Ruth 2

​Last Sunday we launched our new mini sermon series on the book of Ruth. Apologies to those watching online, as the sound wasn’t working. We hope to be up and running again this Sunday.

In Chapter 1 we considered the sadness and the need for redemption for those who go their own way instead of God’s way and noted Ruth’s choice to come back from Moab with Naomi and make the Lord God her own God. Ruth committed herself to Naomi and her God completely. She was “All In” which is how God wants us all to follow him. Are you all in?

This Sunday we will look at Chapter 2 which emphasises the hope that comes from God’s love and the fruit of His love in a believer’s life. His love is shown through His blessings and provision for both Ruth and Naomi. Also, by bringing them a relative of Naomi’s husband named Boaz, who would restore them as a “kinsman redeemer” (Lev. 27:9-25; Deut. 25:5-10). There are many lessons and truths we can discover in this chapter. So, join us for the next exciting episode this Sunday.

In the meantime, you may like to reflect on this short devotion that my friend sent to me during the week; Based on Ruth 2:7 'She came and has continued from morning until now.'

When you work, do your best!
After ten years of sorrow and hardship in which she lost her husband and her support system, God introduced Ruth to her new husband, Boaz. He was the owner of the field that she worked in each day. One of the things that brought Ruth to Boaz's attention was her work ethic. The servant in charge of the reapers told Boaz, 'She came and has continued from morning until now' (Ruth 2:7 NKJV). Her work ethic moved her to a position of respect and honour.

The Bible has heaps to say about the difference between hard work and laziness, excellence and sloppiness, punctuality and lateness, honesty and dishonesty, a positive attitude and a negative one.

Read these three Scriptures: (1) 'Do you see people skilled in their work? They will work for kings, not for ordinary people' (Proverbs 22:29). (2) 'The lazy will not get what they want, but those who work hard will' (Proverbs 13:4). (3) 'A lazy person will end up poor, but a hard worker will become rich' (Proverbs 10:4).

By expecting much and giving back as little as possible in return, we don't just short-change the person or the organisation we work for, we short-change ourselves.

God promises to honour us when we give our best. His word says, 'You will enjoy what you work for, and you will be blessed with good things' (Psalm 128:2 NCV).

So what now? When you work/serve, give your best!
Know that you are pleasing God and that it will go well for you.

In response to this devotion, I want to work more diligently and acknowledge those of you who do. I want to say 'Thank you' to all who work/serve here at MEAC. In particular I'd like to thank Ian and Rosemary who work tirelessly in our gardens. The wardens: Geoff, Jim and Sarnia and treasurer Ross who excel in all they do. They do a lot!

Thanks to Kel overseeing the Ramp project, and to Peter overseeing the Hall Hire. To Amy and our Parish Council, to all who serve on Sundays, and to those behind the scenes - your service is noted and appreciated.

To each one of you who serves the Lord and his people here, I want to say that your work ethic moves you to a position of honour and respect.

Thank you for all you do.
Yours in Christ,
​Tanya