The Power of Love and Dedication in the Story of Ruth - A Reflective Study

Introduction: This reflective study delves into the timeless story of Ruth, a tale of love, loyalty, and dedication. Divided into four main chapters, this book explores Ruth's decision-making, her selfless acts of service, her trust in divine provision, and the ultimate rewards she receives. Through a closer examination of the key characters and places, we uncover the profound lessons and values embedded in this remarkable narrative.

Chapter 1: Ruth's Resolve - Choosing Love Before delving into the main events, it's crucial to understand the circumstances that led Ruth and Naomi to leave their homeland and enter a foreign land dominated by pagan beliefs. Despite Naomi's initial discouragement, Ruth remains steadfast in her commitment to accompany her mother-in-law. Ruth's heartfelt declaration of loyalty showcases her unwavering dedication, even in the face of adversity.

Chapter 2: Love's Response - Boaz's Kindness This chapter introduces Boaz, a man of virtue and compassion. We witness the cultural practice of leaving portions of the harvest for the poor and widows, providing them an opportunity for self-sufficiency. Ruth's encounter with Boaz reveals his honorable character and his recognition of her loyalty. Boaz ensures her safety and allows her to glean with dignity, highlighting the importance of compassion and empowering others.

Chapter 3: Love's Requests - The Kinsmen Redeemer Here, we explore the concept of the kinsmen redeemer, a significant custom in Ruth's time. Naomi orchestrates a plan for Ruth to appeal to Boaz, who possesses the right to redeem their land. Ruth's obedience and Boaz's willingness to fulfill his role as the kinsmen redeemer demonstrate their commitment to the values of love, justice, and honor.

Chapter 4: Love's Reward - Divine Blessings The final chapter unveils a poignant scene where Boaz confronts an anonymous redeemer. Despite the opportunity to claim the land, this person declines, allowing Boaz to step forward. Boaz's adherence to the laws and his willingness to embrace responsibility showcase his integrity. The story concludes with Boaz and Ruth's union, leading to the lineage of King David.

Summary: While this study provides a brief overview of Ruth's journey, it reveals the remarkable qualities exhibited by the characters in this concise four-chapter book. Ruth's unwavering dedication and the seven-fold decree she makes reflect her resolute nature. Meanwhile, Boaz's righteous actions and commitment to his commitments exemplify the power of character over appearances. This thought-provoking quote resonates with both men and women, inviting us to reflect on the values of love, loyalty, and true worship.

Conclusion: The story of Ruth serves as an enduring testament to the power of love, loyalty, and dedication. Through her example, we learn the importance of making choices rooted in selflessness and honoring commitments. Ruth and Boaz inspire us to embrace virtues that extend beyond superficial appearances and instead focus on the genuine essence of character. May their story continue to guide and inspire us on our own journeys of faith and love.

The Power of the Name "Jesus"

 

The name "Jesus" holds immense significance. It is not just a word, but a powerful invocation that can bring about salvation, healing, deliverance, and more. Understanding the importance of using this name in our words, prayers, and actions is crucial for every believer. In this guide, we will explore the various ways the name of Jesus can impact our lives and the principles we should follow as Christians.

The Power of the Name "Jesus"

The name "Jesus" is the key to unlocking the supernatural power available to believers. It is the only name through which we can experience salvation, healing, and deliverance from evil forces. The Bible affirms that Jesus has all power in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:18). This name encompasses the essence of the entire Bible, as Jesus is God manifested in the flesh (Matthew 1:23).

Using the Name "Jesus"

As followers of Christ, it is essential to recognize the authority and power inherent in the name "Jesus." By using His name, we access the power of attorney given to us (Colossians 3:17). Jesus taught His disciples the significance of using His name in their actions, emphasizing its pivotal role in casting out demons, healing the sick, and saving souls.

Actions Done in the Name of Jesus

1. Salvation: The name of Jesus is the only means of salvation (Matthew 1:21-23, Acts 4:12).
2. Baptism: Baptism is to be performed in the name of Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:19, Acts 2:38, Acts 8:16).
3. Prayer: Prayers offered in the name of Jesus are promised to be answered (John 14:13-15).
4. Healing: The name of Jesus has the power to bring healing (Acts 3:1-11, 6).
5. Casting out Demons: Demons are cast out in the name of Jesus (Acts 16:18, Mark 16:15-18).
6. Giving Thanks: We offer our gratitude in the name of Jesus (Ephesians 5:20).
7. Sanctification: The process of sanctification occurs through the name of Jesus (1 Corinthians 6:11).
8. Confession: We confess and acknowledge Jesus in His name (Hebrews 13:15).
9. Anointing of the Sick: The anointing of the sick is done in the name of Jesus (James 5:14).
10. Believing: Belief and faith are centered on the name of Jesus (1 John 3:23).
11. Preaching: The message of Jesus is proclaimed in His name (Luke 24:45-47, Acts 8:5, Acts 8:35, Acts 9:20, Acts 10:36, 2 Corinthians 4:5, 1 Corinthians 1:23).

Conclusion: Understanding the power and significance of the name "Jesus" is vital for every Christian. It is the key that opens the door to salvation, healing, and victory over the forces of darkness. By incorporating the name of Jesus into our prayers, actions, and daily lives, we tap into the authority and power granted to us. Let us embrace the truth that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6), and honor His name in all that we do.

Why the Genesis 38 interlude??

The story of Joseph is a timeless tale of a 17-year-old who received a divine dream, only to be betrayed by his brothers and later rise to become second in command in Egypt. The same gift that led him to be cast into a pit eventually elevated him to a high-ranking position. The biblical account in Genesis 37 to Genesis 50 narrates Joseph's life and experiences, with chapter 38 standing out as a crucial chapter that, while not directly contributing to the main storyline, holds significance for future events.

While reading the Joseph narrative, one may wonder why chapter 38 is included. One possibility is its chronological importance, as the events of Judah's encounter with Tamar align with the timeline between Joseph's sale and subsequent rise. However, there is another aspect that emerges as the story unfolds. Judah, being the fourth born and not the firstborn, had to surpass three older brothers to become a leader. Initially, it was Reuben who attempted to save Joseph from his brothers' murderous intentions, resulting in Joseph being thrown into a pit. However, it was Judah who intervened, preventing Joseph's death and suggesting the sale to Midianite merchants (Genesis 37:26-27). This pivotal act set Joseph on the path to eventually saving his brothers.

Genesis 38 portrays a transformation in Judah, shifting from an egocentric brother to one who defends his younger brother Benjamin. The chapter recounts the deaths of Judah's two sons, his deceptive behavior towards Tamar, and his eventual acknowledgment of his wrongdoing. The closing scene, where Judah admits, "She hath been more righteous than I," signifies his profound change from an arrogant and faithless individual to someone who comprehends the consequences of his actions and strives to live righteously.

The name Judah means "praise," and it is fitting that the tribe bearing his name would lead Israel. Leading with praise should always be our guiding principle. Furthermore, the tribe of Judah is prophesied to produce the Messiah. The transformation from a younger Judah to an older Judah holds great significance. Chapter 38 plays a vital role in the storyline, as without it, the evolution of Judah's character would remain a mystery.

4th man by Oral Roberts

 In Genesis He is the Seed of the Woman.
 
In Exodus He is the Passover Lamb.
 
In Leviticus He is our High Priest.
 
In Numbers He is the Pillar of Cloud by day and the Pillar of Fire by night.
 
In Deuteronomy He is the Prophet like unto Moses.
 
In Joshua He is the Captain of our Salvation.
 
In Judges He is our Judge and Lawgiver.
 
In Ruth He is our Kinsman Redeemer.
 
In I and II Samuel He is our Trusted Prophet.
 
In Kings and Chronicles He is our Reigning King.
 
In Ezra He is our Faithful Scribe.
 
In Nehemiah He is the Rebuilder of the Broken Down Walls of our human life.
 
In Esther He is our Mordecai.
 
In Job He is our Dayspring from on high and our Ever-Living Redeemer.
 
In Psalms He is the Lord our Shepherd.
 
In Proverbs and Ecclesiastes He is our Wisdom.
 
In the Song of Solomon He is our Lover and the Bridegroom.
 
In Isaiah He is the Prince of Peace.
 
In Jeremiah He is the Righteous Branch.
 
In Lamentations He is the Weeping Prophet.
 
In Ezekiel He is the Wonderful Four-Faced Man.
 
In Daniel He is the Fourth Man in the burning fiery furnace.
 
In Hosea He is the Faithful Husband, forever married to the backslider.
 
In Joel He is the Baptizer with the Holy Ghost and Fire.
 
In Amos He is our Burden-Bearer.
 
In Obadiah He is the Mighty to Save.
 
In Jonah He is our Great Foreign Missionary.
 
In Micah He is the Messenger of Beautiful Feet, of carrying the Gospel.
 
In Nahum He is the Avenger of God's Elect.
 
In Habakkuk He is God's Evangelist, crying, "Revive thy work in the midst of the years."
 
In Zephaniah He is the Savior.
 
In Haggai He is the Restorer of God's Lost Heritage.
 
In Zechariah He is the Fountain Opened in the House of David for sin and uncleanness.
 
And in Malachi He is the Sun of Righteousness, rising with healing in His wings.
 
In Matthew He is the Messiah.
 
In Mark He is the Wonder-worker.
 
In Luke He is the Son of Man.
 
In John He is the Son of God.
 
In Acts He is the Holy Spirit.
 
In Romans He is our Justifier.
 
In Corinthians He is the Gifts of the Spirit.
 
In Galatians He is the Redeemer from the curse of the law.
 
In Ephesians He is the Christ of Unsearchable Riches.
 
In Philippians He is the God Who Supplies All Our Needs.
 
In Colossians He is the Godhead Bodily.
 
In I and II Thessalonians He is our Soon-coming King.
 
In I and II Timothy He is our Mediator between God and Man.
 
In Titus He is our Faithful Pastor.
 
In Philemon He is a Friend that Sticketh Closer that a Brother.
 
In Hebrews He is the Blood of the Everlasting Covenant.
 
In James He is the Great Physician.
 
In I an II Peter He is the Chief Shepherd who soon shall appear with a crown of unfading glory.
 
In I, II, and III John He is Everlasting Love.
 
In Jude He is the Lord Coming with Ten Thousands of his Saints.
 
And in Revelation He is the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords.

2023! I'm back & Ready to say things.

The last post, August 29th 2015 pointing to the website i'm helping with (still active, and has 2 podcasts now!) 

Of course much has changed in over 7 years .. pandemic hit, sure did not see that one coming. Most importantly is i feel solid in my career now! 

The bible is a dynamic book or volume of books rather - 66 books. This literary masterpiece holds so much history, life lessons, and most importantly the key to salvation!! 

From the opening of nothingness to the end of revelation, the entire book just breaths life into the souls of those who read the "good book". 

Currently i'm studying Joseph (Gen 37-50)! Such an amazing study, his early life being put in the pit at 17 and ended up being 2nd in command over egypt! Joseph put its so eloquently "What you mean for evil, God meant for good"! Such an amazing revelation - all things work together for the Good that love him (Rom 8:28)!! 

I will work on multi part series .. the hardest part of communication rather it be spoken or written is narrowing down a point, a niche of the talk and conveying the idea. Communication is about a journey - Listening to an audiobook on TED talks and it mentions the speech is about a journey, go with the through line and work through to the end!

Thanks for checking up on me! 

 -Bill
Jan 30, 2023