Ruth 3

As we viewed the providence of God last week in chapter 2 of Ruth, we saw the beginning of hope, albeit it was small hope,a spark of hope arises in Naomi. At the end of chapter 1 of Ruth, Naomi proclaims upon her return to Bethlehem: “ Do not call me Naomi; call me Mara,( … Read more

Judges 19 – 21

Judges 19-21: A Terrible End The last three chapters of Judges reveal an episode which will shock you. It is repulsive. It is a repeat of Sodom and Gomorrah with even greater wickedness. The account includes: wife abuse, rape, murder, dismemberment, kidnapping and civil war. This episode in Israel shows the depth of depravity that … Read more

Judges 17 & 18

Judges 17&18: Focus on the Family The last chapters of Judges are not in chronological order, but are similar to an appendix or footnotes, where the author shares episodes in Israel’s history that illustrate her corruption. I have entitled this lesson- ‘ focus on the family’ for two reasons: (1.) We will focus on one … Read more

Ruth 2

Ruth 2: Providence in Action Providence or the act of being provident can be defined as having the foresight to prepare and make provision beforehand. Think of people rushing to the grocery store when snow is forecast. Paul used a form of this word when he admonished us to ‘ make no provision for the … Read more

Ruth

Ruth: Hope in a Hopeless Situation Hope is defined as : “ a feeling ( emotion) of expectation and a desire for certain things to happen”. We all have to have hope. “ Now faith is being sure of what you hope for…” (Hebrews 11.) This is a story of hope linked to faith in … Read more