Being THAT to Others

And Naomi said to her two daughters-in-law, “Go, return each to her mother’s house. The LORD deal kindly with you, as you have dealt with the dead and with me. Ruth 1:8 (New King James Version)

Naomi’s words to her two daughters-in-law are spoken at a time of loss and grief. Death has taken her husband and two sons, leaving her a widow and a financially poor one at that. Emotionally, she is in the throws of depression and bitterness. Spiritually, she is straining at what she perceives to be the hand of God against her. Socially, she is suspicious of the motives of others (as seen in verses 11-13 of this first chapter) . So her words and actions are coming out of much brokenness and bewilderment. Ruth sees that and does not respond adversely to it. A little further reading reveals she has no intention on turning around or walking away. Her love, loyalty, and commitment are astounding.

This biblical principle speaks volumes to me when I am called upon to walk through valleys in which others find themselves. Like myself, they will say and do things that are out of the norm for them. How quick am I to see them through a grid of love rather than judgment? How willing am I to forego misperceptions and pulling away? How persistent am I to let them know I am not going anywhere?

When my flesh rises up and my love, loyalty, and commitment begin to wane, God is faithful to bring to mind two examples for me to follow. First, He gives me the example of Himself. In my weakest moments, when my actions are less than sterling, He does not step away or stop loving me. He instantly begins the process of wooing me back to Himself. He is with me for the long haul and that attentiveness is evident. Second, He reminds me of the individuals who were a “Ruth” to me during my most fragile state. Their stick-to-itiveness was and still is precious beyond words to me.

Those two examples lift my eyes, head, and heart back up and reignite in me the call to walk in love, loyalty, and commitment with others. I am so grateful for the many chances God gives me to correct my steps as well as my responses. His forgiveness when I falter, weaken, or hesitate is a gift I readily need and accept. His Spirit continues to be available to infuse me with what it takes to be a “Ruth” to each and every “Naomi” I know. May I do so with the same heart shown to me by God and others.

Father, thank you for the way You speak Your truth and Your heart into my life. Amen.

For Good - Kristin Chenoweth & Idina Menzel
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzrGFQysfYU

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.