Finding Favor in the Mundane

The story of Ruth teaches us to look for the powerful hand of God amidst the seemingly mundane facets of our lives. In the bustling rhythm of our lives, there are a multitude of tasks that we do without even thinking. You may wake up, prepare lunches, take children to school, fulfill responsibilities at work, return home, cook dinner, clean, and prepare for the next day. It can become so monotonous that we ignore the mighty hand of God that is in play in every part of our lives. We must never underestimate the extraordinary things that God can do with the ordinary parts of our lives.
 
READ: Deuteronomy 24:19 NIV

When you are harvesting in your field and you overlook a sheaf, do not go back to get it. Leave it for the foreigner, the fatherless and the widow, so that the Lord your God may bless you in all the work of your hands.
 
God goes before us, just as He did for Ruth. Ruth decided to glean in the fields to provide for herself and serve Naomi. There was a significant gap between the times that the books of Deuteronomy and Ruth were written, but God had already put into action what would benefit Ruth if she was a faithful servant. God knows what will happen in our lives before the day begins, and He provides for us just as He did for Ruth. 
 
There is no specific verse that mentions Ruth’s humility. Her humility is demonstrated through her actions and attitudes towards others; she showed selfless devotion to Naomi, worked hard, and interacted respectfully with others. She was not looking to be noticed by Boaz; she only wanted to serve faithfully. This is such a wonderful way to be remembered! Ruth received the unmerited favor of God; she was forgiven, humble, and a servant to others. This same spiritual humility earns her a seat among the four other women in Jesus’ genealogy (Matthew 1:5).
 
READ: Proverbs 22:1 NLT

Choose a good reputation over great riches; being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold.
 
C. S Lewis once said, “ Humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less.”

We can demonstrate humility to our families and those around us, even in the mundane tasks of daily living, while pointing others to Christ. Look for ways to serve those around you while thanking God for His provision and the opportunity to serve. Extend kindness and compassion to those around you, and pray for a heart to see what God sees in others. Seek guidance and wisdom; we do not have all the answers and need to be open to receiving the knowledge and wisdom of others. We can cultivate a spirit of gratitude and humbly acknowledge that every good gift comes from God. As children of God, our actions should point others to Christ. 
 
JOURNAL:
• In what ways can  you give up your life and serve those around you this week?
• Be intentional in your thinking and list the ways in which God has provided for you and blessed the mundane areas of your life.
 
PRAYER:
Father God, thank You for always showing up! You go before us, walk along beside us, and never leave at any point. Thank You for the abundant grace only You can give! Please help us to recognize Your sovereign grace even in the seemingly uninteresting areas of our lives. Lord, thank You for the opportunities to serve those around us. Help us to abide in Your shadow and allow our words and actions to direct others to You. In Your precious and holy name, we pray. Amen!  
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Rebecca Alfred - April 17th, 2024 at 7:13am

There are no mundane tasks when God has ordered our every step. This was a sweet devotion and reminder for today.