Clinging to Jesus
May 20, 2020·Shaina Webb
“Then they lifted up their voices and wept again. And Orpah kissed her mother-in-law, but Ruth clung to her.” — Ruth 1:14
In this week’s Pause Bible reading plan, we read a few beautiful books of the Bible: 2 Corinthians, 1 Samuel and Ruth. Today, I’d like us to camp out in the Book of Ruth and rest in the promises and legacy within these four chapters.
Growing up, Ruth was always one of my favorite books in the Bible and, as I grew older, I realized this small book contained more than I ever imagined. At first glance, this may look like a simple story, however, there is a constant theme of love and faithfulness throughout this book, mirroring the unwavering love and faithfulness of our Father God.
This may seem like an odd passage to meditate on today, but I felt a little tug every time I read the words, “Ruth clung to her.” Naomi wasn’t going on vacation (something a lot of us would like to do right about now), she was leaving Moab and traveling back to Israel in order to survive. I am certain it would have been more comfortable for Ruth to stay in Moab, however, her decision to stay with Naomi, even when it was not easy, hints to her radical faith. Ruth humbled herself before Naomi, Boaz and God, and the Lord blessed her. Faith is being ready when the Lord says “go,” listening when the Lord speaks, and stepping out when the Lord says “trust Me.” I’m reminded of a lyric from a new favorite worship song:
“And it was all so simple
It was easy to love.
No space between us
It was easy to trust.”
I’m sure the moment Ruth clung to Naomi, it was not the easiest decision, but the Lord saw Ruth’s faithfulness and noticed her willingness to trust. The Lord is faithful. At the end of the book, we celebrate as Ruth marries Boaz, they have a son named Obed, Obed was the father of Jesse, Jesse was the father of David (Ruth 4:21), and I am sure you know where I’m going with this, the bloodline of Jesus was through David. Which means Ruth was instrumental in the grand orchestration of the Lamb coming down to earth and dying for you and me. Stepping out in faith is not simple, it’s not easy, and it’s not always pleasant, but when we cling to the Lord, we can step out in unwavering faith, walking in His love.
This week, I want to encourage us to examine the areas we may be clinging to and pray for the Lord’s discernment in the areas we need to surrender. Loved one, do not forget that God is not asking us to submit things to Him because He wants us to be without, He asks us to submit and trust Him so that our faith can be strengthened. And watch how He uses our faith to make way for His presence.
Shaina Webb
