Turning the Page

Scripture:

“So Naomi returned from Moab, accompanied by her daughter-in-law Ruth… They arrived in Bethlehem in late spring, at the beginning of the barley harvest.” – Ruth 1:22

Reflection:

Naomi’s life had unraveled—loss, grief, and bitterness defined her story. She even changed her name from Naomi (pleasant) to Mara (bitter), declaring that God had dealt harshly with her. But verse 22 gives us a glimpse of hope: “They arrived in Bethlehem at the beginning of the barley harvest.” In other words, a new chapter was starting.

No matter how long your “chapter one” has been—a season of pain, waiting, or disappointment—God is able to turn the page. Naomi couldn’t see it yet, but God was writing redemption into her story. And He is doing the same for you. You may feel stuck in a chapter you hate, but it’s not the end.

Application:

Are you holding on to bitterness like Naomi? Have you started to believe that your best days are behind you? Today, choose faith over despair. Tell God: “I trust You to turn the page.” Even if you can’t see it now, His providence is already setting the stage for something good.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You that my story isn’t finished. Help me release bitterness and trust that You are working behind the scenes. Give me faith to believe that the next chapter is filled with hope and purpose. Amen.