Leader Guide
Prayer
- Whiteboard and marker; or chalkboard and chalk
Write on the board: Be kind and faithful to others. Be faithful to God.
Ruth told Naomi she would go where she went and live where she lived. Wherever Naomi died, she would be buried there, also.
Think of that for a moment. Ruth did not place any conditions on her commitment to Naomi. She did not say—if you find a nice home, in a safe city, or in a good neighborhood. She said wherever you go, I will come, and wherever you live, I will stay. Ruth even said that when Naomi died; she would not leave and eventually be buried beside her. Ruth completely surrendered her life to Naomi and God. She also called Naomi’s family her family.
Now, think about what Ruth said and apply it to our relationship with God. Can we say that we will follow Him wherever He leads us—no matter what happens? Can we say that our commitment is for life? Can we love God’s people, no matter where they live or who they are? Let’s take some time to pray today. Ask God to help you be kind and faithful to others. Then ask God to help you be faithful to Him and trust Him completely.
Tell the children that they may look at the board to remind them of what to pray. Allow time for children to pray quietly for a minute or two.
Close in prayer. Dear God, fill us with Your power so we can follow Ruth’s example and be kind and faithful to others. God, we also pray that we would be faithful in following and serving You, because You are always faithful to us and always keep every one of Your promises. In Jesus’ name, Amen.