On Sunday, October 30, 2022, Teaching Pastor Bruce Hess’ message was “Ruth Chapter 2” from our sermon series “God Behind the Seen”. Below are some questions for your personal or group reflection.
1. Think back—can you remember a time in your life where you felt like you were at “Wit’s End Corner?” [when you were truly at your “wit’s end”] Share some. How did God give you grace and lead you through it?
2. Bruce suggested one subtitle of the chapter could be, What a Difference a Day Makes. Have you ever experienced a “big turn-around” from one day to the next? Elaborate.
3. Another potential title for chapter 2 could be, The God Who Works in the Ordinary. What are some possible ways in our ordinary day where God can be at work? (for example, discussing with your kids what they learned in Sunday school, volunteering at school or at Wildwood, finding ways to get to know your neighbors). Make a list. Pray that God would inhabit those ordinary events.
4. Who might be a Naomi in your life (one who is facing difficult circumstances that could cause one to despair and grow bitter), or one who is a Ruth (unconnected and disadvantaged in life)? Brainstorm and pray about ways God could use you to express compassion and acceptance to them.
5. Boaz was in essence saying to Ruth, your reputation precedes you (which it usually does for all of us). In a humble way, what reputation issues in your life might the Holy Spirit be poking/convicting you about right now? Be transparent.
6. When is the last time you had the thought before the Lord: Why have I found favor in your sight? If it’s been a while, take some time to thank Him again for His mercy, grace, and faithfulness to you.
7. The story of Rahab clearly demonstrates that God can use even our painful experiences to shape us for ministry to others—He never wastes anything. Thank Him that there is purpose in your past even if you don’t fully understand yet what that means.
Never forget that God is at work IN us (Philip. 2:13), at work WITH us (Mark 16:20), and at work FOR us (Romans 8:28)