Fighting Against Isolation & for Relationships
We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us. - 1 Thessalonians 2:8 (NIV)
-THIS SUNDAY'S TEXT- Isolation is a killer – We must fight for relationships!
When we feel that the challenges of life have gotten the best of us, many of us run toward ISOLATION. People have sought ISOLATION for a number of reasons:
- sin – with a prideful and unrepentant heart
- sin – with feelings of guilt and shame
- sin – with feelings of embarrassment
- hurt – with a mindset to protect oneself
- fear – with a mindset of protecting others from oneself
Prior to reading Ruth 1, AGAIN, read the first two chapters of 1 Thessalonians. In these two chapters, identify the healthy concepts of relationships (discipleship). Notice 1 Thessalonians 2:8 – the NIV reads a bit easier, it says, We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us.
After reading 1 Thessalonians 1 & 2, read Ruth 1. Make note of how many times Naomi encouraged Ruth and Orpah to leave her. Naomi was persistent in her fight to journey alone. Naomi was persistent in fighting for ISOLATION. She threw every thing she could at Orpha and Ruth.
Orpah left, but Ruth put up her own fight. Read Ruth 1:16-17. Think about Ruth’s words to Naomi. Spend some time thinking through each phrase. What was the depth of her commitment? Notice in verse 18, even Naomi understand Ruth’s determination.
Ruth’s response is so strong and beautiful because it displays a character that runs deeper than woman or man. Ruth is displaying the character of God.
Close your time reading the following verses:
Psalm 139:7-10 Isaiah 41:10 Isaiah 43:1-3 Zephaniah 3:16-17
All these verses expose the steadfast love of God – His loyal presence and love, His faithful presence and compassion. Ruth lives for the glory of God, her joy, and Naomi’s benefit through her steadfast love for Naomi.
-CONSIDER & MEDITATE-
Spend time in pray reflecting on and thanking God for His steadfast love. Ask God to give you a heart to fight for relationships like Ruth fought for her relationship with Naomi. Ask God to bless The River with relationships that are formed and characterized by the steadfast love of God.
PRAYER & THANKSGIVING
- You as a follower of Christ.
- Your family.
- Your spiritual family – The River Family
- Your SS Class/Life Group
Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do His will, working in us that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.
Pray for your leaders:
Elders and Wives Eric & Anna Smeltzer Mike & Sandy Jaeger Wirt & Jeanie McKee Lonnie & Robin Robinson Will & Michelle van der Hoeven David & Tammy Small
Staff and Wives Jon & Gretchen Smeltzer Jordan & Kelsey Powers Luke & Sylvia Humphries