✨ Be Like Ruth ✨
I just finished reading the Book of Ruth, and it hit me in a way I wasn't expecting. We always hear that "blood is thicker than water," but Ruth and Naomi are the ultimate proof that family can be a choice. Ruth had no biological obligation to Naomi after her husband died. She could have walked away to find an easier life, but she chose to stay in the middle of the grief, the poverty, and the mess. She didn't just offer "thoughts and prayers", she rolled up her sleeves and walked through the storm with her.
It made me stop and realize how thankful I am for the "Ruths" in my own life. The people who don’t run when things get complicated, who don’t judge your bitter seasons, and who stick by you when you feel like you have nothing left to offer. We all have those seasons where we feel like Naomi where life has dealt some hard blows and we feel bitter or empty. Then you have your own community of men and women who love you through your mess. What a blessing that is not only for me, but for you.
If you have people in your life who chose you not because they had to, but because they love you, please don’t take them for granted. True family is built in the hard times, not just the good ones. To the people who have been my "Ruth" when I felt like I was losing it all, thank you for staying. You are the greatest blessing I could ever ask for.
Reading the Book of Ruth reminded me deeply about the strength found in chosen family and unwavering loyalty. Ruth’s vow in Ruth 1:16 — "Don't urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God" — captures the essence of true commitment beyond biological ties. It’s a powerful reminder that faith in action isn’t passive; it requires us to walk with others through their darkest moments, not just offer distant support. In my own life, I’ve experienced seasons when I felt like Naomi: overwhelmed by loss and uncertainty, unsure if anyone would stay by my side. During those times, the Ruths in my life became my anchors. They showed me that real family is built not in times of ease, but when life gets messy and hard. They didn’t judge me or shy away; they stood with me, offering their presence and love without conditions. What stands out most about Ruth is her deliberate choice to embrace Naomi’s people and God, turning grief and poverty into a journey of faith. This story encourages me to be equally intentional about the relationships I invest in. It’s easy to walk away when things are tough, but choosing to stay and bear each other’s burdens deepens our bonds and enriches our lives. For anyone going through difficult seasons, I encourage you to lean into your community and appreciate those who remain faithful through thick and thin. Likewise, strive to be a "Ruth" for someone else—a steadfast companion who walks through storms together. This kind of love and loyalty brings hope and healing, reminding us that family truly can be the people who choose to stay.