In Luke's characterization of the early church, he describes them as having

"sincere hearts"...but what does that mean? In the context of our modern

culture, the definition of sincerity seems to shift depending on who you

ask: is it just saying what's on your mind? Is it being "real" (whatever

that means)? Does integrity have any role?

Examining the story of Ruth, we see that in God's design for how to live,

you cannot separate integrity and sincerity. Our sincerity costs us

something in our interpersonal relationships, in that we risk being

vulnerable with our true, authentic selves. It is our true authentic

selves, however, that God has made us to be and He will use who we are,

wherever we are. 

Looking at Naomi in the story, we also see the importance of sincerity of

our worship. Naomi points us to the reality that sometimes the most honest

worship we can offer God is "I'm really mad at you right now". From Ruth

and Naomi's story, we know that when we bring our authentic selves before

God, He will use it. So we don't need to be ashamed or embarrassed of our

doubts, fears, or laments -- we just need to be honest about them and let

God lead wherever He's taking us.

By Rebekah Covington