Loss Doesn't Get The Final Wordنموونە

God Is Patient

When Ruth’s mother Naomi loses her husband and two sons, she tells the people of her hometown, “Do not call me Naomi (pleasant); call me Mara (bitter), for the Lord almighty has dealt bitterly with me” (Ruth 1:20-21). 

Naomi responded to the situation like a lot of people do. She was hurt and upset. How could a loving God do this to me? Despite her anger, God did not abandon her. No, he patiently remained faithful and even eventually provided a redeemer for her and Ruth in Boaz. 

In this brief story, we see how God faithfully provides for us, even in times of loss. Naomi and Ruth both had reasons to grieve, each losing their husband and Naomi losing her son, but in this time, God gave them each other. When Naomi urges Ruth to find a life for herself, Ruth responds by displaying her loyalty to Naomi: “Do not urge me to leave you or to return from following you. For where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God.” 

Through their loss, God also brought them back to their home, which led them to Boaz, the one who would redeem them and provide for them. While the story begins with Naomi being bitter at God, it ends with her praising Him.

As you read these passages, think about how God has provided for you in the midst of your grieving. How has he remained faithful even if you have had moments of anger and bitterness like Naomi?