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OBEDIENCE
And she replied, “All that you say I will do.” Ruth 3:5
While there are many wonderful truths we can glean from Ruth’s story in this chapter, let us draw from the heavenly well the sweet waters which refresh us with pictures of obedience. When it comes to the work, labors, and activity of the normal Christian life, this chapter’s illustration of Ruth’s obedience in carrying out Naomi’s instructions is a blessed model for us because it is a prophetic foreshadow of Christ’s obedience; and therefore, an example for you and I to emulate. Apart from the grace of God in Christ, our obedience is flawed at best and outright rebellion at worse. Our obedience is inconsistent and the flaws manifest in various ways. Sometimes we say we will do, and we don’t execute. Sometimes we labor without speaking, and worse we give no glory to God for His empowerment. Occasionally, we say, and do, but we do so grudgingly, or sorrowfully, or worse, angrily. It should shame us when we consider that Christ Jesus was obedient unto death, even while hanging upon the cross (Phil 2:8). The manner in which we obey is as important as the act itself. Ruth possessed a willing cheer in following Naomi’s instruction; not grudgingly, but happy to obey (2 Cor 9:7). Ruth was also sober and meticulous in carrying out the details, whereas she said, “All that you say…” Ruth also exhibited humility and honor in her tasks— she honored both Naomi and the respected Bethlehemite, Boaz, by entering and departing discreetly so as not to cause a scandal; moreover, the details of the task, in keeping the Law of Moses, differed from the Moabite ways she had known as a child, yet she humbly submitted herself to everything Naomi taught. The Lord Jesus is the perfect example of obedience, yet by sovereign grace, He places blessed souls around us who model obedient behavior for you and I to follow. Paul said, “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ” (1 Cor 11:1). Hallelujah! What a Savior!
Thank you, Lord, You’ve blest us with
Discoveries eternal;
Empower us to behave like You
As true saints supernal.
Thank you for making this listener available. It’s really hard for me sometimes to concentrate while sitting and reading it but this was really beneficial for me!😊😎