Lost But Not Forgotten Series

Series: Faithfulness In A Fallen Land [#1]

LOST BUT NOT FORGOTTEN

Ruth 1:1-22

Introduction:

In a World full of trouble and uncertainty, the story of Ruth shows us how strong faith and God's care can be, even in difficult times. As we start our series on "Faithfulness In A Fallen Land," we look at Ruth 1. This story tells about a family that faces loss, being forced to leave their home, and feeling hopeless. Even in these hard moments, Ruth’s story reminds us that God is still with us. The theme "Lost But Not Forgotten" teaches us that, even when we feel abandoned or forgotten, God's love is always working behind the scenes, guiding us toward hope and new beginnings.

This part of the Bible helps us think about what it means to go through loss and to stay faithful when life gets tough. Ruth’s loyalty and trust in God can encourage us today, showing that God's faithfulness never fails. As we learn more about her story, we will see how God's love shines through even the darkest times. This reminds us that we are never truly lost to God- He always remembers us and cares for us.

Ruth 1:1-5

When you lose your…

1. Security, God remains your refuge.

When our sense of security is taken away, (whether because of personal loss, difficult situations in society, or unexpected events) Ruth 1:1-5 shows us that God's faithfulness stays the same. Naomi lost her husband and sons, and that could have made her give up hope and feel unstable; but through it all, God's control and love kept His people going, even in the darkest times. Practically, this teaches us to trust not in worldly things that can fade or be lost, but in God's constant presence as our safe place. When everything around us feels shaky, we can remember that God is our refuge- Always there to help us in times of trouble. Trusting His power and love gives us peace, even in chaos, knowing that His faithfulness continues beyond our struggles, and His grace is enough for us.

Theologically, this point reminds us that God's role as our safe place never changes. No matter what we lose, (whether money, relationships, or our normal way of life) His love and faithfulness remain steady. Practically, it encourages us to respond to loss with faith instead of fear or despair. We can turn to God in prayer, read His Word, and connect with others, trusting that He is working all things for our good. Just as Ruth held onto Naomi and found hope in God's care, we too are called to hold onto God's promises. Even when we feel lost or vulnerable, we are never forgotten, because our true security is in God's unshakable grace.

Ruth 1:6-7

When you lose your…

2. Direction, God's promises guide your path.

When we feel lost or unsure about where to go, Ruth 1:6-7 reminds us that God's promises can help guide us. Ruth’s story shows how, even when things seem very difficult and uncertain, God remains faithful. His promises, like caring for His people and providing for their needs, give us hope and direction. Practically, this means we should trust in God's Word and promises, especially when life feels overwhelming. By thinking about what God has said, we can find our way again and move forward with confidence, knowing that God is guiding us toward what is best for us.

Spiritually and practically, this point encourages us to seek God's guidance through prayer, reading the Bible, and talking with others, especially when we feel confused or lost. Ruth’s story shows that trusting God's promises can bring hope and clarity, even during sad or hard times. When we face difficult situations, (whether in relationships, work, or our faith) we are reminded that God's promises are a safe and sure guide. By trusting Him, we can let go of trying to control everything and walk forward in faith. This not only helps us find our way again but also shows others God's faithfulness as we trust Him in our struggles.

Ruth 1:8-13

When you lose your…

3. Loved ones, God's grace sustains your hope.

In Ruth 1:8-13, we see Naomi very sad because she lost her husband and sons. She feels like her hope is slipping away. Theologically, this story shows us that even in our darkest times of loss and sadness, God's grace is still with us. His grace helps us hold on to hope when everything feels hopeless. Naomi’s words to her daughters-in-law remind us that it’s normal to feel abandoned when loved ones are gone, but God's care and control are still working. Practically, this teaches us to rely on God's grace during hard times. We can trust that His hope and love will hold us steady, even when we are hurting, and remind us that we are never truly abandoned.