Points of Meditation & Reflection

Sermon Title & Text: “The Beginning of Barley Harvest” Ruth 1:19-22
2016 Teach. Reach. Love. Serve.
The Book of Ruth is the account of two women. One born pleasant but life events make her bitter. The other, was born in shame but clings to hope in God. Ultimately, God will demonstrate His value to those that seek His Redeemer.

1. The main characters of the Book of Ruth.
   a. Naomi – The main character. She is from Bethlehem but returns from Moab, empty.
   b. Ruth – Naomi’s daughter-in-law from Moab. Ruth is also a widow. But clings to Naomi & her God.
   c. Boaz – A close family member of Naomi’s in Bethlehem.

2. Bethlehem – “House of Bread”. Significant town, where Rachel was buried, David will be born, and Jesus is born.
   Moab – In Genesis 19, Abraham’s nephew, Lot has 2 sons, Moab and Ammon by his daughters.

3. Being from Moab, Ruth was from a shameful background, yet she leaves Moab with Naomi and adopts her God. What is the label or thought about where you are from? How has God overcome where you are from?

4. Naomi asks that her name be changed from Pleasant to Bitter. Outwardly she was pleasant. Inwardly she was bitter. From “bitter” God will provide a Redeemer to accomplish comfort and a long future. How do you trust Christ to Redeem what you have lost?

5. Spiritual Inventory: Both Ruth and Naomi arrive at the House of Bread at the start of the barley harvest. Whatever is next in your life it starts at the House of Bread. How is your time and life of devotion going to deepen or continue to grow in 2017? Whatever is next, are you moving toward deeper, more consistent prayer life. Whatever is next, are you reading your Bible passionately, curiously – daily. Is your time with God increasing the boldness of your witness and sharing the gospel with others.

Lord, we pray these notes and this message are a source of strength, guidance, and spiritual deepening for us all. Amen.

Edward