Now Elimelech, Naomi’s husband died, and she was left with her two sons. They married Moabite women one named Orpah and the other Ruth.”  Ruth 1:3

The name of Elimelech means God is King. I want to believe that this religious man believed that and wanted his family to be raised with the knowledge that God is King. When one is given a name like that they cannot hide their faith. In the country of Moab everybody knew what this man stood for. It was for that reason that the death of Elimelech was devastating for the family. What happens when the worst thing one can think of does occur? That was the feeling for Naomi and her two sons.

Sometimes it is difficult to figure out what God is doing in particular situations. Just consider a young family that has moved to a foreign land in search of greener pastures losing the breadwinner or the head of family. Naomi was too far away from relatives and other members of the religious community to receive the needed help. One cannot even imagine how anyone can even think that God was in the unfolding of events. But God says again and again “my ways are not your ways and my thoughts are not your thoughts”

None of us would have liked to be in the shoes of Naomi in Moab at this time. She had to be strong for her two boys and help them find their feet. At this point the thought of returning to Judah was not an option for Naomi. What was she going to tell relatives? How was she going to explain the death of her husband to relatives and friends? The prospects of living as a widow in Israel were not that attractive. She decided to make the best out of her situation in Moab.

There are many Christians who have been forced to live in situations that do not seem to be the best for them. The Elimelechs in their life have been removed. They have been forced by circumstances to live a sub optimal Christian life. This may be the time to seek the face of the Lord and ask God for direction and wisdom to make the right decisions. We know that the Lord we serve is merciful and is working in our situations to make something beautiful happen.

We are called during such moments to turn our eyes to the hills and seek the help that comes from the Lord who made heaven and earth. We are asked to walk by faith and not by sight.

Blessings