Devotions Based on Hymns from Glory to God and Their Scriptural Allusions

READ: Ruth 2:1

Now Naomi had a kinsman on her husband’s side, a prominent rich man, of the family of Elimelech, whose name was Boaz.

Ruth 2:1

In Chapter 1 of the Old Testament book of Ruth, it seems that Naomi’s life has been a wild roller coaster ride. She went to Moab with her husband, Elimelech, and their two sons, Mahlon and Chilion. Elimelech dies and Naomi becomes a widow. Naomi’s two sons, Mahlon and Chilion marry Moabite women, with Mahlon marrying Ruth and Chilion marrying Orpah. Naomi is a foreigner in the land of Moab, and she decides to return to her homeland.

Once back in her familiar surroundings, Naomi recalls a kinsman of Elimelech. He is a prominent man and is a man of wealth. Perhaps Boaz will show Naomi and Ruth favor in this perilous time. Naomi and Ruth may not go hungry. Naomi and Ruth may be able to do more than eke out a living. From the gloom of Ruth Chapter 1, a bright ray pierces the darkness like sunlight shattering the darkness at dawn. We see this reflected in the hymn, Praise Ye the Lord, the Almighty, particularly verses 1 and 2.

Praise Ye the Lord, the Almighty, the king of creation. O my soul praise him, for he is thy health and salvation! All ye who hear, now to his temple draw near; join me in glad adoration.

Praise Ye the Lord, who o’er all things so wondrously reigneth, shelters thee under his wings, yea, so gently sustaineth! Hast thou not seen how thy desires e’er have been granted in what he ordaineth?

Prayer

Blessed Lord, if we knew the future, we might be terrified. Fortunately, we know who holds the future and who holds us in the palm of His hands and that is You! When we feel that we cannot hold on any longer, let us be encouraged by the words, “Let go and let God!” When the darkness seems suffocating, remind us that it is always darkest just before the dawn. We give You praise and thanks for being with us and encouraging us. In Christ’s name, we pray. Amen.