by Candace Simar

simar@tds.net

"Don’t call me Naomi," she told them. "Call me Mara, because the Almighty has made my life very bitter. I went away full, but the Lord has brought me back empty. Why call me Naomi? The Lord has afflicted me; the Almighty has brought misfortune upon me."

Ruth 1: 20-21 NIV

Naomi had lost hope. Her husband and sons were dead. Through the course of her life, she had known disappointment. Her dreams were dead. She felt no hope for the future. Looking back she saw only what she had lost.

But though Naomi’s heart was broken, her story wasn’t over yet. God had a purpose and destiny for her life. Through a series of answered prayers, Naomi’s life turned around. In fact, God blessed her so much that she became the great-great grandmother of David, the great king of Israel. Her name and story is forever etched in the Bible as a testimony to God’s wonderful plan for her life.

When Naomi spoke the words in the verse above, she thought she was speaking truth. She blamed God for her misfortunes and allowed herself to wallow in bitterness and self pity. She did not see the truth--that though things had gone wrong, God was still working in her life.

He has a plan for you as well. Though circumstances in your life may feel all wrong, know that God has a better ending for you than you could ever dream. He asks only that you come closer to Him. He calls you by name. He speaks loving words to you and gives you His promises in writing so you won’t forget them. He loves a happy ending. Let Him bring a happy ending to your story. Don’t grow bitter, let God make it better.

Hear my prayer, O Lord; listen to my cry for mercy. In the day of my trouble I will call to you, for you will answer me. Psalm 86:6-7 NIV

 Copyright Candace Simar