RUTH 2:22-23

And Naomi said to Ruth her daughter-in-law, “It Is good, my daughter that you go out with his young women, and that people do not meet you in any other field.” So she stayed close by the young women of Boaz, to glean until the end of barley harvest and wheat harvest; and she dwelt with her mother-in-law.

When travelers visit a foreign land, they are often issued a visa. A visa, in essence, is an agreement with that government that you will stay no longer than a set number of days or months. If that time expires, you must either renew your visa or leave the country. A visa is not for those who plan to live in a country; it’s only for those who plan to visit.

Ruth did not have a visa. When she followed Naomi back to Israel, she had no intention of ever returning to Moab. The Bible says she “dwelt” with her mother-in­ law. This verb implies establishing a permanent residence. She was not just there for a visit; she was there for good.

When we come to Christ, it should be with the idea of taking up permanent residence. We do not come to sample the weather and see if we like it. Having tried everything else, we don’t “try Jesus.”

Instead, we come as those ready to surrender allegiance to all other “countries” and to make Jesus our permanent home. Jesus said, “Abide in Me, and I in you” (John 15:4). The consistency and permanency about our relationship set it apart from a mere visit.

Furthermore, this commitment is reciprocated as Jesus promises to do the same for us. He abides in us, as we abide in Him. Only then can we bear much fruit for God’s glory (v.5).

Do you want to enjoy life to the fullest? Then walk consistently with Christ. Be regular in your prayer times and Bible reading. Be faithful to your local church. Let it be obvious that you’re not a visitor, but have taken up residence in Christ.

THOSE WHO ABIDE IN CHRIST DON’T NEED A VISA FOR HEAVEN.

WOODROW KROLL
www.backtothebible.in