Empathy For Those In A Land Far From God

Speaker: Toby Soechting

Scripture: Ruth 1:1-22

INTRODUCTION:

1. “I went out full and the Lord has brought me home again empty.” (Ruth 1:21).
2. Empathy and sympathy are words closely associated and perhaps often confused.  Both are good elements of Christian character.

DISCUSSION:  

I. SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES.

1. The times were desperate (vv. 1-5).
2. There is always hope (vv. 6-15).
3. The best choice is clear (vv. 16-18).
4. There must be no turning back (vv. 19-22).

II. LEARNING OUR LESSONS.

1. Our times are no less desperate, and the “far country” does not have any real solutions!
2. We live in a world filled with all types of refugees.
3. Sometimes admitting or sharing our circumstances with others can open the door for greater good.
4. We must show people what we know, but also show them how much we care.
5. You can always come home to God (v. 22).

III. AWARE OF OUR APPLICATION.

1. Does little good to learn a lesson, but make no appication.
2. The church is perfect for carrying out the Lord’s work, and one of the most effective mechanisms in the church is for us to care about others.
3. There is a famine in the land, but we should stand amazed and energized by the grace of God our Father!
4. There has never been a greater need for this congregation to nurture current relationships, and foster new ones.  To do so will require greater empathy.

Conclusion:  Ruth made a choice that was very much about God, but her choice had its beginning in an earthen vessel named Naomi.  Naomi empathized with Ruth and Ruth with Naomi, and in the end, both returned to God.  May we be on the lookout for the Naomis and Ruths of our day.

Empathy For Those In A Land Far From God