A Gentile Named Ruth

Ruth was a Mobite. Her Israelite husband broke God’s law by marrying her when he lived in the land of Moab. Then he died, and when his mother Naomi prepared to return to Israel, Ruth must have seriously thought about staying in her homeland. She would surely face rejection and persecution in the land of her husband’s family.

But Ruth was unwilling to separate herself from God’s people. The Bible tells us she clung to Naomi. She said, For wherever you go, I will go; wherever you lodge, I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God. (Ruth 1:16b NKJV)

The young woman born outside of God’s kingdom decided she would chose God by identifying with His people. She journeyed to Israel with Naomi. When she demonstrated great tenderness and love for her mother-in-law, she was accepted in spite her background.

Then, in one of Scripture’s most beautiful love stories, Ruth became the wife of Boaz. Their first son, Obed, became grandfather of King David. And centuries later Jesus descended from the lineage of David.

The outcast named Ruth—the Moabite Gentile—played an important role in the ancestry of Jesus. She was a forerunner of God’s plan to include Gentiles among the people who belong to Him.

Originally published December 14, 1990.

The Call of God

Whether they realize it or not, almost everyone hears the call of God on a regular basis—not as a loud, obvious voice—but as a small, quiet knowing in the heart. Perhaps we know we should forgive someone—or show love to a particular individual. Maybe we know we should spend more time with the Lord.

This type of knowing is usually gentle—easy to ignore. Nevertheless, a person who hears will often experience a negative reaction—both within themselves and from others. For human self-will balks when confronted by God’s call. We know—but our sinful nature rebels.

When a young Jeremiah heard God speak, he knew God’s gentle voice. Yet he made excuses when God gave Him a specific call. He knew the people he would have to confront. He knew the message God gave him would be rejected—and that he would be personally rejected as well. He said, Ah, Sovereign Lord . . . I do not know how to speak; I am only a child. (Jer. 1:6 NIV)

God spoke again, Do not say, I am only a child. You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you. (v. 7,8)

Originally published February 1, 1985.
Picture: Wild Berries, Glacier National Park, 2009. Photo by Solveig.