I shared about this a few weeks ago – doing what you are doing, even if you think no one is noticing. I have another clear example that jumped out at me in my devotion yesterday. As I was reading through Ruth 2, and having read a novel on this bible character recently, I noticed something about her.
Ruth had left her hometown to remain with her mother in law, even though she did not know what her future held. She knew two things: she was going with Naomi, and she was determined to trust God with her situation – even though as a Moabite, she would likely have grown up worshipping idols. She made a conscious decision with Naomi, when she stated that “Your God [will be] my God” Ruth 1:16b.
Ruth did everything she could to make Naomi’s life comfortable. I don’t think she was looking for recognition; she was looking to fulfil her promise to Naomi of doing her best to take care of Naomi in her older years as she would likely be unable to work. She went willingly to the fields to glean, even being the one to proactively ask Naomi what the customs were for those who were poor. She went with Naomi’s permission and blessing.
When Boaz meets her, her reputation had long preceded her. While she may have been fulfilling her promises to Naomi, others recognized what she had been doing for her. It was especially recognized because she was a stranger in a foreign land, but she did not let that stop her.
My appeal to you will likely be similar to the last time. Are you doing something and feel like you are getting nowhere? Don’t give up. As long as you are doing what you think you have been called to do, God is seeing your efforts and will reward it when the time becomes right.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for your biblical teachings and providing examples for us of how we should be living. Lord, sometimes it’s difficult to keep doing, and not seeing the rewards, but we know that we must continue doing whatever work you have called us to do. Help us to realize that your timing is more perfect than any we can ever imagine, and to continue to trust you in all circumstance.