How can we apply Naomi's confidence in God's plan to our lives today? Setting the scene “Wait, my daughter,” said Naomi, “until you find out how things will turn out; for the man will not rest until the matter is settled today.” – Ruth 3:18 Boaz had promised redemption, Ruth had obeyed, and Naomi rested in that promise. Her calm assurance flowed from believing that the Lord orchestrates every detail for His covenant people. What Naomi knew • God’s covenant faithfulness never wavers (Deuteronomy 7:9). • His laws made provision for the vulnerable through a kinsman-redeemer (Leviticus 25:25; Deuteronomy 25:5-10). • Boaz, a man of integrity, would finish what he started. • Therefore, waiting was not passive resignation but confident expectation. Lessons for us today 1. Trust the character of God, not the clarity of circumstances. • “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5). 2. Rest in His active care. • “We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God” (Romans 8:28). 3. Believe He will complete what He begins. • “He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6). 4. Wait with expectancy, not anxiety. • “Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for Him” (Psalm 37:7). 5. Anchor hope in revealed truth, not passing emotion. • “The grass withers, the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever” (Isaiah 40:8). Practical steps to cultivate Naomi-like confidence • Recall past faithfulness: keep a journal of answered prayers and providences. • Saturate your mind with Scripture promises; memorize key verses such as Psalm 27:14 and Lamentations 3:25. • Pray God’s attributes back to Him: His sovereignty, goodness, wisdom, and love. • Surround yourself with godly counsel who remind you of truth, just as Ruth had Naomi. • Act in obedience while you wait; Ruth gleaned in the fields before Boaz acted. • Speak words of faith instead of fear: voice the certainty that God is at work even when unseen. Encouraging promises to hold on to • Psalm 37:5 – “Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him, and He will do it.” • Isaiah 55:8-9 – “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the LORD.” • Hebrews 10:35-36 – “So do not throw away your confidence; it holds a great reward. You need to persevere, so that after you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised.” • James 1:2-4 – “The testing of your faith produces perseverance… so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing.” Closing thoughts Naomi’s calm instruction, “Wait, my daughter,” models a settled heart rooted in God’s unchanging plan. When we know the Redeemer will “not rest until the matter is settled,” we can lay down restless striving, trust His timetable, and watch Him bring His good purposes to completion. |
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