Friday 29th January 2021
WHO IS GOING WITH YOU?
Scripture Reading: Ruth 1
But Ruth said: “Entreat me not to leave you, Or to turn back from following after you; For wherever you go, I will go; And wherever you lodge, I will lodge; Your people shall be my people, And your God, my God. (Ruth 1:16)
Ruth was a daughter-in-law to Naomi. Naomi and her husband had travelled to the land of Moab to seek for a better life. After a string of harrowing experiences, and having lost her husband and two sons, Naomi decided to return to Bethlehem.
Her widowed daughter-in-law, Ruth chose to return with her. Ruth’s commitment to Naomi is held up as a demonstration of great loyalty. Naomi’s other widowed daughter-in-law, Orpah did not accompany her on their journey back.
Each one of us needs relationships that help us get to where we are going. We are linked to others in this life by relationships. We give and receive from the people with whom we relate. Positive relationships energize us, whilst negative relationships drain us of strength.
The quality of our relations is crucial to the quality of the lives we live. There are enduring relationships in our lives and others which are transitional. The enduring relationship stays with you through tough times. The transitional relationships leave when the going gets rough.
Each one of us must discern those relationships that are enduring and those that are transitional.
To make the most of your relationships, we must evaluate each one rightly and invest quality in them. Some people in your life must move from the place of importance you have given them for the right relationships to flourish. There are people you prioritize who do not deserve the position of preference you give to them.
Here are some ways to make the most of your vital relationships:
▪ Remember those who helped you without expecting anything back
▪ Honour the person who stood by your side when you felt tired and weak
▪ Express gratitude to those whose encouragement helped to go through a challenging phase of your life
▪ Cherish those whose words of advice or counsel enabled you to make wise choices
▪ Remember also to be a helper who stands by, and encourages others through their difficult times.
Naomi and Ruth helped each other along their journey. Who is on your journey with you?
Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me recognize the people you have placed in my life to help me get to where I am going. In Jesus’ name, Amen!
