As You Say Goodbye

Wow, I can honestly say that 2016 has been a year of life changing experiences for me. I’ve experienced some major firsts. I got to speak at my very first women’s conference and completed my first book that is now in the publication stages. Not to mention letting go and letting God, as I stepped out on faith by leaving my job of 10 years to pursue ministry full time. My family also suffered the loss of a great matriarch, my husband’s grandmother. Our life has changed dramatically since her passing. Some of the changes have been just what we've needed and some… well, I’ll just say it has definitely been an adjustment. However, I move in faith every day and believe me, some days are harder than others.

Remember the book of Ruth? Ruth was the loyal daughter-in-law of Naomi, who herself was already a widow. When Ruth’s husband died Naomi insisted that Ruth go back to her family; however, Ruth refused to leave her mother-in-law. You see, Ruth and her husband never had a child. He died before they had an opportunity to conceive. It would have been so easy for Ruth to do as Naomi had insisted, which was go back to the home of her mother so the LORD could bless her once more with a husband. However, her love and loyalty to her mother-in-law was so great that she stayed with her as they returned to Bethlehem (1:16-18). After returning to Bethlehem with her mother-in-law, Ruth continued to show her respect for Naomi by listening to every word of advice given by her (3:1-5). Ruth’s spirit and character made her so attractive that Boaz, the kinsman-redeemer, noticed Ruth and took her as his wife (2:11; 3:10-13). It was through their family line that King David and Jesus was born.

I remind you of the book of Ruth because there are some very important life lessons there for you to realize. You see, not only was Ruth’s vow to Naomi one of the most beautiful statements of commitment in Scripture, it was also Ruth’s obedience to God that brought to her life an abundance of rich rewards. Beauty can be found during the most difficult times. Be still and accept God’s will for your life. Of course you may not always understand the reason for the road traveled, but remember, God reveals all in His time for you. The journey is the very thing that strengthens and prepares you for the outcome so that you are truly able to see and receive the blessings as they are placed before you. No matter what you’ve gained or loss in 2016, I hope you will look back on everything and realize it was all for God’s greater purpose in your life. The one thing that will always ring true is the truth in knowing God will never place more on us than we can handle. Yes, I know it may not always feel as if you’re strong enough to handle what God has thrown your way my sisters but you are.