Tuesday, March 18

Scripture: Ruth, Psalm 77

God’s story in the book of Ruth and Psalm 77 is a message of grief, that required relationship to then become redemption.  The book of Ruth is an outward example of this process, where Psalm 77 is an inward prayer or crying out that navigates that same cascade of phases.  God calls us to be in relation with others during suffering and, in relationship with Him through it.  This ultimately brings us to redemption. 

The book of Ruth has always been my favorite book in the Bible.  It is a constant reminder to me that through relationship, God has been able to move in a way that has brought redemption in my life and to others.  Through all my trials and struggles He has provided the support that is necessary for me to be pointed straight to Him.   Just like in Psalm 77, I have been reminded to remember where He has been faithful to believe that He will see me through when I am not able to see that I can.  Just like Naomi, He provided the support I needed when I was not feeling a lot of hope. 

Prayer: God, I thank you so much for providing relationships that have pointed me straight to you. That have been a true shining light of Jesus’s love when my own light was a little dim.  I pray for others to have the eyes to see Jesus working in their life and surround them with relationships that support growth and redemption far and wide.  I thank you for all the blessings you place before us daily. 

~Nichole (Nikki) Stocker

 Daily Prayer Focus: Immigrants and Refugees