Similarities Between Ruth Esther And Jonah

When reading through the Bible many people easily pass over the prophet books. The books of Ruth, Esther, and Jonah are filled with anxiety and fear. These books are about judgment. When reading through these books there are a few major themes that we apply to our lives today such as: idolatry, social injustices, and religious ritualism. Many may think of these issues in past tense but they are very much relevant in today’s world. Along with those three major themes there is another theme that comes to light. Our Lord and Savoir shows deep love for his people and yearning to see them renewed.
Israel grappled over whether they should worship a God they could not see or a man-made god that they could look to physically. God made Himself known
Our God tells us that we are to use God’s wealth for his purpose, including the poor but other gods to not follow that command. Israel was pleased and loving there economic prosperity when Jeroboam II was in reign. Although, throughout that time, Hindson states,“ Israel’s accumulation of wealth led to a wide disparity between the upper and lower classes, and a climate of injustice prevailed as the rich used their power and influence to take advantage of the poor. Selfishness, greed and the pursuit of pleasure characterized Israelite society rather than love for the Lord and one’s neighbor” (Hindson). Moral morals declined and spiritual indifference was brought about. Amos was sent to tell Israel in order to tell Israel that their days of extravagance were over. Two years later God had sent an earthquake that was colossal. Micah felt the need to remind the people of Israel that their love for others showed their love and dedication for God. “No, O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you; to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8). The sacrifices of the offering due to ritualism is offensive to God because it is not out of honor or love for Him. Originally, priests were the ones who were suppose to show the people the correct way to worship and offer sacrifices. Unfortunately they had become corrupt. Animals, which were not appropriate for sacrifice, were accepted and bribes were welcomed. Due to the fact that their leaders did not endorse or defend the standard, the people of Israel did not either. Worship was not out of love for the Lord out of