness is neither insistent on one’s own rights nor pushy, assertive, or demanding its own way (Grudem). It avoids rigid correctness and retaliation, remaining meek and mild in response to insults and wrongs. Gentleness is the high road most often taken by the spiritually mature.

Gentleness is not optional; it is a required expectation for every child of the King. Philippians 4:5 instructs, “Let your gentle spirit be known to all men.” Jesus Christ modeled and exemplified these qualities as the Good Shepherd, guiding us to embrace His loving care and, in turn, shepherd others.

Gentleness and kindness allow us to make a point without making an enemy (Our Daily Bread, March 8, 2019).

Matthew 11:28-30

 28 Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.”

 29 “Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

 30 “For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”

John 21:17 “Do you love me?” . . . “Feed my sheep.”

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© Dr. H 2024

Hannah’s Song ∙

Hannah’s Song ∙

For all the earth is the LORD’s, and he has set the world in order. – 1 Samuel 2:8

1 Samuel 2:1-10

 1 Then Hannah prayed: My heart rejoices in the LORD! The LORD has made me strong. Now I have an answer for my enemies; I rejoice because you rescued me.

 2 No one is holy like the LORD! There is no one besides you; there is no Rock

 6 The LORD gives both death and life; he brings some down to the grave but raises others up.

 7 The LORD makes some poor and others rich; he brings some down and lifts others up.

 10 Those who fight against the LORD will be shattered. He thunders against them from heaven; the LORD judges throughout the earth. He gives power to his king; he increases the strength of his anointed one.

Dogs are renowned for their loyalty and companionship, expressing gratitude and affection in unique ways despite their inability to speak. They communicate emotions through body language, such as a wagging tail, joyful panting, relaxed postures, snuggling, and licking their owner’s face.

Beyond these physical signs, dogs demonstrate thankfulness through actions like bringing a toy to their owner or shadowing them from room to room, showcasing their love and appreciation. Each dog has its distinct methods of expressing affection and gratitude, which they do with enthusiasm.

Thankfulness is a joyful and uplifting emotion. In a similar vein, the Father has provided humans with a way to express gratitude through prayer.

In 1 Samuel 2:1-10, known as the “Song of Hannah,” Hannah, the mother of Samuel, sings a song of thanksgiving and praise. She expresses her gratitude to the Father for answering her prayers by granting her a son, whom she dedicates to His service. Hannah acknowledges the Father’s power and grace, giving thanks for her blessings. Her song is a profound expression of faith and gratitude.

Hannah begins by proclaiming that the Lord is her rock, fortress, and savior, and she fears nothing with the Lord by her side. In 1 Samuel 2:3-5, she contrasts the Lord’s power and wisdom with the weakness and folly, noting how He brings down the mighty and elevates the humble.

Hannah gets very personal and declares that the Father brings joy to the barren woman, making her a joyful mother. She acknowledges that the Lord judges the earth and empowers those He chooses.

In 1 Samuel 2:9-10, Hannah concludes her song by proclaiming that the Lord protects His faithful ones while bringing judgment upon the wicked. She emphasizes that the Father’s reach is never too short to save, and He is the ultimate judge of the earth.

This passage highlights Hannah’s profound faith in God and her thankfulness for His blessings. She acknowledges that God governs the world and supports those who place their trust in Him, highlighting His unmatched power and might. Her song exemplifies the devotion and trust in God celebrated in the Bible, encouraging others to cultivate similar faith and confidence in Him.

Overall, this passage beautifully expresses faith and gratitude, with Hannah recognizing the Lord’s power and grace and giving thanks for the blessings she has received.

REFLECT & PRAY

A life without thankfulness lacks love and passion. Hope without gratitude misses the subtleties of life. Faith, when not paired with thankfulness, loses its strength and resilience. Every virtue, when separated from gratitude, is hindered and struggles on the spiritual path.

Father, thank You for being sovereign. You are gracious and all-powerful. You intervene in the space-time continuum to achieve Your purpose and will. May Your will be done on earth as it is.

INSIGHT

Hannah’s inability to have children brought deep sorrow, especially in ancient Israel, where a woman’s identity and self-worth were closely tied to bearing children. Her barrenness subjected her to relentless teasing and mockery, making her the target of harsh bullying year after year.

1 Samuel 1:6-7

 6 So Peninnah would taunt Hannah and make fun of her because the LORD had kept her from having children.

 7 Year after year, it was the same – Peninnah would taunt Hannah as they went to the Tabernacle. Each time, Hannah would be reduced to tears and would not even eat.

Throughout history, countless women have endured similar hardships and heartaches as Hannah, who serves as a model for overcoming such adversity. She remained steadfast in her faith, trusting the Father and pouring out her heart in tearful prayers. The Father heard her cries and graciously answered her prayers.

1 Samuel 2:8 The foundations of the earth belong to the LORD, and he has placed the world on them.

In ancient times, many cultures, including Israel, believed pillars supported the earth. This notion reflects the Father’s ultimate control over the world and its inhabitants. He shapes history and provides hope and comfort to those who trust in Him.

The Hebrew term matsuq is translated as “pillars.” Matsuq refers to an upright pillar, a tall, vertical, cylindrical structure. It is used for support. Hence, the earth itself. It is reasonable to translate “The LORD is the owner of the foundations on which the world sits” or, as CEV has translated the last two lines together, “You set the world on foundations, and they belong to you” (UBS).

Psalms 24:1 The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him.

“Since he created the world and maintains it, God has the power and the right to intervene in its affairs and rearrange the fortunes of men according to his sovereign will” (James E. Smith). As the designer, creator, and owner of the world, the Father has sovereignty over it. What happens on planet Earth is under His watchful care.

This comforting fact is the centerpiece of Hannah’s faith and confidence. She poured out her heart and humbly requested the Father’s intervention in her life. She was overjoyed and grateful when the Father answered her prayer and blessed her with the birth of Samuel. With a thankful heart, she sang praises to Him, acknowledging His power to rearrange the fortunes of people and His gracious provision in her life.

Hannah demonstrates in-depth knowledge and comprehension of the Father’s character, lovingkindness, and mighty works. She knows what God is like as a person.

That is the foundation of her faith and song.

“We can smile at our enemies when we remember that we serve a God who takes great delight in saving and redeeming us. When we rejoice in the Lord, and not merely in His blessings, we find a joy known nowhere else” (Stanley).

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© Dr. H 2024

The first will be last ∙∙

The first will be last ∙∙

Many who are first will be last. – Matthew 19:30

Matthew 19:23-30

 23 Then Jesus said to his disciples, I tell you the truth, it is very hard for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.

 24 I’ll say it again – it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of God!

 25 The disciples were astounded. Then who in the world can be saved? they asked.

 26 Jesus looked at them intently and said, Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But with God, everything is possible.

 27 Then Peter said to him, We’ve given up everything to follow you. What will we get?

 28 Jesus replied I assure you that when the world is made new, and the Son of Man sits upon his glorious throne, you who have been my followers will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

 29 And everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or property, for my sake, will receive a hundred times as much in return and will inherit eternal life.

 30 But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be the greatest then.

We are driven by a strong personal drive to feel good about ourselves and to seek meaning and significance in our lives. As we grow, we often look up to those closest to us and those we admire, adopting their values and aspirations almost like catching a cold.

In worldly terms, we know the rules. What we want, we strive to get. What really matters most? Is it success, possessions, or status? These factors contribute to our sense of satisfaction, but there’s a catch. They can offer a measure of comfort, yet potentially, they block us from achieving what is of lasting importance.

Jesus taught that it is difficult for the wealthy to enter the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 19:23). But why is this so?

When we become self-reliant and achieve worldly success, the question arises: why would we feel the need for God? If our confidence lies in our own identity, achievements, or possessions, why would we need to put our trust in God?

This struggle isn’t unique to the wealthy; it applies equally to the strong, intelligent, influential, or politically connected. They tend to rely on their own resources; pride keeps them from placing their trust in God and His resources (Stanley).

REFLECT & PRAY

In the kingdom of God, the Father has turned things upside down. Losing is winning; winning is losing.

Father, I recognize that I have caught my values and priorities from the world. Encourage and strengthen me to abandon my earthly, soulish values in exchange for Your heavenly values.

INSIGHT

In the kingdom of God, things seem backward. They are turned upside down from what we expected. Jesus stated, “Many who are first will be last, and the last first” (Matthew 19:30).

We gain by losing. Jim Elliot wrote: “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep, to gain that which he cannot lose.”

Matthew 10:39 If you cling to your life, you will lose it, but if you give up your life for me, you will find it.

Human DNA seems to harbor a natural sense of competitiveness. As individuals, we are driven to seek the best for ourselves and work tirelessly to achieve it. However, this inclination is contrary to the dream that the Father has for us and is more in line with the values and priorities of the world rather than those of the kingdom of God.

The Last Supper was a momentous occasion that took place the evening before the crucifixion of the Lord Jesus Christ. During this pivotal time, the disciples were present, yet they did not fully comprehend the gravity of what was to unfold the following day. Despite having devoted the last 3 1/2 years of their lives to the Lord Jesus Christ, they were not fully aware that He was on the verge of enduring a gruesome, brutal, and horrid death to atone for the sins of the world.

Their attention was fixated entirely on themselves and their own status and importance, rendering them indifferent to the profound significance of that moment for the Lord Jesus Christ. They were so occupied with themselves that they were oblivious to Him. They totally failed to recognize the magnitude of the situation surrounding Him.

Luke 22:24-26

 24 Then they began to argue among themselves about who would be the greatest among them.

 25 Jesus told them, In this world the kings and great men lord it over their people . . .

 26 But among you, it will be different. Those who are the greatest among you should take the lowest rank, and the leader should be like a servant.

In a poignant and emotionally charged moment in the gospel story, the disciples became embroiled in a heated discussion about status and privilege, all while in the very shadow of the cross. The seating arrangement at Jewish feasts adhered to a strict protocol, with the table set in a U-shape, leaving one side open. The host occupied the central position at the top, with the most esteemed guest to his right and the second most esteemed to his left, and this alternating pattern continued around the table.

Entangled in their own worldly ambitions, the disciples became ensnared in an argument about their respective positions, holding fast to the vision of a kingdom based on worldly principles. However, the Lord Jesus Christ imparted a stark lesson, drawing a sharp contrast between the values of His kingdom and those of the world. Worldly kings were evaluated based on the power and authority they wielded.

The Greek word for “dispute,” philoneikia, occurring only here in the NT, is a hapax legomenon. It is a compound word literally meaning love of victory or desire for glory. Here, it has the sense of rivalry, contention, or insidiousness in a pejorative sense. It has the general sense of readiness to quarrel, eagerness to dispute, inclination to strife, love of strife, and eagerness to contend. “When you are interested in promoting yourself, it doesn’t take much to start an argument” (Wiersbe).

Lord Jesus Christ interrupts their vanity with a warning. “Jesus told them bluntly that the standards of his kingdom were not the standards of this world” (Barclay). He explains that they were thinking like the unsaved Gentiles and not like children of the King. The Romans, in particular, vied for honors and did all they could, legally and illegally, to win promotion and recognition, but they are not examples for us to follow. “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves benefactors” (Luke 22:25).

True greatness means to be like Jesus, and that means being a servant to others. A servant does not argue over who is the greatest because he knows that he is the least, and he accepts this from the hand of a Father. Since all children of the King are to be servants, there is no reason for us to compete with one another for honors and recognition.

In the Middle Eastern context, rulers were frequently referred to as Euergetes, a title meaning “Benefactor” in Greek. Nevertheless, Jesus profoundly redefined the concept of greatness, asserting that in His kingdom, it is not the king who holds this title but the servant who embodies it in its truest sense (Barclay).

Sadly, fallen humanity chases after recognition and prominence. As we look within, we may recognize, to our chagrin, that we probably have done the same thing.

To become great in God’s kingdom, you must become the servant of all.

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© Dr. H 2024

Our guardian angels ∙∙

Our guardian angels ∙∙

For he will order his angels to protect you in all you do. – Psalms 91:11

Matthew 18:10 Beware that you don’t look down on any of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven, their angels are always in the presence of my heavenly Father.

Hebrews 1:14 Therefore, angels are only servants, ministering spirits sent to care for people who will inherit salvation.

Guardian Angels, a non-profit organization founded by Carol Borden in 2010 and located in Williston, FL, is on a mission to empower individuals with disabilities, particularly veterans suffering from combat-related injuries. They achieve this by harnessing the therapeutic influence of service dogs, inspiring hope, fostering independence, and enhancing the quality of life for those they serve.

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs are dedicated to rescuing, nurturing, and training top-tier service dogs. Applicants in need undergo a meticulous selection process, ensuring that only the best match is made. Once chosen, recipients receive the necessary support and resources to thrive with their service dog.

Each service dog is thoughtfully paired with a recipient to ensure the best possible match, regardless of the type of disability. Guardian Angels has successfully linked over 200 dogs with deserving recipients.

In the intricate tapestry of biblical stories, angels emerge as captivating and essential figures. Although the Bible doesn’t specifically mention “guardian angels,” their existence is seamlessly embedded in its narratives and teachings. Angels are portrayed as both protectors and messengers throughout the scriptures. As protectors, they act as advocates of God’s will, shielding people from harm. As messengers, they deliver God’s directives, exemplified by Gabriel’s announcements to Mary and Zechariah in the Gospel of Luke.

Guardian angels in these stories highlight God’s active role and intervention in the world. They embody His presence and protection, serving as powerful reminders of the Father’s constant proximity. Their appearances affirm the enduring bond between the Father and His people, providing comfort and hope to the children of the King.

Guardian angels bring good news (Judges 13:3, Luke 2:8-15), issue warnings of danger (Genesis 19:15), offer protection from danger (Daniel 3:28; 6:22), provide guidance (Exodus 14:19), nurture (Genesis 21:14-20; 1 Kings 19:4-7), or instruct and impart wisdom (Acts 7:38; Galatians 3:19) (Baker Encyclopedia of the Bible).

The Father appoints these angels to guard individuals (particularly children and children of the King), groups, or nations (Daniel 10:5-21).

Though their actions might be unseen, God tasks His angels with our care, bringing His message, grace, and protection. We may never recognize in this life how often an angel has safeguarded us from harm or guided us to success. They are part of the Father’s perfect provision, and all praise belongs to Him, not the angels (Stanley).

Psalms 91:11 assures us, “For he will order his angels to protect you in all you do.”

The Father appoints angels to protect and watch over His own. They are primarily behind the scenes, akin to Secret Service agents that protect Presidents of the United States. They are all around yet invisible to us most of the time. Occasionally, the Father allows people to see them (Numbers 22:31, 2 Kings 6:17, Luke 2:1). Sometimes, they take bodily form (Matthew 28:5; Hebrews 13:2). But these occurrences are infrequent, the exception rather than the rule.

The heavenly Father uses angels to care for little children.

Matthew 18:10 underscores, “Beware that you don’t look down on any of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven, their angels are always in the presence of my heavenly Father.”

Each child is appointed a guardian angel at birth. They watch over us right from the start. This notion can be both incredibly reassuring and perhaps simultaneously a bit unsettling.

These heavenly guardians extend their protection to all of us, the needy children of the King. Constantly in the Father’s presence, they act as our personal emissaries, awaiting His directives. Ever prepared, they stand ready to fulfill their heavenly assignments.

Hebrews 1:14 Are they not all ministering spirits sent out to render service for the sake of those who will inherit salvation?

REFLECT & PRAY

Angels vigilantly watch over humanity, serving as the Father’s envoys and protectors.

Father, thank You for the strength and tools You provide to fulfill Your will and accomplish the assignments You have set before us. You alone deserve all praise and glory.

INSIGHT

The Hebrew word, which is translated as “angel,” is malak, which means messenger. The name of the prophet “Malachi” translates to “my messenger.” The Greek equivalent is aggelos, which also signifies messenger, envoy, or emissary. It is the source for the English term “angel.”.

Scripture identifies two angels by name: Gabriel and Michael. Angels are often depicted as a celestial army with ranks. Michael is an archangel, while Gabriel acts as the Father’s emissary, delivering messages. Despite this, the commander-in-chief is the Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies.

Psalms 24:10 Who is the King of Glory? The LORD of Heaven’s Armies – he is the King of Glory.

I often find myself in trouble, whether it’s small or large. I imagine my guardian angel manages the minor issues, and for greater challenges, I envision more powerful angels stepping in (Daniel 10:13).

Despite my frequent misadventures that likely demand extra vigilance, true security doesn’t rest with these created beings but with the Father. He deploys bigger guns and assigns an angel of a higher rank with more power and authority. Sometimes, I suppose myself to be a real bother, quite a handful, perhaps causing angels to work overtime. I can almost hear one exclaim, “Did you see that? I can’t believe he did that again!”  

Guardian angels vividly demonstrate God’s nurturing presence and care. As both protectors and messengers, they fulfill God’s promise to watch over us. Through grand acts or subtle guidance, these angels inspire trust in God’s unseen yet constant protection.

Ultimately, our wisdom, guidance, power, and security come from the Spirit of God and the Lord Jesus Christ. While guardian angels play significant roles, their importance pales compared to the supreme authority of the Lord Jesus Christ, who reigns at the right hand of Majesty (Hebrews 1:3).

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© Dr. H 2024

Our expiration date ∙∙

Our expiration date ∙∙

John grew up and became strong in spirit. He lived in the wilderness until he began his public ministry to Israel. – Luke 1:80

1 Corinthians 15:54-55

 54 Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die, this Scripture will be fulfilled: “Death is swallowed up in victory.”

 55 “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?”

As we grow older, most of our physical abilities and strengths tend to decline. However, there is one notable exception: the human spirit, which has the potential to grow stronger over time. This was true for John the Baptist; he grew ever stronger in his spirit (Luke 1:80).

Satchel Paige wisely asked, “How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you was?”

The wiser mind mourns less for what age takes away than what it leaves behind (Wordsworth).

When you are eighty years old, you have learned almost everything. The problem is being able to remember it (George Burns).

Typically, our “long-term memory” remains intact, but as Burns humorously pointed out, the challenge for some older adults is recalling the information they’ve already acquired. For many of us, the real issue might be something as simple as forgetting where we parked the car. An old adage reminds us, “It’s okay to forget your keys; it’s not okay to forget what the keys are for.”

Too often, we let age define us when, instead, we should let our identity shape how we perceive our age. As people age, particularly those who choose not to dwell on loss, their thoughts naturally shift to what truly matters. By focusing on what’s important, they can maximize their mental and spiritual potential.

One of the inevitable sorrows of aging is losing dear friends and family. We also begin to reflect on our own eventual departure to our eternal home. However, the apostle Paul offers guidance on facing these challenges.

While we grieve the loss of loved ones, our sorrow is not permanent. As children of the King, our hope extends beyond this world. Death is not the final chapter; resurrection is. All children of the King have a sure hope of resurrection and eternity with Him. In our later years, the Father may even introduce new friends and loved ones into our lives.

Paul provides a roadmap for dealing with these concerns. Paul did not fear death and eagerly anticipated being with the Father, yet he understood that he still had important work to accomplish.

Philippians 1:21-25

 21 For me, living means living for Christ and dying is even better.

 22 But I can do more fruitful work for Christ if I live. So, I really don’t know which is better.

 23 I’m torn between two desires: I long to go and be with Christ, which would be far better for me.

 24 But for your sake, it is better that I continue to live.

 25 Knowing this, I am convinced that I will remain alive so I can continue to help all of you grow and experience the joy of your faith.

Being strong in spirit and embracing our purpose, we can face aging with hope and wisdom.

REFLECT & PRAY

Each of us has an expiration date. The Father has a plan and purpose for every child of the King. When our time of service is finished, the Father calls us home. We live to serve at His pleasure.

Father, I am thankful for the beloved friends you’ve taken away and for those new ones you’ve brought into my life. My life and destiny are securely in Your hands.

INSIGHT

During the era of the Judges, around 1200 BC to 1020 BC, a severe famine struck the land of Judah, prompting Elimelech and his wife, Naomi, along with their two sons, to seek refuge in Moab. Sadly, Elimelech passed away, and Naomi’s sons married Moabite women, Ruth and Orpah (fun fact: Oprah Winfrey’s name was meant to be Orpah, but the name on her birth certificate was misspelled). Then, tragedy struck again as Naomi’s sons also died, creating a scenario that could rival any soap opera.

Faced with such heartache, Naomi decided to return to Judah. She advised her daughters-in-law to remain in Moab and remarry. Orpah took her advice, but Ruth, in a display of remarkable loyalty and devotion, chose to stay with Naomi. Ruth’s pledge of loyalty and dedication is delightful and charming and has resonated through the ages. Ruth’s words are among the most memorable in all of Scripture. Few utterances in the Bible match her speech for sheer poetic beauty and extraordinary courage and spirituality (Block).

Ruth 1:16-17

 16 But Ruth replied, “Don’t ask me to leave you and turn back. Wherever you go, I will go; wherever you live, I will live. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God.

 17 Wherever you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. May the LORD punish me severely if I allow anything but death to separate us!”

Ruth 1:20-21

 20 “Don’t call me Naomi,” she responded. “Instead, call me Mara, for the Almighty, has made life very bitter for me.”

 21 “I went away full, but the LORD has brought me home empty. Why call me Naomi when the LORD has caused me to suffer, and the Almighty has sent such tragedy upon me?”

Naomi was overwhelmed with bitterness and regret, feeling as though life had drained her completely. Ruth 1:20-21 captures her despair:

Yet unbeknownst to Naomi, her story was far from over. It had only begun; great chapters lie ahead for the childless widow. The journey leads her to Bethlehem, a name that hints at what is to come. It is an old-fashioned love story with a twist. Ruth meets Boaz, who falls in love with her. They marry and have a son named Obed. Obed became the father of Jesse, and Jesse became the father of King David.

Naomi finds herself blessed with a new family. Her story shifts from sorrow to joy. The Father orchestrated Ruth’s entrance into Naomi’s life, bringing love and loyalty at just the right time to begin the restoration process. The Father provides Naomi with generous compensation and removes her bitterness. Naomi, once a childless widow, becomes the grandmother of Obed and the great-great-grandmother of King David.

Ultimately, however, godly loyalty tends to pay big dividends. True loyalty is demanding, requiring patience and a willingness to face challenges. Loyal individuals adjust their lives to support those they serve, often at a personal cost. Ruth exemplified this by leaving her own family to be at Naomi’s side.

The Father recognized Ruth’s unwavering loyalty and blessed her with a loving husband, a cherished son, and the honor of being part of the lineage of Jesus Christ (Stanley).

Continue to grow in spirit and serve at His pleasure. Only He knows the end of your days on earth.

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© Dr. H 2024