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. Where you die, I will die, And there will I be buried. The Lord do so to me, and more also, If anything but death parts you and me.” (Ruth 1:16&17, NKJV)
PONDER THIS!
The book of Ruth is a wonderful story of love, loyalty and devotion. Ruth, the daughter-in-law of Naomi, commits to leaving her family, friends and homeland to follow her mother-in-law wherever Naomi would go. Naomi tries with everything in her power to convince Ruth to stay in her home country with her family. Yet, Ruth’s love for Naomi was so strong that she vowed to never leave her side.
Love, loyalty and devotion. These three qualities are what is missing in many relationships today. Ruth’s decision to follow her mother-in-law required a sacrifice on her part. Many relationships fail today because too many of us are not willing to make the sacrifice to foster love. Too many people are only “fair whether friends.” When things get tough, the selfish get going.
1. Many people profess to love but fail in their heart and actions to show their love through sacrifice.
2. Are you one who sacrifices and is willing to sacrifice for those you say you love?
3. Are you a loyal family member, friend spouse?
4. Are you devoted to those you say you love?
True friendships and strong relationships are built upon these three attributes. The question is, can those who know you say that you are a person who exemplifies, LOVE, LOYALTY AND DEVOTION?