Good Advice

As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him. Psalm 18:30 (NKJV)

I am glad that I paid so little attention to good advice; had I abided by it I might have been saved from some of my most valuable mistakes. -Edna St. Vincent Millay

Advice is never hard to find. After all, it is really asking for someone's opinion; something everyone is ready to give.

In Ruth chapter 1, Naomi is a widow and her two sons had recently died and left behind their wives. Naomi was in a foreign land and wished to return to Israel, her homeland. She encouraged her daughters-in-law, Ruth and Orpah, to remain in Moab, where they were born, and start their lives over again. Naomi thought it more likely they would find a husband if they remained in their homeland, even though it would add hardship to her life. She understood the culture and knew there were no other sons to marry them and provide for them. Her advice was very practical and she acted very selfless, only considering the needs of the daughters-in-law whom she loved.

Orpah chose to stay in Moab, but Ruth could not leave Naomi. She had learned of the one true God. Their bond was faith in God and they shared a mutual commitment. She spoke to Naomi the very familiar phrase, Wherever you go, I will go; and wherever you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God, my God.

The story ends in chapter four with Boaz marrying Ruth, ending the tragedy and misfortune of the two women. The events in Ruth's life were a part of God's preparations for the births of David and of Jesus, the promised Messiah.

If Ruth had taken the advice of her mother-in-law and remained in Moab, one could only imagine what the results would have been. However, Ruth followed what was in her heart and chose to stay with Naomi, demonstrating her faith in the God of Israel.

Naomi's advice was not bad advice, but it was not God's plan. When seeking good advice, look for trusted friends and family who demonstrate Godly character. It is wise to listen, but know and do what God is leading. God's way is perfect, as was demonstrated in Ruth's life. His word is proven; He is our shield when we trust in Him.

Lord, draw us so close to You that we fully trust what You are doing in our lives. We need to seek Your advice as we walk through each day. Thank You that You never leave us.

Janet Stutzman