God's Glory Church

“Do not call me: Naomi, – call me: Mara, because the Almighty has made me very bitter.” — Ruth 1:20

After the death of her first husband, Jen remarried. However, the children of the new husband did not accept her. Now he died too, and the children hated her for staying in the house where they had spent their childhood. Her husband left her a small amount of money, but the children say she is stealing their inheritance. Jen is understandably disappointed and bitter.

Naomi’s husband moved with his family to Moab, where he and his two sons died. Years later, Naomi returned to Bethlehem; at the same time her daughter-in-law Ruth arrived with her. With their appearance, the city was in an uproar, and people began to ask: “Is this Naomi?” (Ruth 1:19). In response, she asked that she no longer be called by this name, which means “pleasant”. Instead, her name should be “Mara”, which means “hill”. “I left rich, but the Lord returned me empty” (vv. 20-21).

Can you be called “bitter”? You are disappointed by your friends, family, or your health. You deserved better, but you didn’t get it. And you are overcome with bitterness.

Naomi returned to Bethlehem with bitterness in her heart, but she returned. And you can go home too. Come to Jesus, a descendant of Ruth, born in Bethlehem. And rest in His love.

Over time, God changed Naomi’s bitterness to joyful fulfillment of His perfect plan (Ruth 4:13-22). It can also change your bitterness. Come to Him.

What name describes you? What does it mean to you to live out the name that describes you in Jesus Christ?

Heavenly Father, I return home to find peace in Your Son.

Author: Mike Whittmer