JOSHUA'S JOURNEY: MORE COURAGE

INTRODUCTION

God always keeps His promises and will never leave us or forsake us. His loyal love is the anchor for our souls. Because of God’s grace, we are not consumed. We grieve with hope.

Life can be devastating. Loss can overwhelm us. We weep in pain, but God comforts us. Tragedy reveals character. You find out who your true friends are when you are in the dark valleys. We need God, and we need each other.

Naomi and Ruth both lost their husbands. They were mourning, vulnerable, and searching for next steps. God demonstrates His great love through people. Ruth refuses to leave Naomi. Their bond brings hope. They venture together, walking with God, and needing a new start (Proverbs 17:17 and 18:24).

BIG IDEA

God’s faithful love leads you to be unselfish and loyal in your relationships. Real love is far more than kind words. Love includes action. Love is willing to sacrifice. Love is eager to serve. Love protects. Love shows up when someone is alone. Love is the greatest of all virtues. Love includes truth. Love comes from God.

We are designed to receive and give love daily. In a “me-first” world, authentic love can be difficult to find. Ruth is willing to relocate with Naomi, work to provide food for her, honor her, encourage her, and do whatever it takes to ensure Naomi is well cared for and supported. Her selfless service will inspire many people and glorify God. (1 Corinthians 13:4-8).

KEY POINTS

• God brings healing through positive and close relationships.
• Generosity is inspiring, wise, and glorifies God.
• God has the final say, and His love is greater than our tragedies.
• God is a Father to the fatherless and sets the lonely in families.
• God rewards people who honor Him.
• Find someone you can serve and make their life better.
• The need is usually linked to the call, so lead with love.

GROUP QUESTIONS

1. What are some victories from God that you want to celebrate?
2. How would the death of Moses affect Joshua? (Joshua 1:1-2)
3. What is the encouragement and the command God gives Joshua? (Joshua 1:3-9)
4. How does God direct and lead the Israelites into the Promised Land? (Joshua 3:2-17)
5. How do the Israelites overcome the daunting army and walls of Jericho? (Joshua 6:1-11)
6. What are some courageous decisions and declarations that honor God? (Joshua 24:14-27)
7. How can you give hope to one person this week?

CONCLUSION

Boaz marries Ruth as her kinsman-redeemer. To redeem means to buy back.

God provided restoration for Ruth. Jesus is our ultimate Redeemer because He paid the price for our sins through His shed blood and death on the cross. It was the greatest demonstration of love that the world will ever see. (Philippians 2:1-11).

He rose from the grave in victory on the third day. Let’s follow His example of unselfishness. Jesus washed the disciples’ feet because He loved them.

Love heals wounds and meets needs. God’s love transforms our hearts, homes, churches, and communities.

FOR FURTHER STUDY

For further study, read: Ruth 1:1-2:3, 2:11-23, 4:1-22, and watch the daily devotion videos this week.

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