I love the great stories encouragement in the Bible. I wish we knew more about Naomi. She must have been an awesome woman of God. After her husband and two sons died, both daughters-in-law cried when she wanted to go back to Israel. Naomi had such a powerful influence on Ruth’s life that she said, For wherever you go, I will go. And wherever you lodge, I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God. (Ruth 1:16)

It’s stunning to me that Naomi’s life was so influential. Ruth was willing to change gods because of watching the way Naomi lived. Naomi even encouraged Ruth to go back to her parents and old gods, but Ruth saw something profound in what Naomi believed.

I think that speaks volumes about how we can live. Preach the gospel. Use words when necessary. I am challenged by that. I want to live in a way that people choose to believe in my God because I have shown Him to be good just by the way I live. Naomi was so amazing that by her influence, Ruth was chosen to be in the lineage of David and ultimately Jesus. That’s the kind of heritage to leave for your sons and daughters.