Love God Greatly: RuthSample

Even in her bitterness, Naomi speaks a blessing over her two daughters-in-law. She prays that their lives will turn around and that God will extend grace to them because of their kindness toward her family. The word “kindly” here in the original Hebrew is “hesed,” which implies that a powerful person is merciful to someone weaker. This kindness is not out of duty, but springs up from a faithful love. The word “hesed” is a theme that threads throughout the book of Ruth, so keep an eye out for it. God has extended His kindness to us, and the story of Ruth is going to display how He is at work in every single detail of our lives. He longs to bless us, and today, He is Providentially at work orchestrating details behind the scenes. Ruth was kind to Naomi, and God noticed that. Today you may think that God is not noticing the little things that you selflessly do to encourage others, but He never misses a thing. His “hesed” is heading your way. Lord, thank You for extending Your grace to us. Help us to be mindful of opportunities to be kind to the people in our circle of influence today. May we share Your “hesed” with the hurting and bless their day. Amen.