Day 1: God's Hand in Our Suffering (Ruth 1:1-22)

Today was the first day of the Ruth Bible Study. The message I heard was wonderful and made me even more excited for the rest of the week! It is such a joy to discover depth in the truth of God's Word! Although today's sermon was packed with many valuable points, lessons, and truths, some stood out to me more than others:
1) In Chapter one, a woman named Naomi loses her husband and two sons after they move from the land of God's people to the sinful city of Moab. During this time of great trial she decides to return to her hometown of Bethlehem. However, when her two daughters-in-law attempt to follow her, Naomi tells them they need not follow her, but should instead return to their hometown and try to find a better life. Verse 14 says: "...Then Orpah kissed her mother-in-law goodbye, but Ruth clung to her." Ruth could have so easily followed Orpah and returned to their hometown, a Godless city brimming with worldly pleasure. Yet, verse 16 says: "But Ruth replied, "Don't urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God." This is such a display of extraordinary faith on Ruth's part. Ruth came from a group of people who lived a life far from God. She really had no reason (in the world's eyes) to trust this God she didn't know. Yet, she stepped out in faith, willing to love her mother-in-law, and more importantly, submit to the King of Glory. In my lifetime, I have seen a great display of God's mighty works. I have walked with Him through the valleys and mountaintops. I have witnessed miracles. But I still sometimes find myself lacking faith. Ruth's example of such and extreme step of faith and love is an encouragement to my heart, and inspiration to take my own steps of faith--whether it feels safe or not. If a woman who didn't God could do it, I (a woman who knows Him personally) can too. :)
2) Looking at Naomi's situation, we might say it would be reasonable for her to feel hopeless or even angry at God. She has buried not only her husband, but also both of her children. In fact, she was very honest about how she felt! She asked that people call her Mara (which means bitter) because God had made her life bitter. Her honesty is something we should take note of. How many times do say we are "fine" rather than truthfully sharing that we are struggling? During this time of affliction, Naomi had a hard time seeing the big picture. She may have felt that God was punishing her, disliked her, or enjoyed seeing her pain. She may have believed in the sovereignty of God, but not the goodness of God. Why would a good God bring this pain? Throughout his teaching on this passage, Pastor Driscoll kept repeating: "God is sovereign AND good." If we don't believe that, we are doubting the very character of God. Yes, God is in control. Our God is a sovereign God! Yet, at the same time, He is such a good God. He holds each tear we shed. Also, He delights in blessing His children! However, so many times we are blinded by pain. Naomi couldn't see the future and the good that it held, and neither can we. But we can know that God IS good and gives us the blessing of "Sanctified Affliction."

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
~Romans 8:28~

This was such a wonderful reminder for me today. God is sovereign. He sees the pain and suffering I am going through. But he is also so, so good! He is so faithful to urge me on when I say I can't go on any longer. Morning by morning He fills my heart with enough praise, joy, peace, and strength to endure whatever the day may bring. His mercies are new every morning and His arms are wrapped so very tightly around me. I can relate to Naomi and the pain life brings. I can also rejoice because I know that I am experiencing "sanctified affliction." Wow. What a God we serve. :)