Thursday, 8^th February 2024

Andrews Ampomah

TOPIC: THE JOY OF THE LORD

THEME SCRIPTURE: “So Naomi returned, and Ruth the Moabitess, her daughter in law, with her, which returned out of the country of Moab: and they came to Bethlehem in the beginning of barley harvest.” – Ruth 1:22

 

PREPARATORY QUESTIONS:

1. Where do you turn to and who do you look to in your moments of trials?

 

As David reflected on the tribulations of his life, he found solace in his unwavering trust in the Lord, proclaiming “But I trust in you, O LORD; I say you are my God.”

This profound trust in God impacted his ability to weather life's challenges. He declared, “My times are in your hand…” (Psa 31:15) signifying that because he recognized the Lord as his God, he could confidently face whatever came his way. David's understanding reminds us that if God has sovereignty over the circumstances of our lives, He also holds the power to determine their ultimate outcome. Life will certainly throw unpleasant things at us from time to time, but we must never forget that in good and bad times, our times are in God’s hands.

In our focus text (Ruth1:22) we learn that Naomi, accompanied by Ruth the Moabitess, returned to Bethlehem in the beginning of barley harvest. After enduring years of trials, losing her husband and two sons, Naomi through divine providence chose a moment of profound significance to return to her covenant community – precisely during the barley harvest, which marked the beginning of a series of joyful spring harvests in Israel.

Amidst uncertainty about their future, Naomi and Ruth made their return precisely when the Bread of Life had graciously visited His covenant people.

This timing brought not only joy but also hope, as they believed that since their times rested in God's hands, He would ultimately guide them to a favorable outcome. Providentially, it was during this harvest season that Ruth crossed paths with Boaz, the kinsman redeemer from Elimelech's lineage, eventually becoming the grandparents of King David.

Dearly beloved in Christ, the story of Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz's meeting during this significant season of harvest emphasizes the idea that God orchestrates our lives in ways we may not fully comprehend at the time.

We are bound to encounter times of trials but our faith in God can lead us to favorable outcomes. It is trust and confidence in God which engenders joy unspeakable in our heart. this joy is strength for the believer to go through tough times unwavering. Unsure about what you may be going through at this moment of your life, be encouraged to trust in God and to know for a certainty that because your times are in God’s hands weeping may only endure for a night, but the joy of the Lord is your strength. By morning, you will emerge the victor. God bless you!

 

FURTHER READING – Psalm 31

Call to Salvation: Today is your day if you have not received salvation by turning over your life to Jesus Christ. Click here to do so. 

 

QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU MEDITATE ON THE WORD:

1. Do you believe that those who trust in God will never be put to shame?

 

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, help me by Your Holy Spirit to continually trust in You and to rest in the assurance that since my times are in Your hands, all things will work out for my good in Christ Jesus, Amen.

 

1-Year Bible Reading Plan

Exodus 16; Psalm 70; Psalm 71; Mark 4