Faithful Friendship

The dark clouds of grief would not lift for so long. Everyone I loved had been taken from me, and my sadness had turned to anger. How could this happen? Did Jehovah, the God of Israel see me? If He did, why did He not intervene?

I pushed those who tried to help away. How could they ever understand what it was like to go through so much tragedy? Yet, there was one who stayed with me, even when I tried to send her away. We had spent much time talking about the wonder of a God who loved His people enough to give them laws to follow. We spoke of His miracles, of how He brought His people out of Egypt and left the entire enemy army drowned on the seashore. We marveled together at His care to feed His people in the wilderness and to supply gushing springs of water in the desert.

Before the death of my husband and sons, we spoke often of how we would return to the place where this kind God cared for His people; though for a time, the land had been left hungry. But one day soon, we would return together and introduce my sons’ wives to our friends and neighbors.

Sadly, it was not to be. My husband and sons’ graves mark the hillside in Moab. Jehovah has visited His people with bread again, but I will return to Bethlehem empty and alone.

My two daughters-in-law tried to join me. I convinced one to return to her gods and her family, but the other refused to leave my side. She seems sure that the Jehovah of Israel will accept her and care for both of us. There is nothing to lose. I will either die here or die there, but it matters little without my family.

I do not know how Ruth could stand my constant complaining, but she patiently listened and reminded me of the stories I had told her so long ago. I look back now and see how good Jehovah was to send this friend into my life to be His hands and feet. His love was reflected in her servant-hearted care, and she never gave up on me.

It was not long before my heart began to thaw from the cold, hard stone it had become. Her love ignited a hope in me that had been buried with my sons. My self-focus dissipated into a vision for Ruth’s future, and Jehovah’s plan wove together beautifully. Little Obed now dances on my lap, and sunshine has driven the dark clouds of grief away again. His parents gaze down at us and then glance at each other with a knowing smile. Jehovah has visited His people with so much grace once again.

One day my great, great grandson will pen words that perhaps he learned from the stories passed down from my lips.

A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. Proverbs 17:17

Love, Naomi

(For a more in depth understanding of Naomi’s story, read the book of Ruth, found in the Bible.)

Have you ever had a friend who walked with you through a dark time? Are you here today because of their faithful friendship? Have you thanked God for using a friendship to carry you through? Have you asked Him to help you to be that friend to someone else?

I am so thankful for faithful friends, aren’t you?

Erica B.