Flourish!Sample

RECEIVE GOD’S PROVISION

Are you a good receiver? Do you have a number of unused gifts? Suppose one of these gifts is something you need and in plain sight, yet unused. Would your failure to use the gift make sense?

What if Ruth had rejected the opportunity to work in Boaz’s field? Or what if Ruth had refused Naomi’s wisdom for making Boaz aware of her marriage availability?

Rejection of the gifts above could have prolonged and/or complicated Ruth’s journey to becoming Boaz’s wife. Thankfully, that didn’t happen because Ruth was as gracious a receiver as she was a giver.

After marrying Boaz and birthing Obed, their son, Ruth continued giving. Notably, she shared the joy of family by including Naomi, her bereaved mother-in-law, in Obed’s care. Ruth's compassion prompted the neighborhood women to encourage Naomi in exclaiming, “Your daughter-in-law loves you, and has done more for you than seven sons. And now she has given you a grandson, who will bring new life to you and give you security in your old age” (Ruth 4:15, GNT).

New life coursed through the family line. Obed became the father of Jesse, who became the father of King David, who became an ancestor of Jesus Christ (Ruth 4:17). Only the Sovereign Omniscient One foreknew a widowed Moabite refugee would be His choice as a matriarch of the greatest kings: King David and the King of Kings, Jesus Christ.

Takeaway:

From my vantage point, Ruth’s difficult circumstances readily gave way to God’s power and resolve to bless her. Remember who God is. He is El Olam, The Everlasting God, Who reigns forever without change. God’s love for you is unchanging and His purpose for you, His beloved child, is invincible.

Scriptural Encouragement for Expecting God’s Help in Difficult Circumstances

Jeremiah 31:3, NIV: “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.”

Jeremiah 29:11, NLT: “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”

Isaiah 55:11, NIV: “so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.”

Beloved child of God, remember nothing is too difficult for your Father, the Omnipotent, Omniscient, and Omnipresent One. When difficult times come, fear not. Instead, focus your eyes of faith on God and Flourish!

Congratulations on completing this plan! This plan is based on Dr. Stephanie L. Foster’s upcoming book, Take Your Place, which is an action guide for using your God-given talents to fulfill your God-ordained purposes. To view her other books, please visit her website.