But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if even death separates you and me.” Ruth 1:16
A text popped up on my phone just about the time I was prying myself off the coach to head to bed. While I don’t generally cringe at texts, I have had little to no desire or energy to answer lately. After all, it seems we have all gotten a bit jaded and used to the convenience of talking through a screen, making it feel impersonal.
Yet, as I slept-walked into my bedroom scanning my dear friend’s text, my heart sank. Her words glared back at me, and I knew in an instant, it was a cry for help. This friend had just been through a heartbreaking divorce and was now facing a fiery and ferocious custody battle. She wanted so badly for someone to just listen and offer sound advice. She longed for hope and asked for prayer. But, most of all, she needed a friend. Someone to come alongside her and remind her of who she is and better yet, Who God is!
I stewed over that text for a while then decided it was best to call her. Yes, it was late, but I needed to hear her voice. Honestly, I had no idea what I was even going to say. In these situations, there are few words that can ease the pain, but the urge and prompting that was laid so heavily on my heart had me quickly pulling up her number. I’m so grateful I called because upon hearing her shaky voice, I knew she had succumbed to the darkness of depression. I know because I have been there too.
This is why I love the story of Ruth and Naomi. It teaches us the truth behind depression and how, as women, we can extend love and support in such a meaningful way. It’s not about saying the right words or offering sage advice but just being present and willing to sit in the darkness with a dear friend in need.
After Naomi lost her husband and both of her sons, she must have felt lost herself. The darkness of depression consumed her. You can hear it in her painful cries as she re-enters the city of Judah (Ruth 1:19-21). A city in which she left years before with three men she dearly loved, only to return with a “daughter.” Oh, precious, Ruth.
Ruth also knew of great loss and pain. She was raised in the wicked city of Moab, where she was robbed of her innocence and had become an outcast. After losing her husband (Naomi’s son), Ruth was desperate (and likely in a depressed state herself), pleading with Naomi to endure the long trek back to Judah. Basically, she longed to be Naomi’s companion and faithfully stay by her side. She knew that Naomi needed her, but deep down, she also knew she needed Naomi. These women needed each other!
Unfortunately, many women are silently fighting the darkness of depression – alone. Yet, God created us to do this life together (Proverbs 17:17), all the while knowing we will fail on our own.
Sweet sis, if you are struggling with depression and can’t seem to see through the darkness, step out in faith and bravely send that S.O.S. text or call, asking for help. That could be to a close friend, a counselor, or a relative you trust. When we become vulnerable enough to allow others into our pain and dark places, we create space for God to move in those messy parts and grant healing through the servant hearts of another.
As faithful women let’s also try to be in tune with the needs of others and respond with a willing and open heart as the Holy Spirit leads. Whether that means extending a hug with heartfelt advice or sending a sincere smile their way, inwardly offering up a precious prayer. Let’s strive to be a “Ruth” to a “Naomi” in need. Then allow that exchange of love and support to be a sweet balm to your own soul as we usher a reminder that our God is faithful and good, even in our darkest places.
Faithful Father, we so desperately need You. Remind us first and foremost of Your love and that even in our lowest and darkest times You see us and know our pain. Draw close to the woman who is overcome with depression today and bring forth a dear and beloved friend who can touch her heart and remind her who she is and, even more, Who You are!
Grant us the courage to be a Ruth to a Naomi in need while also embracing the times we need help, humbling ourselves and constantly relying on the Holy Spirit to guide us. Give us the will and desire to be women and daughters that exemplify Your love, mercy, and great grace.
In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Jelena Stanojkovic
Related Resource: Jesus Calling - Stories of Faith
Kerry Washington, Andrea Bocelli, Reba McEntire, Mark Wahlberg, Tony Dungy, and Matthew McConaughey—what do all of these people have in common? They are all people of faith who have leaned on God in both the good and challenging times—and they’ve shown up to tell their stories of faith on The Jesus Calling Podcast. The Jesus Calling Podcast provides a place for people from all walks of life to share the heartaches, joys, and divine moments that keep them going.
Inspired by Sarah Young's classic devotional book, the Jesus Calling podcast has brought encouragement and peace to millions. New episodes drop every Thursday! Listen today on LifeAudio.com or wherever you find your podcasts.
Originally published Tuesday, 13 August 2024.
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