What can we learn from Ruth's actions about following godly counsel? Setting the Scene Ruth 3:6 — “So she went down to the threshing floor and did everything her mother-in-law had instructed her to do.” What Ruth Actually Did • Went immediately — no delay or argument • Followed Naomi’s plan in full detail • Entered an unfamiliar setting, trusting God with the outcome Why Her Response Matters • Shows humility: she placed Naomi’s wisdom above her own ideas • Demonstrates faith: obedience was her expression of trust in the Lord’s providence • Models teachability: she let an older, godly voice shape her choices Biblical Principles Reflected • Proverbs 12:15 — “A wise man listens to counsel.” • Proverbs 11:14 — “With many counselors there is deliverance.” • James 1:22 — “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” • Ephesians 6:1 — “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.” • Hebrews 13:17 — “Obey your leaders and submit to them.” Ruth’s actions illustrate every one of these truths in living color. Marks of Godly Counsel (Seen in Naomi) 1. Rooted in covenant faithfulness and Scripture’s values 2. Seeks another’s well-being, not personal gain 3. Moves toward righteousness, not compromise 4. Leaves room for God to act rather than forcing results How to Follow Ruth’s Example Today • Identify seasoned believers whose lives match their words • Measure counsel against the clear teaching of Scripture • Pray, then act promptly instead of stalling in analysis • Stay teachable: accept correction without resentment • Trust God with the results once you have obeyed The Ripple Effect of Obedience • Ruth’s single step placed her in the lineage of David and, ultimately, Messiah (Matthew 1:5–6) • One woman’s readiness to heed wise counsel became a conduit for God’s redemptive plan Takeaway Ruth’s swift, unhesitating obedience to Naomi’s godly counsel invites us to listen, trust, and act—believing that the Lord works powerfully through humble hearts that do what they are advised in line with His Word. |
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