Christian Foundations

Ruth 1
A Jewess, Naomi, and her two daughters-in-law lose their husbands.
INSIGHT
In Ruth, we see one of the most stirring examples of loyalty in the Bible. In spite of Naomi's urgings to the contrary, Ruth stays with her, looking not for personal fulfillment or material comfort but longing merely to maintain the relationship with one whom she loves. This loyalty comes from a pure heart, and it is not surprising that it extends not just to Naomi but also to the Lord.
In stark contrast to Samson, Ruth's selflessness leads to beauty, fulfillment, and seeking the good of others. We should take instruction for our own lives and live as Ruth, not as Samson.
PRAYER
· Because we can have the beauty of the Lord in our lives, give thanks and praise to Him:
Blessed be the name of the Lord
From this time forth and forevermore!
From the rising of the sun to its going down The Lord's name is to be praised. . . .
Who is like the Lord our God,
Who dwells on high,
Who humbles Himself to behold
The things that are in the heavens and in the earth? . . .
He grants the barren woman a home,
Like a joyful mother of children.
Praise the Lord! (Psalm 113:2-3, 5-6, 9).
· Pray this confession to the Lord as you seek to keep your life free from sin:
Do not withhold Your tender mercies from me, O Lord;
Let Your lovingkindness and Your truth continually preserve me.
For innumerable evils have surrounded me;
My iniquities have overtaken me, so that I am not able to look up;
They are more than the hairs of my head;
Therefore my heart fails me
(Psalm 40:11-12).
· Confess any sins that the Holy Spirit brings to your mind. Now pray this affirmation to the Lord:
"He who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life" (John 5:24).
· As you make your requests known to the Lord, pray for:
· faithfulness with your talents,
· your state and local leaders,
· your activities for the day.
· Offer this closing prayer to the Lord:
To Him who is able to establish you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery which was kept secret since the world began . . . to God, alone wise, be glory through Jesus Christ forever. Amen (Romans 16:25, 27). 

Click here to subscribe to Walk Thru the Bible's free monthly enewsletters - relevant Biblical tools for living out your faith.