The Possibility of Returning
And the name of the man was Elimelech, and the name of his
wife Naomi, and the name of his two sons, Mahlon and Chilion.
Ruth 1:2
Read Ruth 1:1-2
Elimelech’s original idea was to take his family to Moab until the famine
ended. He left Canaan to supply food for his family; Elimelech was trying to
be a responsible provider. However, when they finally arrived and settled in
Moab, they stayed there.
We must realize that when we go our own way, without seeking guidance
from the Lord, there is often a point of no return, a point at which we settle
down, never to return. When we, like Elimelech, say farewell to the church
and the communion of saints, the clock is seldom turned back. Our relationship
with those we used to associate with becomes strained and deteriorates.
Think of how the psalmist speaks in Psalm 1 of those who seek
companionship with mockers of God and His service; they become drifters
and are cast out from God’s presence.
Question: Who are your companions? Are they worshipers of God?
Psalter 1:1, 3, 4 (based on Psalm 1)
That man is blessed who fearing God, From sin restrains his feet,
Who will not stand with wicked men, Who shuns the scorners’ seat.
That man is nourished like a tree Set by the river’s side;
Its leaf is green, its fruit is sure, And thus his works abide.
The wicked like the driven chaff Are swept from off the land;
They shall not gather with the just, Nor in the judgment stand.
