Ruth replied [to her mother-in-law, Naomi]: "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 beautiful statement of loyalty makes its way into thousands of weddings each year. Incredibly, this wasn't originally a pledge of a bride or groom. Instead, it was the pledge of Ruth to her mother-in-law - some would call her an ex-mother-in-law since Ruth's husband, Naomi's son, had died. Ruth, however, never treated Naomi as an "ex" of any kind. God loves loyalty and bestows his blessing and favor when we are faithful to others. In an era where people are thrown away as readily as paper plates, paper napkins, and soft drink cans, let's remember that loyalty is a quality that God not only loves but also a character trait that he defines for us in Jesus. So, let's see our loyalty to our friends, family, and other followers of Jesus as a crucial and God-honoring commitment. God used Ruth's loyalty to change history and bring us Jesus!
My Prayer...
Almighty and faithful God, thank you for your loyalty to your covenant promises to Israel. Thank you for not giving up on your people or abandoning your promises despite the fickleness and unfaithfulness of your children. Bless us today as we seek to be loyal and honorable people, your true children in a turbulent and treacherous world. May the light of faithfulness seen in us beckon others to find stability and hope in your grace and among your people. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
"[After Rhoda left Peter outside at Mary's house in her excitement at seeing him, he] continued knocking. When they finally opened the door and saw..."
"[Jesus explained his statements about the gate and the sheep:] "I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. All who came before me were thieves..."
"If I didn't have spiritual faith, I would be a pessimist. But I'm an optimist. I've read the last page in the Bible. It's all going to turn out all right."
About This Devotional
Today's Verse is a free daily devotional that includes a Bible verse, thought and prayer.
The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.
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