PRAISE FORSAKEN

In the days when the judges ruled there was a famine in the land, and a man of Bethlehem in Judah went to sojourn in the country of Moab, he and his wife and his two sons... They went into the country of Moab and remained there. But Elimelech, the husband of Naomi, died, and she was left with her two sons... and both Mahlon and Chilion died, so that the woman was left without her two sons and her husband.

(Ruth 1:1, 2b, 5 ESV)

The book of Ruth has a warm and fuzzy ending, but it doesn’t start that way. Naomi’s husband, Elimelech, uprooted his family to live among his pagan neighbors when times became tough, only to die along with his sons. From a natural perspective, it may be easy to chalk Naomi’s situation to a sad turn of events. Yet, one may form a differing opinion when examining the spiritual implications of Elimelech’s actions.

In Biblical history, names carried great significance, which is why God changed Abram’s name to Abraham and Jacob’s to Israel. When you follow the lives of most Biblical characters, you will discover that their character traits, behaviors, or destinies are tied to their names.

Bethlehem was a city inhabited by the descendants of Judah. The word “Judah” means “praise.” Elimelech forsook the land of “praise” to relocate to a land founded on incest and idolatry in hopes of getting a piece of the proverbial pie. Unfortunately, he forgot the key to conquering his situation: Sending Praise first.

In Judges Chapter 1, Joshua died before the Israelites completed their God-assigned task of conquering Canaan. So as they continued their conquest, they asked God whom they should send into battle. God instructed them to send Judah first. Next, as we read in chapter 20, where a civil war between Israel and Benjamin ensued, God told the Israelites to send Judah first. Then, in 2 Samuel 5:1-5, when David—a Judite known for praising God—became king, guess what tribe he presided over first? Judah. God didn’t release David to reign over the entire kingdom of Israel until he perfected rulership over Praise.

In Donald Lawrence’s song, “Don’t Forget To Remember,” he commissions us to remember God’s blessings in our lives. Recalling what God has done in our past makes it easier to send forth praise even in times of storm. Moreover, memories of His goodness should awaken the spirit of Judah in us as our faith is strengthened.

Elimelech lost his life in an idolatrous land as plenty was restored in Judah. The grass isn’t greener on the other side of praise—unless it’s Astroturf. So learn from Elimelech, and don’t forsake your praise!

Reflection:

Create a list of as many things you can think of that God has done for and in you. If, after you’ve completed your list, you notice you’ve strayed away from your proverbial Judah, repent for your negligence in giving God honor. Then, return to the land of praise by showering Him with the glory due His name.