Ruth 1:16 (KJV)
And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God:
In our relationships, we are called to be highly loyal. Ruth’s embodiment of loyalty is demonstrated in her complete devotion and duty to her mother-in-law. Ruth’s commitment exemplifies loyalty, love, and a deep bond that transcends mere family ties. Her words resonate across generations, reminding us of the power of steadfast companionship and loyalty. Elimelech, Naomi, and their sons migrate from Bethlehem to Moab due to a famine in Canaan. Their sons marry Moabite women, Orpah and Ruth. After Elimelech’s death, both of Naomi’s sons die, leaving behind three widows. Naomi urges her daughters-in-law to return to their families and find new husbands, but Ruth, inspired by her loyalty and love for Naomi, refuses to leave her side. She delivers a passionate speech to Naomi, expressing her commitment to stay with her and support her, even if it means facing hardship and uncertainty. Ruth refused to leave Naomi’s side, saying, “Wherever you go, I will go; wherever you live, I will live.” Ruth’s decision to give up the possibility of security and remarriage at home to worship and serve the true and living God of Israel was indeed rewarding as she became the great-grandmother of king David and a direct ancestor of Jesus. Ruth was considered honorable and a woman of integrity because of her loyalty.
Loyalty is a sign of faithfulness, devotion, and trust towards God and others. Loyalty fosters strong relationships, ensures our integrity, and reflects our commitment to God and others. From the Scriptures, we understand that God established the essence of loyalty through His covenant relationship with His people and promised His loyalty and commitment to us. God’s covenant assures His people of His everlasting love that no believer can ever be separated from. God promises us His unwavering loyalty and commitment. The Bible also shows that God is the true source of loyalty, as He remains faithful even when we are faithless. For true believers, loyalty is shown in our commitment to Jesus and the Gospel, and we demonstrate our loyalty and self-sacrificing allegiance to God by following the Word of God. Being loyal to God means shunning the world and its carnal commitment to the rewards of sin. If Christians are loyal to the Lord, they will overcome end-time temptations and remain loyal to Christ to the end. We will not experience God’s best if we’re not loyal. Loyal people are committed, honorable, and respectful people. They always live at their best and beyond themselves, preferring to be misunderstood by men instead of misrepresenting God, for God loves sincere followers.
Beloved, it pays to be loyal, for loyalty does have rewards. Not only in this life but indeed in the life to come. Your commitment to the things of God will bring you blessings. When you are loyal to God, God can’t look away. In your relationships with one another, you are called to steadfast loyalty. Action, they say, speaks louder than words. Spoken words do not often portray the depth of commitment of the speaker until such words are put into action. So loyal people keep their word. Like Ruth, you should be determined to live for God even if it means you’re not making everyone happy. God should be the one you’re living to please, and it’s His approval you should seek each day. Demonstrate your loyalty and self-sacrificing allegiance to God by following His command. As a Christian, your loyalty will be tested. In your walk with God, you will encounter difficult situations requiring you to make decisions. These decisions are indications to the Father whether you are trustworthy enough to move ahead to the next level of responsibility. So, refuse to be crooked in your dealings with God and people. Remember the importance of loyalty, for those who are loyal are trustworthy, reliable, and ready for greater blessings.
O LORD, I receive the grace to be loyal even if it means to stand alone in Jesus’ Name.