FLAMING WORD – P26
RUTH 1:14-15
PART 3
14 And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth clave unto her.
15 And she said, Behold, thy sister in law is gone back unto her people, and unto her gods: return thou after thy sister in law.
Naomi was returning to Bethlehem-judah. Not only was she returning physically to the land but spiritually, she was returning to the Lord God Most High who had “visited His people in giving them bread” (v6). To enjoy of the good of the land, to enjoy what God has given to His people, Naomi knew she had to not only separate herself from the strange land but also their gods. She had to break any covenant she had with the land and its gods. And her daughters-in-law knew so too. It was time to make a decision.
Orpah kissed Naomi, and returned to her land and her gods. She had the choice to come under God’s canopy but she chose otherwise. Life’s decisions. God gives everyone the opportunity to be saved but the price of leaving some people and things behind is what they are not ready to pay. As many as receive Him, He gives them power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name (John 1:12).
Salvation is free. Someone like Naomi must tell of her God. Dearest, we must tell of the goodness of our God and give people the opportunity to receive Him as their Lord and personal Saviour. The final decision lies with them. Whosoever will may come.
God is making us like Naomi. Give someone the opportunity to know God. Don’t keep silent. Preach the gospel.
Shalom
