A Woman of Noble Character

Five women work for an organization that helps relocate children who have illegally crossed the border to reputed family members living in the States.  They take great pride in their work and ensure the safety of the kids they accompany. But then they began to notice a pattern—children they were asked to escort were sent to locations where there was suspected child trafficking and sexual abuse. When they raised concerns and pointed out case study reports that should have kept the children from being “dropped off,” the government overruled their concerns. Their own “Christian” organization, while acknowledging their reports and expressing support, turned a blind eye choosing profit over principle. ​

So the five women had a choice.  They could comply with orders knowing that what they were asked to do was wrong and that their organization was not going to fix what was broken, or they could leave and hopefully find new work elsewhere. And that was what they chose—to quit—a difficult decision because it also meant their close-knit team might never work together again. 
 
Meditation
Ruth 3:11--Now don’t be afraid, my daughter. I will do for you whatever you say, since all the people in my townknow that you are a woman of noble character.
 
Remember the story of Ruth?  This Moabite woman left her own country and friends to accompany her mother-in-law back to Bethlehem, Israel.  She gave up much to do the right thing—to support Naomi and to follow after God.  Her loyalty, and willingness to work hard as a foreigner to gather food for herself and Naomi, became the talk of the town.  She so impressed a prominent businessman, Boaz, a relative of Naomi, that he took her as a wife—praising her noble character. What is noteworthy is that Boaz was also a prominent man (2:1).  Perhaps what is more impressive is that Jesus was born in the small town of Bethlehem, a direct descendant of Ruth!  
            
To live with a noble character is to honor God, and it sets an excellent example for people. The Apostle Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 6:3, “We give no opportunity for stumbling to anyone, so that the ministry will not be blamed.” Those words came from a man committed to living with a blameless character, a precious moral/ethical quality that, even if not honored or disdained on earth, certainly will be rewarded by God for those who follow Him and live their lives to please Him. 
            
Godly character refuses to compromise with worldly standards and conditions. It is an island of strength in a sea of turmoil. It is willing to suffer to do and be what is right regardless of what others think. Therefore, when all five women resign from their organization, their leaving will send a strong and unmistakable message.  And may God, who sees all things, honor them with better, more fulfilling jobs.
   
Inspiration
“Spiritual character is only developed as Noah’s was—by standing loyal to God’s character, no matter what distress the trial of faith brings.”—Oswald Chambers in Not Knowing Where

©2023 Daniel York  ARR.  Reveration is the weekly devotional ministry of First Cause.  If you would like to receive these devotionals go to www.firstcause.org and click on the “Click here to receive weekly devotionals” box.  Unlimited permission to copy this devotional without altering text or profiteering is allowed, subject to the inclusion of this copyright notice.      
 
Ecclesiastes 12:10-The Teacher sought to find delightful sayings and to accurately write words of truth.  (Holman CSB)