Read:
In the Old Testament, as in many ancient cultures, names often carried significant meanings. Naomi’s name is a Hebrew word that means “pleasant.” But Naomi’s life was anything but. Not only had her family fled famine, but when we meet her we see her grappling with the death of her husband and two sons. Now, Naomi has a choice to make: to trust that God is good and his plan is perfect, or to lose faith in Yahweh, the God who keeps his promises.
She tells her friends, “Don’t call me Naomi. Call me Mara.” That’s the Hebrew word for “bitter,” and it describes how Naomi was feeling about her circumstances.
Maybe you can relate to Naomi. Has your life been marked by such sadness and struggling that the darkness of your circumstances is all you know? Are you tired of fending off toxic positivity and passive comments like “Look on the bright side!” or “It’s not that bad.”? As we dive into Naomi’s story, you’ll see how God worked in her struggle and restored her hope.
Naomi’s story shows that our joy doesn’t come from our circumstances. God validates our feelings, and he gives us space to grieve, to be angry, to admit that life is a struggle. But also wants us to remember that he doesn’t change, even when our situation does. His mercy is new every morning, and he is faithful.
Prayer: Dear God, you give me everything I need. Your mercies are new every morning. Help me to find joy in every day. Today is a day you have made. Help me rejoice and be glad in it. Amen.