021 BBB: Judges 18-21 & Ruth 1-4

As the heart war rages during the time of the Judges of Israel there is precious little to be excited about.

“In those days there was no king in Israel; every man did what was right in his own eyes.” – Judges 17:6

Ruth is a spiritual bright spot:

Then she said, “Behold, your sister-in-law has gone back to her people and her gods; return after your sister-in-law.” But Ruth said, “Do not urge me to leave you or turn back from following you; for where you go, I will go, and where you lodge, I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God. Where you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. Thus may the LORD do to me, and worse, if anything but death parts you and me.” – Ruth 1:15-17

Much is considered about the hard conditions women have faced through-out history. Not so in Israel, where women were treated with dignity and respect. Jesus Himself constructed His inner circle with women. Ruth brings light and beauty of heart into a very dark time in Israel’s history. She gives all women hope – in any culture – that by choosing refuge under the wings of God Most High there will be honor and reward.

As Peter said, “The same goes for you husbands: Be good husbands to your wives. Honor them, delight in them. As women they lack some of your advantages. But in the new life of God’s grace, you’re equals. Treat your wives, then, as equals so your prayers don’t run aground.” (1 Peter 3 in the Message)

This is how we have chosen and learned to live – and it works!
Dave & Burnadette