A Lesson in Loyalty & Devotion
Ruth 1
November 14, 2010 – Sunday AM
21 Fellowship, SBC
Simon Goncharenko
I. Lacking devotion results in retreat in the face of trials – vv. 1-2.
A. Elimelech’s family possessed God’s promises – Gen. 12, 15; Ex. 20.
B. Their “neither hot nor cold” relationship with God sent them running when times got hard – vv. 1-2.
C. Naomi’s lack of faith portrays Israel’s spiritual condition – vv. 3-4, 13, 15, 20-22.
II. Running from God’s will carries us outside of His protective care – vv. 3-5.
A. The deaths of Elimelech, Mahlon & Kilion were the result of their disobedience to God’s word – vv. 3-5, 13, 20-21
B. Parents’ attitudes & actions toward God are noticed and copied by their children – vv. 3-4.
III. Full devotion to God transforms our lives & lifestyles – vv. 16-22.
A. It starts with selfless motive – Ruth’s commitment to Naomi was a pure act of selflessness – vv. 6-19.
B. Ruth’s devotion to God shines brightly compared to everyone else in the story – vv. 16-19:
i. Took her out of her homeland
ii. Gave her a new nation
iii. Brought her from idol worship to a growing relationship with the living God
C. Commit today to be fully devoted follower of Christ!
i. Get saved, if you don’t know Jesus!
ii. Get serious, if you know Him but haven’t lived for Him!
Our full devotion to God requires a drastic separation from old life
