Growing up in Sweden, I loved receiving visitors in our home. I associated visitors with gifts—boxes of chocolates, beautiful cakes, and flowers—and as the recipient, it was always such a joy.

My room would be converted to a guestroom as needed. Often, guests left gifts. I fondly remember running to my room after they left to find my surprise. I favored the guests by the gifts they left. Their kindness did not go unnoticed.

I am reminded of individuals who did not go to the ones they loved empty-handed. Naomi brought an amazing gift with her back from Moab. There were gifts left by Boaz for Ruth and gifts brought to Naomi from Ruth, but my favorite- because I get to enjoy it too- was the gift of peace of mind left for us all by God.

Naomi returned home from the land of Moab empty-handed, destitute, a sorrowing widow without children, and bitter toward herself. Her husband’s decision to move the family to Moab led her into darkness, but God’s grace led her out and back to Him.

Ruth had heard about Naomi’s God and wanted to know more. Because of this, she was willing to leave behind everything she ever knew. Having lived abroad, I know the significance of this move. Ruth’s kindness and loyalty to Naomi brought her to a new home and a new life; her commitment to her mother-in-law and a God she didn’t know is remarkable.

Naomi thought she was returning empty-handed, but, in reality, she was returning to Israel with what would be the greatest gift known to mankind-Ruth is listed in the genealogy of Jesus, remember?

In the pit of despair, Naomi couldn’t see God’s plan unfolding. She even instructed Ruth to return to her family, back to her gods, but Ruth was determined to stay on the path that led to favor. It’s a lonely road for those who turn from favor. But Ruth clung to Naomi, sensing deliverance, no doubt. It wasn’t long before God began to shine His light into Naomi’s darkness.

When we can talk of little else but our dark circumstances, it is His hand that lifts us out of troubled waters and places us beside still waters. Often, He pairs us with a sister who straightens our thinking, offers encouragement, and gives us the strength needed to lift our heads and watch God’s plan unfold. There’s no need to go it alone.

Jesus left us the gift of peace of mind and heart. Don’t go empty-handed to the ones you love. Bring with you His grace, love, peace, and joy. Your kindness will be noted.

“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27, NKJV).

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Reprinted from the PURE Newsletter by Ladies Ministries UPCI.

2 Comments

  1. Bonnie Lewis

    That was so good! There is nothing like the peace of God.

  2. Kris L Mandley

    Such insight! Ruth never saw the result of her sacrifice and dedication, BUT JESUS was the result. How often we struggle and suffer in our own circumstances, thinking that life is not fair. We need to trust the Master who will eventually put it all together. Blessings!