DATE: Saturday 18 April 2026
TOPIC: “RESOLVED NEVER TO LINGER”
TEXT: Ruth 1: 14-17; Matt. 4: 19-20
MEMORY VERSE: “Don’t ask me to leave you and turn back. Wherever you go, I will go; wherever you live, I will live. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God….” – Ruth 1:16.
Orpah may depart, Demas may forsake (2 Tim 4:10), Judas may betray, BUT we hear Ruth say to Naomi, nothing but death will separate them – I will not go back! Similarly, Peter and Andrew immediately left family, thriving businesses, friends and assets without looking back (Matt. 19:29).
It is important to note that the heart’s alignment is intrinsically linked to a resolution never to look back, draw back or linger in order to court a loyal relationship. In other words, an undivided and total commitment, devoid of extraneous excuses is needed in following the Lord. Jesus teaches in Luke 9:57-62 of the danger of looking back, lingering, indecision and backsliding which makes one unfit for the kingdom of God.
The words of the Hymn by Rev. Palmer Hartsough (1844-1932) captures a discipleship that requires sacrificing personal desires and past attachments, past glories ad pressing on to an excellent relationship with Christ (Phil. 3:5-11).
I am resolved no longer to linger
charmed by the world’s delight;
Things that are higher, things that are nobler,
These have allured my sight
PRAYER: Almighty God, I am resolved to come to You, leaving behind my sin and strife, family and friends, help me walk with You without turning back in Jesus most precious Name, Amen.