Dena Calivas - Real Estate Professional

04/25/2026

04/06/2026

More Bitter for Me
Monday, April 06 | Ruth 1:9–14
On the Go? Listen Now!

A literary foil is a character who stands in contrast to another character. The two characters may be very different, but the foil magnifies the nature of the hero.

Today’s passage begins with Naomi kissing her daughters-in-law as the three women wept—an emotional moment, full of grief, fear, longing, and love. At first, Ruth and Orpah both refused to leave Naomi’s side, declaring their commitment to Naomi above their own community (v. 10). Naomi responded with an impassioned, logical argument based on the Levirate law (Deuteronomy 25). It required a brother to marry his brother’s widow if she had no son. Naomi started with two rhetorical questions: “Why would you come with me? Am I going to have any more sons?” (v. 11).

She painted an impossible hypothetical scenario (v. 12). Even if Naomi married that very night and became pregnant immediately, it would be too long for the women to wait. She was highlighting the foolishness of the young women’s emotional choice. Naomi concluded with some shocking exclamations. She declared, “It is more bitter for me than for you” (v. 13)! And she placed the blame on God Himself. His hand was against her (v. 13). She saw all her trials—famine, displacement, death—as evidence of God’s wrath.

The three women wept again. Naomi’s speech stirred their emotions. Orpah took the logical route. She kissed Naomi good-bye and returned home. Orpah does serve as a foil for Ruth—her departure heightens Ruth’s reaction when she “clung to” Naomi (v. 14). The act of “clinging” implies loyalty and love, leaving connection to one group to join another. This word is also used in Genesis 2:24—“a man leaves his father and mother and is united [clings] to his wife.”


Go Deeper
Compare the choices made by Ruth and Orpah. What do you think influenced their decisions? Have you ever faced a similarly agonizing choice?

Pray with Us
Father, thank You for giving us examples of love and loyalty through the story of Ruth. We give You control over our decisions and pray that they would honor You.

02/01/2026

Go Deeper
How surprising was Jesus’ arrival to those alive at that time? Why is it significant that Matthew quotes the prophet Isaiah? Extended Reading: Matthew 1–3

Pray with Us
Lord Jesus, we rejoice that You came to earth to live with us, to walk with us, and to save us. Thank You, Almighty God, that You speak to Your people through Your Son.

08/08/2025

Can't wait to put this on the market!!!

04/28/2025

Feeling overwhelmed at work? Burnout is real, but it doesn’t have to be the norm! Here are some life-changing tips for a healthier work-life balance. Your well-being matters! Take steps today to prevent burnout and thrive. 💙

https://joyamongchaos.com/burned-out-at-work/

03/24/2025

🌿✨ Bring the Green Indoors! ✨🌿
Want to add some fresh vibes to your space? Try these 5 Unique & Easy Indoor Garden Projects—no green thumb required! 🌱🏡 👇💬

02/24/2025

Looking for the perfect surface underfoot? 🏡✨ Check out the 9 Best Flooring Options for Your Home—expert advice to help you choose the right style, durability, and comfort for your space!

https://conta.cc/3EMRRMw

01/27/2025

💖🍓 Love is in the air, and so are these irresistible Valentine’s Day treats! Whether you’re spoiling your sweetheart, your bestie, or yourself, these goodies are guaranteed to make your heart melt. ❤️

12/30/2024

Setting goals is the first step toward achieving greatness! 🎯 This year, focus on personal growth with meaningful goals that inspire progress and purpose. 💪✨


https://conta.cc/4gbKjRn