“But Elimelech the husband of Naomi died … and both Mahlon and Chilion died, so that the woman was left without her two sons and her husband.” – Ruth 1:3a, 5 

Scripture reading: Deuteronomy 28:15-24

Things are bad now. So bad, that Naomi lost her name. Now she is just “the woman” (verse 5). That’s because now she is essentially empty. Elimelech died. Mahlon died. Chilion died. No male to carry on the family name. Not only had they left the Land of Promise, now there will be no children to continue their participation in the line of promise. It’s bad, but it shouldn’t be surprising. That’s because God had made very clear what the consequences of covenantal unfaithfulness would be. This is why we read those verses from Deuteronomy 28.

You have to wonder, is rescue and  redemption from such deep sinfulness even possible? Have you ever been at a place where you wondered that for yourself or even for someone you love? It’s a dark, dark place to be.

But see, that’s the surprise. The surprise is that there is more to this story. Because if redemption and rescue from this dark place wasn’t possible, then the story of Ruth would end at chapter 1:5. But, praise God, it doesn’t. There’s more to the story  – a whole lot more. Which means that redemption is a glorious possibility even from such a dark place.

So, if you are that low, or someone you know is all undone and unraveled because of sin, then hold out to them the wonderful possibility of redemption. Even if they feel like a nameless empty nobody, tell them that someone with the name Jesus specializes in redemption, in undoing our undoneness.

Suggestions for prayer

Pray for any one you know who appears to have abandoned their faith. Plead with God to rescue them. If you feel like you are in such a position yourself, pray the same prayer for yourself.

Since 2019, Rev. Rodney Vermeulen has served the Attercliffe Canadian Reformed Church near Dunnville, Ontario, Canada. He, his wife, children and grandchildren are deeply grateful for the blessing of daily living under the shelter of God’s wings. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.