Bible Pathways - March 31, 2006

March 31, 2006
Read Ruth 1
In Today's
Famine; Elimelech and Naomi move from
Perhaps, while standing in their unproductive fields in the Judean hills, Elimelech, his wife Naomi, and their sons Mahlon and Chilion looked down on fertile
However, unforeseen tragedy struck in the idol-worshiping country of Moab Elimelech died, then his sons ignored their Covenant relationship with God and married Ruth and Orpah, who were Moabite women. Sometime later, Mahlon and Chilion also died (1:3-5). The three childless widows were left without a means of support. Then she (Naomi) arose with her daughters in law. . . . and they went on the way to return unto the
Soon Orpah returned to her earthly securities, back unto her people, and unto her gods (1:15). But Ruth was no longer a Moabite in her heart, for she had forsaken the gods of Moab and confessed her loyalty to the God of Israel by saying to Naomi: Thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God (1:16).
Ruth and Naomi arrived in
For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly . . . But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the Spirit, and not in the letter (Romans 2:28-29).
Word Studies:
1:20 Mara = bitter; 2:3 her hap was to light = she happened to come; 2:8 fast by = close by; 4:1 the gate = the city's meeting place to transact business; 4:5 thou must buy it also of Ruth = in order to redeem the property, you must take Ruth as your wife.
Christ Revealed:
Through
Prayer Needs:
Pray for The International Shortwave Radio Broadcast sponsored by Dr. & Mrs. John A. Hash · Government Officials: Rep. Dennis Cardoza (CA), Rep. Barney Frank (MA), Rep. Stephen Lynch (MA), Rep. James Marshall (GA), and Sen. Patrick Leahy (VT) · Country: Nigeria (114 million) in western Africa · Major languages: English and Hausa · Government permits all types of religious activity · 36% Muslim; 19% Protestant; 15% animist; 7% Roman Catholic · Prayer Suggestion: Rejoice over and pray for those who share the Good News (Nahum 1:15).
Optional
Memory Verse for the Week: Ruth 1:16