LESSON 29: DECISION IN TIMES OF TROUBLE

Text: Ruth 1:1–22

1. RELOCATION

The events recorded in the book of Ruth took place during the time of the judges in Israel. The story shows how true love for God and righteous living can exist in days when the culture in general has become immoral, corrupt, and against God’s righteous standard.

Today, many families still travel from one country to another and settle down temporarily or permanently. One of the reasons for this is to find a better and more comfortable life. Although Elimelech’s family passed through many trials, after all the troubles, God showed His faithfulness in fulfilling His purpose for the family. Always commit your ways into God’s hands through prayers; He will guide you aright.

WITHOUT PRAYERFUL CONSIDERATION

Texts: Ruth 1:1–2; Job 5:20

The problem of famine and hunger in Israel made Naomi and her husband Elimelech leave Bethlehem-Judah to an idolatrous country called Moab. The famine affected everyone in Bethlehem-Judah, and they thought the best solution was to relocate.

However, they did not pray to know the mind of God before moving. They went with their two sons, Mahlon and Chilion, who later married two women from Moab—Ruth and Orpah. Unfortunately, Elimelech died, and soon after, both sons also died, leaving Naomi with her daughters-in-law.

God wants us to pray and seek His face before taking any step in life. The decision you make today will determine your future and destiny. Therefore, it is important to seek God’s counsel before taking major decisions—like travelling, choosing a course or career, selecting a school, or choosing friends.

2. RESULT OF ELIMELECH’S WRONG DECISION

Texts: Ruth 1:3–5

Elimelech’s relocation to escape famine was a great mistake and an unprofitable venture. His focus was on the physical, not the spiritual. Thus, he missed out on God’s purpose and led his family into sorrow. The family’s decision was hasty. The children could have influenced their parents to wait for God’s divine direction.

There were also cases of famine during the patriarchs’ time. Abraham experienced famine and moved to Egypt, where he fell into temptation (Genesis 12:1–18). During Isaac’s time, God instructed him to stay where he was, and his obedience brought blessing and prosperity. God has promised to feed us even in famine. We must trust and wait patiently on Him.

3. RESTORATION AND RECOVERY THROUGH FAITH

Texts: Ruth 1:6–22; Hebrews 11:6

Naomi’s family tragedy made her realize she should return to Bethlehem-Judah, where God’s blessings were. She heard that God had visited His people with food. While in Moab, she faced many troubles—losing her husband and sons—but continued to serve God.

Naomi’s need was not only food; she longed for true worship of God. Her godly character influenced her daughters-in-law, who both desired to follow her. After some persuasion, Orpah went back to her people and idols, but Ruth made a choice that changed her destiny for good.

Her declaration has become a guiding principle for all who desire to serve God faithfully:

“And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God.” – Ruth 1:16

LESSON

It is dangerous to neglect God’s counsel in our daily decisions. Naomi’s decision and Ruth’s choice led them to a blissful and rewarding future. They came into the land of blessing and rest.

Heaven is a place Christ has prepared for His friends (John 14:1–3). To follow Jesus and enjoy God’s blessings, every sinner or backslider must repent, forsake sin, ask for cleansing through Jesus’ blood, and make Him Saviour and Lord.

We must live holy, obey God’s word, and serve Him daily. Like Ruth clave to Naomi, we must cleave to Jesus Christ until the end.

MEMORY VERSE

“And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God.” — Ruth 1:16

THOUGHT

I will wait upon God to receive counsel and direction in all I do.

CONGREGATIONAL SONG

GHS 2 – “Come Unto Me”

CHORUSES

1. I am a stranger in this world.

2. We are marching on to the victorious city, goodbye Satan.

3. Until I reach my home.

QUESTIONS

1. Why did Elimelech and Naomi leave Bethlehem-Judah for Moab?

2. What happened to Elimelech’s family in Moab?

3. Mention two reasons Naomi decided to return to Bethlehem-Judah.

4. Who returned with Naomi to Bethlehem-Judah?

5. What should sinners or backsliders do to return to God?

ACTIVITY

Search the Bible and find one person who experienced famine. Write the passage and the instruction God gave to that person.

HOMEWORK

Search the Scriptures to find four people (2 from the Old Testament and 2 from the New Testament) who undertook a journey. Write their names, the places they travelled to, their mission, and the Bible passages.

BIBLE WORD SEARCH

Find the meaning of these words (use a dictionary):

1. Decision

2. Recovery

3. Destiny

4. Determination

5. Restoration