The foundation of things is the Lord, who created everything from nothing. God is the Origin of our life and our return to fellowship with Him. Everything that the Creator has done, including salvation and the call to be part of the Body of Christ, are perfect works. The revelations of His Word are the best we could ever have, for they bring us back to God and cleanse us from sin (John 15.3).

Not a single vice, no matter how small, can be found in the work of human salvation. Those who have lived in crime will be redeemed in such a way that no stain of their past life will remain. God does the same for people who have fallen and left the life of adultery and prostitution, making them examples to others (2 Corinthians 5.17; 1 Corinthians 6.9-11). God's work is perfect, so those forgiven by the Lord can rise to the highest positions!

The Most High has His paths and allows us to walk in them. Every revelation that comes from Him is a new path for us to walk in. The way we understand it is how we should go to God in times of crisis. Thus, He will bless us in a great way. Never let doubt hover in your mind; after all, it is one of the deadliest weapons that darkness uses to keep you away from your heavenly Father. Believe what He tells you in the Word!

God would not show anyone a path that is not something that He has carried out. Therefore, everyone can trust in God's guidance. When the Lord tells you that you have been forgiven (1 John 1.9), believe with all your heart, because the devil will use all means to make you lose your faith. He who doubts God calls Him a liar, so never let your mouth cause your heart to sin. To believe in God is to believe in His Word!

The Lord is the Truth, the pure reality of things (John 14.6; Colossians 1.17). What He says is completely holy. So, stand up as the Word instructs. In God there is much more than you need to claim any prominent position in life. The person called by God will be prepared to be an example of purification by the One without any trace of evil in His composition.

In all the sentences issued by God there is justice, for He will never take away from those who own the truth their right (Psalm 145.17). Therefore, live blamelessly so as not to lose your chance to shine in a dark world, being an example to others (Philippians 2.15). The Father acts with equity, being the greatest example, we have in life. Never give the devil a chance to take you away from God's presence. In Him you will be fulfilled!

The Almighty is the righteous Judge who never lets Himself be corrupted, whose work is perfect. In Him there is justice for the wronged and honor to fulfill the divine promises. This will rejoice those who trust in the Word. God is upright, He does not bend or stoop to the unjust and workers of iniquity, except to give them forgiveness when they repent. He is the Savior!

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares

The message concerning the glorious Name of Jesus, which is the Name of God, was extremely sound and important, and there was no one to reveal it to the people of those days. Christ did the work, as He spoke to the Father: And I have declared to them Your name, and will declare it, that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them (John 17.26). Such a message brings divine love to the sick and sinful!

With the Name of Jesus, those who believe in God and serve Him can rebuke the forces of evil, ordaining their departure from the afflicted and other lost (Mark 16.16). God's love delivers us from any evil involvement, as we know the Truth (John 8.32). Evil traps are undone in a split second, when the saved take their place in the Savior, the Almighty (Matthew 28.18). Love that Name!

A person may live in darkness, but if you bring to them the power of the Name of Christ, who is truly God, they will be delivered from any evil. When someone hears about this Name, their spirit is strengthened by the Lord, who can give them the blessing they need (Philippians 2.9-11). This knowledge needs to be proclaimed in every place taken over by wickedness!

God said that He would proclaim the Name of the Lord, because it would be a new thing that no one had known and that would bring deliverance. Today, we must study what the ancients achieved by using this Name, which is blessed forever. Then we will see divine power in action. With such authority, we cast out demons and the sicknesses they bring (Luke 10.19). Use the Name of the Lord!

Moses said that we must give God greatness, and this means that one must use the holy Name against the evil that troubles him; the power of the Lord will destroy the evil force, leading everyone to obtain the freedom they need. The Name of Jesus is the greatest weapon that human beings have ever seen, because by using It firmly and in faith, you will find that the evil one will not resist.

Do you want to get rid of the adversities that surround you? Believe in the Word and you will see the glory that comes with using the Name that is above every name. He is greater than cancer or any other suffering. Every knee will bow before the majesty of the Most High. So, respect the Name that will bring you victory over the onslaughts of the evil one. Be brave and be victorious!

Do you want to please God and speak about the power of Jesus' Name? You will hear that many will be amazed at what He can do. Peter spoke to the paralytic: [...] “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.” (Acts 3.6).

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares

To know the Bible should be the goal of our lives. Without it, we will never receive what we need. What God says is of utmost importance for the saved person, as well as for every human being. We do not talk about meaningless things. The Scriptures bring the certainty that His revelations come from Heaven for our benefit. But Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God (Luke 4.4).

No one who is hasty can learn everything in a short time; after all, the teaching of Truth comes like raindrops. Little by little, one notices that the former lost one is living better, then everyone will acknowledge that this method is effective. No one can accuse the Lord of not having shown what is necessary for man to live in peace. Truth distills like dew by an act of the sovereign Lord.

In the moment of tribulation, when everything apparently seems to be lost, the demons sent by hell to work against our happiness work much harder than in other times when we seem to be at peace. Satan and the evil spirits work tremendously hard to instill in us that God doesn't love us, that He has forsaken us or doesn't want to help us. That’s a complete lie! The Lord will never forsake us!

In times of tribulation, there is only one way out: to stand firm in the faith we have received by hearing the Word. Remember: in the most difficult moments when evil attacks you, the Almighty speaks as follows: God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46.1). With Him by our side, we will not be left alone. If we believe, we will rebuke the enemy and demand his departure!

It is good to be present in church, especially on Sundays. Then, in the twinkling of an eye, using the Name of Jesus to ordain the evil that attacks us to leave, we will see how much He loves and helps us. So be in communion with God, the One and Only, so that you will not stumble over the stones placed before you. The Lord is the very present Help in times of trouble. He never fails!

Try to have the cloud of promises over your head and in the hour of tribulation - pray with the strength of a giant or invincible warrior. God is in the midst of the mighty, who are clothed with His power and instruction: God stands in the congregation of the mighty; He judges among the gods (Psalm 82.1). Walking in fellowship with the Lord is the best thing a person can do, because He will keep him from any harm.

God's teaching drops as the rain, which soaks the earth and prepares it to receive the seed. This seed, once planted under normal conditions, will produce a great harvest. In the same way, be the good soil that will produce thirty, sixty, or one hundredfold (Mark 4.20), for each seed of faith that the Most High plants in your heart.

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares

God informed the spirit world, angels, and men that He had created everything and gave instructions on how they should proceed. The Scriptures record the will of the Creator. He loved His creation and gave it precise instructions as to what it was allowed to do. Thus, no one would be lost, but would fulfill the Lord's command intended for all (Psalms 33.4-9). Inside each one is a pointer showing right and wrong (Romans 2.15,16).

After having elaborated the plan for man, the Most High made it known to the angels, who carry out the divine orders, obeying the voice of the Word of the Lord (Psalm 103.20). They never do anything because we ask or determine; they only operate when we give voice to the Holy Book. Therefore, whoever meditates on what God says and believes in it obtains the blessings He has planned from the beginning. It is written!

No statement that comes out of the Lord’s mouth is empty of power. He expressed Himself in the following way: So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; it shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it (Isaiah 55.11). When you understand the Bible, know that the Most High's part has been finished and yours has begun; so, take hold of what you have been told.

As you understand the Scriptures, declare that it is yours and have faith that God's power is working on your behalf: Jesus said to her, “Did I not say to you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?” (John 11.40). People who are not taught to believe the biblical way miss out on the blessings they so desperately need. If Christ said so, why not follow His guidance, if He is the only Way? Jesus is the Word of God (Revelation 19.13).

The man who trusts in the heavenly Father gives the voice that the angels wait for to accomplish what is in the Word (Hebrews 1.14). This is how the Lord commanded and the work was done. Christ declared: “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father. (John 14.12). Don’t hesitate to take possession of what is already yours. Ordain with faith and see the promises become real!

 The angels are God's agents commissioned to help us at all times, leading us to experience the reality of what the Father has commanded to be done: The angel of the Lord encamps all around those who fear Him, and delivers them (Psalm 34.7). Those who do not respect the Most High miss out on the chance to get rid of their problems. The Word takes the absent place of Jesus in our midst. Respect and obey it!

We hear the Word sent to us as we meditate on the records of the Holy Book. They contain the exact answer to the difficulties we face: Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” Whenever you turn to the right hand Or whenever you turn to the left (Isaiah 30.21).

           In Christ, with love,

           R. R. Soares

The greatest wealth a person can gain is faith in the Lord. Naomi was a daughter of God, so she knew the Law of Moses. She taught her daughter-in-law how to take possession of what was hers. Because she married Naomi's son, Ruth became heir to the promises made to Abraham. She knew that Boaz was the kinsman redeemer, and justice would be done to her, because she had exchanged her gods for the Most High.

Ruth was humble and married Mahlon, a descendant of Jacob, and this made her worthy to be blessed by the Lord. She acted by faith when she chose to stay with her mother-in-law and reached the position that every woman of Israel would have liked to have had - that of ancestor of King David and of Christ. Her name is in the annals of eternity. Converts to Jesus become members of His Body!

The first time Boaz saw her, he immediately showed interest in her. When Jesus saw us, He immediately loved us. This happens to those who hear the Word and surrender to the Lord, becoming the righteousness of God in Christ (2 Corinthians 5.21). What a glory to be a child of the Almighty and beloved Lord, a member of the Body of Christ, and possessor of the promises made to Abraham and those delivered by the Savior Himself (Galatians 3.9). Thank You, Lord!

To gain full access to the promises of the Most High, everyone needs to obey the biblical commandments. This has all been programmed for you. So don't let your opportunity slip away. Being the righteousness of God in Christ, you will be delivered from the evils sent by the devil to those who have not yet come out from under his authority. Jesus did what was missing to give us life in abundance (John 10.10). Now we have to believe in order to live free!

Boaz was clear in speaking to Ruth: Do not go to glean in another field. This word is for those who are born into the Kingdom of God when they receive Jesus as their Savior. In the field of faith granted by the Lord, success is waiting for us. In the Gospel, there is more than you may need; just serve the Father by faith and by it - take hold of His declarations on your behalf. Awaken and possess the love of God!

Ruth could not go beyond a certain point; otherwise, it would spoil the divine plan to be revealed to her. Day by day, reading the Bible or listening to the preaching of the Word, you know what belongs to you. Every time this happens, make your claim and ordain that your need will be met. Then, believe! By doing everything right, the promise will be fulfilled (Mark 11.23).

She was to join the young women who worked for Boaz. Similarly, we are to join the servants of the Kingdom of God. Such fellowship will do you much good. Saved people should not feel strange about the Heavenly Father's statements in His Book. He says: All that I have is yours (Luke 15.31b).

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares

God's foreknowledge is notorious, wonderful, and providential, for it shows that He protects us at all times (Psalm 46.7,11). The Lord already knew what we would go through in our existence and made us capable of facing any danger, without losing track of how to act in order to be victorious. He has accompanied our gestation process, from before the fertilization of the egg by the sperm (Psalm 139.13-16). Believe!

God planned us before the creation of the universe even began. Therefore, we don't need to fear tomorrow; sufficient for the day is its own trouble. The Lord's eye is on us 24 hours a day. Therefore, never be shy or afraid of the enemy. God, our Friend, is unquestionably stronger than all adversaries put together. He will protect us and use us for His glory. Believing in God, we will succeed!

The Most High demanded that Moses pay attention to the model of the tabernacle that would be built in the desert, for it had to be the same as the one in Heaven (Exodus 25.40). By making us in His image and likeness, God has enabled us to see what we need and to emerge victorious from the most difficult battles (Genesis 1.26,27). When we are in the spirit, we are able to bless those who need help. We must trust in the Lord. He is our Strength!

Likewise, when Moses wrote the Law, he had to be faithful in all that he was told. The Most High commanded, and immediately His servant obeyed. If we need help, we only need to tell God, and the solution will come from Him. His directions are recorded in the Bible, nothing was omitted (2 Peter 1.20,21). The Word will make us overcome (2 Timothy 3.16,17).

We are limited by what is in the Scriptures, not by what we want to do, be, or have. We must never go beyond them, whose revelation will be given to us by the Holy Spirit (2 John 9). Walking with Jesus, we will always overcome. Never let yourself be carried away by discouragement or fear. The Lord assures us that if we do not fear evil, it will not touch us (1 John. 4:16-18; 5:18). God is perfect in His doings and has created the law of the kinsman Redeemer - Christ.

Boaz was a kinsman redeemer, so he married Ruth (Deuteronomy 25:5-10). You see, the Scriptures must be read carefully, so that we do not miss any blessings. Naomi taught Ruth what to do to marry Boaz, a symbol of Jesus. She said yes to her mother-in-law and legally became an ancestor of King David and the Lord Jesus himself (Ruth 4.13-22; Matthew 1.5-16). Ruth not only entered the congregation, but also the world of God's promises. What about you?

 Ruth was rewarded for accepting the Lord as her God and serving Him, despising the false gods of her country. The Most High had already written this romance before He began the creation of all things. According to Naomi, Boaz was a brave and mighty man, coming from the root of Elimelech, Ruth's father-in-law. Jesus is the Brave and Mighty Man!

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares

When Adam was created, he went through a strict quality control by the Creator. The Lord said that what he had made was good, complete and perfect (Genesis 1.31). However, as he walked through "other lands", he sinned and was expelled from the garden of Eden, because he was no longer fit to live there (Genesis 3). Adam brought to his descendants the weakness of corruption at all levels. You can no longer find a person from whom you can say you are free from any suffering.

The couple Elimelech and Naomi left full. Judging from what Naomi said, they sold their possessions and went trading where there was prosperity. However, the father and two sons died of diseases. The wife returned with nothing, but the daughter-in-law proved to be her friend. Why are people influenced by the world and not by the Word of God? Many live outside of it.

Now, Naomi was no longer the "Pleasant One", but Mara - the "Bitter One". It is hard to believe that the enemy managed to destroy this family that, fleeing from famine, returned home with nothing. She also blamed the Lord, who must have reminded her of the dangers of going to a foreign land after money. There, she saw that the God of Israel was not worshiped, but strange gods, invented by the people. What to do?

Did the drought last ten years and even with her husband dead, she didn't think of returning to Bethlehem? Like a casino gambler who loses every last penny, she and her children gambled until the last chip was gone. When she saw that there was only one alive, she continued in the casino of error and when she opened her eyes, she was without the resources to negotiate where the Lord was not accepted.

The worst of sins is when a person allows evil spirits to use her, and that’s exactly what the devil wants. Those who resort to them pay dearly for their error (Deuteronomy 18:9-14). Only the faithful can call upon the Lord and be heard. Unfortunately, many claim to be saved, but live in sin (Isaiah 59.1-3). Everywhere, we see people ignoring the Scriptures, as to the covenants made with unclean spirits, and this is a serious transgression.

Some cannot wake up from this nightmare. Even upon hearing about the wickedness of these entities, they still believe that sweet water will come out of the bitter fountain. Naomi acknowledged that she left with resources, but the adventure outside of good counsel emptied her purse. This story has been repeated in the lives of many. Now, when God does not run a business, the price will be too high. In the Gospel, there is freedom. Be vigilant!

It was Naomi's conscience that testified against her bad attitude, not God. She was not the master of her life, but the Lord was, who rescued Israel from captivity in Egypt. Whoever does not bow before the Truth will live defeated at all times. Cry out!

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares

In her rebellion against God, who certainly forgave her, Naomi saw that the Lord sees more than man, so He does not take into account the words spoken when facing a crisis. He knows our structure, but because He loves us, He even calls us to do His work, knowing that we may falter (Psalm 103.14). But we have to prepare ourselves for the evil days, so that when they come, we will be faithful witnesses of the Most High (Revelation 2.13).

Naomi's family ventured into a foreign nation with different laws, gods, and customs. Converts who decide to go to non-Christian countries begin to follow other laws and unwittingly also serve other gods. Such worldly customs will soon make them subjects of the kingdom of evil. It is not good to associate with those who are not of the kingdom of God, making them partners or spouses (2 Corinthians 6.14-18).

When she was called by her name, Naomi (which in the Hebrew language means "Pleasant") showed the trauma she was carrying inside herself. So, she asked to be called Mara, a short name for "bitter." Her mistake was to say that the Almighty caused her great bitterness. Now, God does not command anyone to go to one place or the other, nor to marry such a person. However, if we pray, He guides!

Until that day, little was known of God's character compared to what we know today. In the law of freedom - the Gospel - things are different. Now, if they had asked the Lord for guidance, He would have guided them in the best way to overcome the drought that devastated the land of Israel. Everywhere, there are always problems with climate, violence and people who do not serve the Lord properly. We must seek God's help.

A person who goes out into the world unprepared may face difficulties that he or she would not even imagine. In Brazil we know the laws, but in other nations some prejudice may arise. The language will be a challenge that can be overcome; all you have to do is study to master it well; otherwise, you can be deceived by malicious individuals. In the case we have studied, Naomi's husband and children died due to diseases (Ruth 1.1-5).

It was divine love that made Naomi hear that God had visited Israel, and now there were rains and therefore, harvests. Where the weather goes well, when the harvests come, everyone has what to spend and what to benefit from. Whoever keeps the statutes becomes wise, with understanding (Deuteronomy 4. 5,6). There is nothing better than serving the Lord and walking in His holy presence. Do God's will to be successful! That's what settles it!

The following days would be precious. The harvest was coming, and the law in Israel guaranteed the livelihood of the poor (Leviticus 19:9,10; Deuteronomy 24:19-21). Since Naomi arrived with her daughter-in-law with practically nothing, they could expect that the Lord would help them in what they had to do. There is no use in imagining things, but we must follow the directions of the Holy Scriptures.

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares

The Pleasant one came to her land. Naomi had gone out with her husband and two sons, but had returned alone with her Moabite daughter-in-law. Upon hearing the news of what had happened to her family, everyone was moved, and they certainly also helped Naomi in whatever way they could to establish herself in the city. There, the Lord would show her that there was something in her going to Moab that she did not even suspect, and the focus was her daughter-in-law, who stayed with her.

The Lord's plans are beyond our capacity, and we can only understand them if we have His help. Those who submit to God in the accomplishment of His will, most certainly, will be well rewarded. Therefore, never murmur against Him for the bad things that happen. God loves us: And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose (Romans 8.28).

The union of mother-in-law and daughter-in-law was perfectly planned in Heaven. They got along as if they were mother and daughter. It is sad to see daughters of God not getting along well with their husband's mother. The number of sons-in-law who don't like their mother-in-law is small. A mother-in-law is like a second mother, and therefore, should be respected. Some Christians forget that the devil is the slanderer of the children of God. Set fire on the evil one!

The walk to Bethlehem must have been a little shorter, because one helped the other in some way, by chatting amicably. Certainly, Naomi thought about what the people of her homeland would say about her, but trusting in the Lord, she faced her fate without fearing what they might say. The welcome given to Naomi simply renewed her strength. It’s good to be supportive of people who have had traumatic experiences.

Everything indicated that her future would be difficult. Perhaps, before leaving for Moab, her husband had sold his portion of land, so it would not be returned to her until the Jubilee year. However, the person who trusts God knows that He does not forsake those who are faithful to Him (Leviticus 25.8-10; Psalm 9.10). Never forget this promise: No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life; as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you nor forsake you (Joshua 1.5).

How thrilled Naomi must have been to see that she was arriving in Bethlehem. Everything was still the same as it was on the day of her departure. Her heart must have been beating fast. People would certainly ask how her husband and children were doing, and the answer would silence even the most talkative. It is not easy to leave with hope and come back without it, but everything works out for the good of those who love God. The Lord is great in everything!

Naomi must also have been thrilled to see how loved she was by everyone. She had gone out in search of the best, but she had lost her family. Feeling the weight of life alone was not easy; however, since she was a woman of faith, she would take the victory lap!

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares

Naomi opened her heart and showed that she was too old to have a husband. Even if there was such a hope and she had children, the daughters-in-law would not wait until one of them grew up. The mother-in-law completed the trial, saying that it would be harder for her than for those girls (Ruth 1.12,13), declaring that God's hand unloaded against her. The women wept, and Orpah showed what was in her heart.

Orpah and Ruth grieved, but they made different decisions. Orpah kissed her mother-in-law and returned to her people, but Ruth clung to Naomi even more. The last trial made the difference. Naomi stated: Look, your sister-in-law has gone back to her people and to her gods; return after your sister-in-law (verse 15). Ruth's answer was as forceful as possible. She was determined to go with her mother-in-law to the end.

Ruth said: Entreat me not to leave you or to turn back from following after you; for wherever you go, I will go; and wherever you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God, my God (verse 16). She continued: Where you die, I will die, and there will I be buried. The Lord do so to me, and more also, if anything but death parts you and me (verse 17). I would have liked to have seen Naomi's tears!

Christians must learn to walk with God, without being guided by their hearts (Jeremiah 17.9). Now, the Lord always uses His Word to speak to us. Even without having prayed for guidance, if we have paid attention to the pastor's message, we will see that in previous services, the Almighty answered us, giving us the solution to the problems that we would still present to Him. This happens because God loves us. He is amazing!

Many times, we don't understand why we don't have answers to our prayers, because we cry and feel nothing. It’s good to give attention to the preaching of the Word. Possibly, the answer will come before the prayer. So, never let your mind wander to other matters. Stay tuned to what the Lord will speak to the Church. Those who truly serve God - receive guidance from what is not yet seen!

Ruth got top marks. Jesus expects this of each of us as we are tested. For Naomi, there was no doubt what was in Ruth's heart. The trials justified that she was ready not only to be her companion, but also to be great-grandmother to King David, who would be born to her and her kinsman redeemer (Ruth 3.13-18). We must make decisions that are pleasing to God. Certainly, He puts all those who are called to the test.

It’s sad to see people who should be an example fall into sin and fail in trials. Why get dirty if you will live eternity in Glory? The saved person is someone special, chosen to be with the One who came and defeated Hell, in order to take us out of Satan's hands. Honor God and you will be honored!

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares

It’s beautiful to see Ruth and Orpah’s response. It shows that Naomi was a good mother-in-law, but she still insisted that they get real. According to Naomi, there was no reason for her daughters-in-law to follow her, because there was little possibility that she would give birth to children who would take the place of those who died. But there was something that Naomi had not said, and this was important: to pray to see the divine plan in all of that situation!

This was the second trial they had been through. In the first trial, Naomi told them to return home and asked God to be kind to them. Naomi also blessed them, asking the Lord to give them rest in the house of those who would be their husbands. It was a very special moment, seeing Naomi's love for them. They hugged each other and cried (verse 9). There would be more to come!

In our walk with our heavenly Father, we will also face difficulties that will shape our willingness to follow Him. In fact, whatever happens to us, even betrayals, should be seen as a reason to show that we love the Lord. Many people have not been taught to endure everything for the love of God, and unfortunately, when they are faced with marital betrayal - they don’t obey Him!

Paul understood that many would face difficult situations, such as marital betrayal, and spoke out: Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? (Romans 8.35). There are people firm in the faith who go through a tragic experience and, as a result, get lost. Jesus said: Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?” (Luke 18.8b).

Jesus asked Peter three times if Peter loved Him. The answer was yes, and Christ declared that Peter's death would glorify God: Most assuredly, I say to you, when you were younger, you girded yourself and walked where you wished; but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will gird you and carry you where you do not wish. (John 21.18). “"Follow Me" was Christ's command. Peter began to follow Him and as he saw John, he asked: “But Lord, what about this man?” and the answer was: If I will that he remain till I come, what is that to you? You follow Me. (John 21.15-23). God knows everything and that is enough!

Both Orpah and Ruth told Naomi that they would certainly go with her to Bethlehem, but then - their mother-in-law extended the conversation and made them understand what their future would be (Ruth 1.11-13). Orpah then demonstrated that she did not have so much love for her mother-in-law, for she saw her future: Then they lifted up their voices and wept again; and Orpah kissed her mother-in-law, but Ruth clung to her. (Verse 14). In these moments, we prove who we really love!

Paul admonished Timothy: Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth (2 Timothy 2.15). Ruth followed Naomi and was an ancestor of Jesus. Orpah was never spoken of again!

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares

Naomi was spiritual and wise. She did not force her daughters-in-law to make a hasty and senseless decision. The proposition made to them was to see if they both really loved her. When choosing who will be your better half, be wise enough, without being hasty. Ask for heaven's guidance so that you don't fall into a trap. After all, marriage should be forever. Live in the fear of God!

The servant of the Most High must be a person of prayer, who places his problems before the Lord. He will then answer those who ask him for an explanation of his faith and will test those who want to walk with him (1 Peter 3.15). Those who have God's instruction suffer the same pressures that others do, but they come out of any evil plan with Heaven's approval. He who seeks finds (Luke 11.9,10)!

Those who trust in the Lord are not afraid of losing the person they want to marry or the person who proposes a business partnership to them, even if they are already saved. The act of trusting in God will not prevent them from testing such a candidate; but with respect to the Most High, they will accept the answer He gives. This is what David did before he went off to war. If God said, "Don't go," he would not set foot in battle, that’s why he was a victor (2 Samuel 5.19).

Our arguments need to come from God, so that we don't let Satan use us, for that’s his greatest desire. If doubt is in our heart after consulting the Lord, it is better not to say yes. Don't be influenced by any factor; just feel what comes to you. In the Holy Book, you will find the solution given by God. After you pray sincerely in Jesus' Name, He will guide you in the right way!

To covet a person's beauty and therefore lead them to marry you, knowing that you won't love them or make them happy, will be the reason for you to go to the court of the Universe (1 Thessalonians 4:3-8). Never harm or stand in the way of someone's happiness. Respect the person you propose to marry or you want to enter into a business or ministerial partnership with. This is right and it makes the Lord happy. However, without divine guidance, do not take any action!

You cannot "buy" anyone into marriage by promising them the moon and the stars. The fact that there is no true love in that union means that the couple will have problems that will lead them to suffer. So, the Scriptures declare: But he who doubts is condemned if he eats, because he does not eat from faith; for whatever is not from faith is sin (Romans 14.23). There must be sincerity towards God and your fellow neighbor!

Likewise, never insist that someone be your partner. When things come from God, you feel good. Otherwise, don't accept them. God will never convince a person to commit to someone who they won’t get along with. Trust in the Lord, and He will straighten your life (Proverbs 3.1-10)!

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares

Coming back in defeat is always problematic, because it brings a feeling about what others will say about us. However, if we want to stand up in front of everyone, we have to speak what happened. Telling the truth is the best way to get up in front of people. Remaining in error is simply worse. Returning to the House of Bread was Naomi's best decision; after all, she should have never left her home.

The journey would be long, and they would depend on the good will of people to give them a place to stay, or take shelter somewhere. Naomi did not venture out alone; probably her husband gave the final word. However, since he and her two sons died, the best thing for her was to take the road home, in order to restart her life. Living in a land where the Lord is not welcome is difficult, unless we are missionaries.

Because they were three women walking alone, they could have problems with people who do not respect their neighbor, being victims of theft and abuse. Naomi had lost everything, but she had kept her faith, and so she felt it was time to go back and rebuild everything she had lost. Now, if her world had collapsed, why not build a better one? So, they went to her people, but there would be some trials.

Elimelech left Bethlehem with one goal: to escape from trouble. In the end, Naomi lost her family. Now she returned with only her two daughters-in-law. She could not escape the difficulties, but rather returned with one more – she had lost everything. Her daughters-in-law followed her, and the question that perhaps was in her heart: until when? They were mourning the loss of their husbands, but what were they to do when they felt the need to remarry?

Naomi felt that she would have to test both of them. If they were not in the same spirit, further down the road, she would have more problems. We need to test the person we choose as our spouse, to see how they are doing in relation to God's work. If there is no love for the Lord, imagine what they feel for us. Naomi set out to check whether her daughters-in-law were in fact God's people, or were with her out of charity, and this reason was certainly not enough.

    The beautiful thing was that with each step, she felt that this time she was making the right choice. Therefore, anxiety took over her heart. For a while, all she could think about was arriving in Bethlehem, not knowing that in it the Messiah would be born. He would bring salvation and full authority over evil deeds, including sickness and all sorts of evil. Not only do we have redemption in Jesus, but also all necessary things (Matthew 6.25-34)

Naomi did the best thing. She felt the divine hand when Ruth told her that the Lord would be her God, and that justified all sacrifice (Ruth 1.15-17). However, Naomi wondered whether the two were going with her out of compassion or love - whether they were ready to renounce their gods, accepting the one true God!

           In Christ, with love,

           R. R. Soares

The haste of some is the reason they are destroyed. As soon as they receive bad news, they set out for some place that they think is better for themselves and their family. This happened to a man from the land of Bethlehem, who got carried away by illusion and left for Moab. In the House of Bread, meaning of the name Bethlehem, the city where King David would be born, there was drought, and there was prosperity in the country of the Moabites.

Now, the best place is where the Lord has placed us. Crises don't last forever; they come and go. But the desperate get desperate and do not pray to the Lord for guidance (Proverbs 14.29; 19.2). Elimelech was the head of this family, along with Naomi, his wife, and Mahlon and Chilion, their two sons. They went to another land, with a different language and customs, even the god worshiped there was invented by those who did not know the God of Israel, the one true Lord!

As the days passed, Elimelech became ill and passed away. His two sons must have looked for work and soon, as their age advanced, they married two Moabites. Their dreams were big, so they stayed there for almost ten years. However, Mahlon and Chilion also died. Where there is no faith in God, but rather in idols, the Lord's help never comes. Naomi was left alone, without hope!

Elimelech had a beautiful name, its meaning is "my God is real." Mahlon, the son, on the other hand, means "sickness." The other was called Chilion: "wasting away." It seems that these names were given to them after one became sick and there was no cure for him, and the other, for the same reason, withered to death.

Finally, the Good News arrived: Bethlehem had been transformed! The Lord visited His people and then there was bread in abundance. Naomi, whose name means "pleasant", saw that it was time to return to her land, the House of Bread, where more than a thousand years later, the Bread of Life, the Lord Jesus, would be born (John 6.35,48). She decided to return to Bethlehem with her daughters-in-law. So, the three widows prepared everything and set out on the road (Ruth 1.6,7).

When God visits our land, those who stayed and endured the ordeal find themselves far better off than those who ran away from the trouble. No one should hide from any bad news, but rather have faith in God and use the Name above every name. This will provide the solution to the problems to come. Naomi returned with little or almost nothing left, but her two daughters-in-law took pity on her (Ruth 1.9,10).

She then put her daughters-in-law to the test (Ruth. 1:8-18). Ruth means friendship, and Orpah, neck. The latter returned to her people, but Ruth went with her mother-in-law, and the Most High blessed her. She was the great-grandmother of King David and an ancestor of Christ (Ruth. 4:13-22). Be attentive to the Word of God!

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares

Isaiah predicted the sad punishment of Judah, a prophecy intended for all those who would let the evil force use them after the fall of the kingdom of the house of David. Whoever plays with the enemy's fire will see his garments consumed by it. Repentance will reach the remnant (Romans 9.27). They were contaminated without realizing the sorrow sent by the devil to their true friends. Only God’s mercy!

As for those who love treachery, who have not truly repented and surrendered their hearts, they will be broken as the potter's vessel is broken. It will be thrown back to the place from which it was taken. How sad it will be to see those who are prepared and sanctified to be used by the Most High - walking with those who have lost the fear of God. Unfortunately, many people call themselves servants of the evil one. Mercy!

The God of love will break anyone who does not want to be what He has destined for His Kingdom. Such a person acts wickedly like Alexander the tinsmith, who caused Paul much harm, and Hymenaeus. These men did much evil and were handed over to Satan to learn not to blaspheme anymore (1 Timothy 1.20). Why do some compare themselves to those mentioned in Psalm 55.12-15. Many saved people become fools!

In those days when Isaiah's prophecy was to be fulfilled, there was all kinds of error in Judah. No doubt, when many rise up against the Truth, there will also be sin. The devil uses those who indulge in licentiousness, lust and sensuality. Why are there people twisting the Word to their own doom? May the mercy of the Most High deliver them completely from the enemy, for there is still a way back for the sincere!

The promised prosperity would come to the people of Judah (Proverbs 10.22), but because they would rule their own hearts, that people would be lost in the same iniquity of those who don’t know the Lord. The world thinks only of bread and games, with all the facilities of modern life. To have a car of the year is the poor achievement of those who don't love God, for to possess goods and to show them off is more important than to lead the lost to salvation. Pray!

Like the young man in Proverbs 5:1-23, the foolish ones are seduced by the adulteress, who is hunting for precious lives (Proverbs 7). There is no shortage of examples in Scripture of those who have given in to the devil. Unfortunately, others will also turn to the pride of the father of lies (John 8.44). Don't take the wrong road, the path of death, because you have been washed by the blood of Jesus. Continue to be an overcomer!

If you continue on the wrong path, you will be broken by the Lord and you will never again be the person He has prepared to lead many to Zion. Not one of your pieces will be found to take fire from Heaven or to draw water from the fountains of salvation (Isaiah 12.3).

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares