1 Samuel 1-4

Eli was a poor leader. He allowed his sons, Hophni and Phineas, to abuse God’s people and serve their own interests rather than God’s. For this God allowed the army to be severely defeated, his sons lost their lives, and the Ark of the Covenant fell into the hands of the Philistines. Upon hearing this news, he fell back and died from a broken neck.

When a national leader lets his children serve only their self interests, he too is setting himself up for a shameful reputation. God will raise up those who will honor His name and truly serve the people.

Ruth

Joseph, Mary’s husband, had a prostitute and a Moabite in his bloodline. Still, God used him to raise Jesus in his home and give Him a family heritage.

Who are YOU? Are there questionable things in your family’s “Hall of Shame?” You are in the company of King David and KING JESUS.

Ruth

Boaz declared to Ruth, “I already know you are a woman of noble character.”

Ruth’s reputation preceeded her. She established it by putting the interests and well-being of Naomi ahead of hers.

Self-serving = low character.

Serving needs of others = noble character.

Ruth 2

As of yesterday, Patty and I have been married 55 years. No bragging here … but God has BLESSED me.

God brought Boaz into Ruth’s life and the rest was history. I always encourage young people to be on a path whereby they’re doing the right thing … and God will bring the right mate to them.

I was attending a tent revival and Patty was standing on stage holding a flag as she participated in an evangelistic skit. I always say, “I LIKE the way she held that flag!”

Ruth 1

It must have been nearly unbearable for Naomi to lose her husband and both sons. Fortunately God gave her the Moabitess daughter-in-law, Ruth, who became a cog in the bloodline of David and Christ Jesus Himself.

God can turn your sorrow into joy. In faith, cling to the Hope that God’s plan is at work, and that your suffering will not have been in vain. “Weeping may endure for the night, but joy comes in the morning.” (Ps. 30:5]

Judges 21

In my old age, I become more and more against the foolishness and tragedy of war. So many young men are called upon to expose themselves to death and destruction, often for the sake of self-serving ideologies. Defense is one thing, but covetous aggression is vain.

The weapons of OUR warfare are not carnal, but they are mighty through God. Saints, we pray and praise our way to peace and victory.