DAILY DEVO...Ruth: a book of selfless love

Yesterday and today, we have been in the book of Ruth in our Read-thru-the-Bible Scripture reading. The book of Ruth is a short story but so full of selfless love.

It begins by telling of a story of a woman who had lost everything. Naomi and her husband had two sons. Things didn't go so well for Naomi. First, their sons married women who were not Israelites, then Naomi's husband died leaving her alone and soon after, her only two sons died before having any children.

(Ruth 1:20) "Don't call me Naomi," she told them. "Call me Mara, because the Almighty has made my life very bitter."

How alone Naomi must have felt. But she was not alone. She had God and she had a daughter-in-law that was devoted to her. Ruth stayed by her side and provided for Naomi when she was unable.

By the end of this story Naomi was no longer feeling empty and bitter. Because of the Grace of God and because of the love and devotion of a dear friend like Ruth, Naomi became a different person.

Often times, God places people in our life that may seem like a mismatch or not someone we would choose. But with His divine appointment, when paths are crossed, something incredible can happen.

God used a friend like Ruth to encourage Naomi. I wonder if you have such a friend or more importantly, ARE you that friend?

Take time to read the book of Ruth. It's an incredible story of unselfish love and friendship.

BLESSINGS. Laurie

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE READING: Ruth 3-4, Luke 23:26-24:12, Psalm 78:5-8

SATURDAY'S SCRIPTURE READING: 1 Samuel 1:1-2:21, Luke 24:13-53, Psalm 78:9-16

SUNDAY'S SCRIPTURE READING: 1 Samuel 2:22-4:22, John 1:1-28, Psalm 78:17-24