Thy Kingdom or My kingdom?”

Judges 15 - 16, Ruth

Lessons from Ruth:

1. PAIN

The orientation of our heart will decide whether our pain will consume us or our faith will consume it.

2. INCLUSION

Definition: “the action or state of including or being included within a group or structure.”

“the practice or policy of providing equal access to opportunities or resources for people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized, such as those who have physical or intellectual disabilities and members of other minority groups.” (Google Dictionary box)

Biblical Inclusion:

“All are welcome, but some things must be left behind, because they are harming you and holding you in bondage.”

- other gods

- controlling substances

- sinful habits

Next Steps:

- Honestly consider which type of person you are – the type that says to God, “Thy will be done,” or the type that says to God, “My will be done”?

- How comfortable/uncomfortable are you with God’s version of inclusion? Do you believe the gospel of forgiveness is essential? Is your thinking more influenced by the world or by God’s Word?

- If you’re dealing with pain, let the psalms teach you the language of lament (Psalm 3, 13, 32, 42, 61, 64, 73, 88, 130). To take it another step further, get a copy of, “Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy,” which is a great tool to help you process your pain and keep your faith real.