Lay It on Me

W HEN THE U NEXPECTED H APPENS / 21

Naomi heard always moved her. By examining Naomi's reaction to circumstances, we learn two valuable lessons. First, never assume that the obvious thing is the right thing. We should always seek to know what God's will is in any situation. Second, never take advice from a bitter person. They could give you the wrong counsel. their thinking is blurred and their faith is weak. Naomi reasoned, I cannot have any more sons. If I could, my daughters-in-law would be too old to marry them. Ruth and Orpah need to stay here. Since Ruth and Orpah were familiar with the surroundings, Naomi wanted them to stay. Naomi wanted to enter Bethlehem alone in order to demonstrate how lonely and isolated her life had become. As the story continued to unfold, however, the two young women make two completely different choices. Thank God, Ruth felt a connection with Naomi. Ruth remembered the joy when Mahlon, Naomi's son, was engaged to her. She recalled Naomi talking about a possible grandson, and describing how the wedding would be a giant celebration. Ruth knew that Naomi needed healing. Ruth knew a little girl was locked up inside of this bitter woman. She knew that Naomi longed to have a grandchild bouncing on her knee. Ruth wanted to be a part of Naomi's life. She yearned to see Naomi the way she was before this triple tragedy struck in her life. This factor distinguishes Ruth from Orpah. Orpah was