Good morning! Welcome to church, we’re so glad you’re here. In today’s message, entitled “Ruth 1,” Walter West highlights some exciting announcements and upcoming events. Firstly, there is a ministry called Re-engage for marriages that will be starting again on August 13th, and it will also be brought to the current campus in the spring. Additionally, there will be a day of prayer on August 6th, where the new buildings will be prayed over. After church on Sunday, there will be a prayer for a good start to the school year. There are also other events coming up, such as flourish, kids praise, and pop-up Sunday, so be sure to stay connected and get involved. Don’t forget to connect with us by texting “connect” to 904-441-6900 to receive more information and updates.
In the message, Walter also introduces the Book of Ruth from the Old Testament and shares about Ruth’s unexpected journey as an unlikely heroine. He emphasizes how God uses unexpected people to do amazing things and encourages us to take hold of God’s hand in our lives. Walter reminds us that God is personal, powerful, and loves us unconditionally, and we can trust in His ability to work in any situation. We are blessed with His word and can find comfort and peace in Him. Let’s embrace His love and trust in His will and promises. As the service concludes, the congregation is dismissed with the blessing and peace of God.
Ruth 1
Introduction to Ruth 1 video
Welcome, everyone! We are so glad that you have joined us for today’s service. Before we get into the video on Ruth chapter 1, we have a few announcements and updates to share with you.
Announcements about connecting with the church and upcoming events
First, we want to remind you about the various ways you can connect with our church community. We have small groups meeting throughout the week, both in-person and online. These groups are a great way to build deeper relationships and grow in your faith alongside others. If you’re interested in joining a small group, please reach out to our church office or visit our website for more information.
Now, let’s talk about some exciting upcoming events that we have planned for the upcoming weeks.
Upcoming Events
Re-engage ministry for marriages
We believe that healthy marriages are the foundation of strong families and communities. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce our Re-engage ministry for marriages. This program is designed to help couples reconnect, reignite their love, and grow together in their faith. If you’re married or know a couple who could benefit from this ministry, we encourage you to sign up and participate.
Day of prayer on August 6th for new buildings
On August 6th, we will have a special day of prayer dedicated to our new building projects. We believe in the power of prayer, and we are excited to come together as a church family to seek God’s guidance and blessing for these ventures. Mark your calendars and join us as we lift up our new buildings and all who will be impacted by their completion.
Prayer over schools for a good start to the school year
As the new school year approaches, we want to cover our schools, teachers, and students in prayer. Education is vitally important, and we believe that praying for our schools is a tangible way to support and bless our community. We invite you to join us for a special time of prayer where we will ask for God’s favor and protection over our schools and everyone involved in the education system.
Flourish event
Ladies, save the date for our upcoming Flourish event! This is a gathering specifically designed for women to come together, be encouraged, and grow in their faith. We will have inspiring guest speakers, worship, and fellowship. If you’re looking to be refreshed and empowered, make sure to mark your calendars for this fantastic event.
Kids praise event
Attention all parents and caregivers! We have something special planned for the little ones. Our Kids Praise event is a time dedicated to teaching children about praising God through music, dance, and interactive lessons. It’s a fun and engaging way for kids to connect with God and grow in their understanding of Him. We can’t wait to see all the little ones praising and worshiping!
Pop-up Sunday event
Our final upcoming event is our Pop-up Sunday. This is an exciting opportunity for us as a church to meet in a new, unexpected location within our community. These Pop-up Sundays allow us to spread the love and message of Jesus to different areas and connect with people who may not have experienced church before. Keep an eye out for more details on where and when our next Pop-up Sunday will be happening.
Now that we’ve covered our upcoming events, it’s time to delve into the Book of Ruth.
The Book of Ruth
Introduction and reading from the Old Testament
Today, we want to introduce you to the Book of Ruth. This beautiful book not only reveals God’s faithfulness but also highlights the importance of ordinary people in His grand plan. In Ruth 1, we encounter Naomi, a woman who experienced immense loss, and her extraordinary daughter-in-law, Ruth.
Highlighting the story of Naomi and her daughters-in-law
The story of Naomi and Ruth is one of loyalty, sacrificial love, and redemption. Naomi, having lost her husband and both of her sons, decides to return to her homeland, Bethlehem, after hearing that the famine has ended. She encourages her Moabite daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth, to stay in Moab and find new husbands. However, Ruth’s devotion to Naomi touches our hearts and leads her to say those unforgettable words, “Where you go, I will go. Where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God.”
Ruth as an unlikely heroine
Ruth, a Moabite woman in a foreign land, faced immense challenges and uncertainties. Yet, she displayed unwavering faith and loyalty to her mother-in-law. Her obedience and devotion to God set her apart as an unlikely heroine in this story. Despite the odds stacked against her, Ruth continued to trust in the Lord’s provision and leaned on His guidance.
The Lord using unexpected people to do amazing things
One of the most profound truths that we can take away from the Book of Ruth is that God often uses unexpected people to accomplish His plans. Ruth, a foreigner, found favor in the eyes of Boaz, a prominent landowner and relative of Naomi’s late husband. Through their union, God would bring about not only the restoration of Naomi’s family but also the lineage that would eventually lead to King David.
Dialogue in the book
The dialogue throughout the Book of Ruth reveals the deep emotions, struggles, and hope that these characters experienced. We witness the conversations between Naomi and her daughters-in-law, the encounters between Ruth and Boaz, and the conversations among the community members in Bethlehem. These dialogues provide insight into the complex relationships and the ways in which God’s hand was at work in the lives of these individuals.
Ruth’s importance in the genealogy of King David
It is crucial to highlight the significance of Ruth’s inclusion in the genealogy of King David. Through her faithfulness and obedience to God, Ruth became an integral part of the ancestry of Israel’s greatest king. This truth shows us that God values individuals from all backgrounds and uses their lives to bring about His divine purposes.
Ruth’s Faithfulness
Ruth’s memorable words of faithfulness in verses 16 and 17
One of the standout moments in Ruth’s story is when she declares her faithfulness to Naomi in verses 16 and 17. Her words, filled with love and commitment, resonate throughout generations. Ruth’s unwavering loyalty to her mother-in-law serves as an inspiration to us all. In our own lives, we can strive to emulate Ruth’s faithfulness in our relationships, knowing that God honors and blesses such devotion.
God using unexpected people to accomplish His plans
Ruth’s journey is a beautiful testament to the fact that God often uses the most unexpected individuals to accomplish His plans. He sees the potential and faithfulness in each person, regardless of their background or circumstances. Just as God used Ruth’s loyalty to bring about redemption and restoration, He can use our own lives to fulfill His purposes when we trust and follow Him wholeheartedly.
The hand of the Lord and God’s activity
As we read through the Book of Ruth, we can’t help but notice the hand of the Lord at work in every detail of the story. God orchestrated events and circumstances to bring about His desired outcome. In the same way, we can be assured that God remains active and present in our lives today. His hand is at work, even when we may not always comprehend His plans.
God’s Hands and Work
Understanding the metaphor of God’s hands
Throughout the Bible, we find references to God’s hands, symbolizing His power, provision, and guidance. When we talk about God’s hands, we are acknowledging His authority and sovereignty over all things. It is a reminder that He holds and shapes our lives with wisdom and love. Just as a skilled potter molds clay, God molds and shapes our lives according to His divine plan.
Relating and working in the presence of God’s hands
Recognizing God’s hands at work in our lives allows us to confidently navigate the ups and downs of life. We can find comfort and strength, knowing that we are held securely in His loving hands. It also encourages us to actively participate in God’s work, surrendering to His guidance and cooperating with His purposes.
Recognizing God’s power and control over weather
One fascinating aspect to consider when reflecting on God’s hands is His power and control over the weather. We see this demonstrated throughout the Bible, from the parting of the Red Sea to Jesus calming the storm. Understanding God’s authority over natural elements reminds us of His limitless power and the assurance that He is with us, even in the midst of life’s storms.
Praising God in all circumstances
When we acknowledge God’s hands in our lives, we can praise Him in all circumstances, whether they are joyous or challenging. We are invited to offer thanks for His provision, guidance, and protection. This attitude of praise not only glorifies God but also deepens our trust in Him and strengthens our faith.
God’s Activity in Relationships
Naomi’s concern for her daughters-in-law
In the Book of Ruth, we witness Naomi’s genuine concern for the future of her daughters-in-law. Despite her own personal grief and pain, she encourages Orpah and Ruth to remain in Moab and find happiness there. Naomi’s love for her daughters-in-law showcases the importance of nurturing and caring for our relationships with others.
Seeing God’s kindness and rest in our relationships
When we approach our relationships with an intentional mindset, we can witness God’s kindness and rest in the midst of them. Just as Naomi found comfort in Ruth’s companionship during her difficult journey, we too can find solace and support in our own relationships. Let us strive to be vessels of God’s love and kindness as we navigate the complexities of human connections.
Mention of a ministry in Costa Rica focused on healing and shelter
Before we move on, we wanted to bring your attention to a ministry in Costa Rica that focuses on healing and shelter. Our church has partnered with this organization to bring hope and restoration to those in need. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve alongside them, and we encourage you to keep this ministry in your prayers and consider supporting it.
Trusting God in Difficult Times
Recognizing that bad circumstances don’t mean God hates us
In difficult times, it can be tempting to question whether God is punishing us or if He has somehow withdrawn His love from us. However, the story of Ruth reminds us that bad circumstances do not reflect God’s hatred or abandonment of His people. It is essential to remember that God’s love for us is unchanging, regardless of our circumstances.
Holding onto God’s hand and embracing His love in difficult times
When we find ourselves in challenging situations, it is crucial to hold onto God’s hand and embrace His love. Just as Ruth held firmly to Naomi and refused to let go, we can cling to God and His promises. We can find comfort, strength, and hope in His unending love, even in the darkest of times.
God’s love is not determined by our circumstances
It is worth repeating that God’s love is not determined by our circumstances. Our struggles and hardships do not diminish His love for us. Rather, God’s love remains constant and unwavering, providing us with the reassurance and security that we need as we navigate life’s challenges. We can trust in Him completely, knowing that His love will carry us through even the most difficult seasons.
Our Feelings vs the Truth
Naomi’s feelings of bitterness and emptiness
Naomi’s journey is marked by feelings of bitterness and emptiness. She lost her husband and both of her sons, and her heart was heavy with grief. In our own lives, we may experience similar emotions and struggles. It is essential to recognize and acknowledge our feelings but not let them dictate the truth.
Our feelings as reflections, not conveyors of truth
Our feelings can serve as reflections of our current state, but they should not be the sole conveyors of truth. We must remember that God’s truth is unchanging, regardless of how we may feel in a given moment. The Bible provides us with a solid foundation of truth, revealing God’s character, His promises, and His unwavering love for us.
Finding truth about God in the Bible
When our feelings may contradict the truth, it is essential to turn to the Bible to find clarity and understanding. God’s Word is a source of wisdom, guidance, and truth. By immersing ourselves in His Word, we can discern His heart and align our thoughts and emotions with His perfect truth.
Taking God’s Hand
Realizing God fills us up rather than emptying us out
In our daily lives, we may often seek fulfillment and purpose in various places, relationships, or accomplishments. However, as we witness in the story of Ruth, it is God who fills us up and gives us true purpose. Rather than seeking fulfillment in temporary sources, we can find lasting satisfaction and abundant life by taking God’s hand and surrendering to His plans.
Embracing abundant life through Jesus
Jesus invites us to embrace abundant life by taking His hand and following Him. He is the source of true fulfillment, joy, and peace. When we choose to walk hand in hand with Jesus, surrendering our lives to Him, we can experience the fullness of life that He promises. Let us embrace His love and grace and allow Him to lead us into a life marked by purpose and eternal significance.
God’s hand being active and working in the world
Lastly, we must not forget that God’s hand is continuously active and at work in the world. He is not a passive observer but an actively involved Creator. From the beginning of time until the present moment, God’s hand has been shaping and guiding His creation, including our own lives. We can find comfort and assurance in knowing that God’s hand is always at work, weaving together a beautiful tapestry of purpose and destiny.
Conclusion
As we come to the end of our service today, we want to dismiss you with the blessing and peace of God. We hope that today’s video and the insights from the Book of Ruth have been an encouragement to you. Remember to stay connected with our church community and mark your calendars for the upcoming events we mentioned. May God bless each one of you richly as you continue your journey, holding onto His hand and embracing His love.