Scripture Reading: Zechariah 3:3–5
Introduction
A. We all love to see deserving people succeed, which is why everyone loves stories in which the hero goes from rags to riches.
B. The Bible is filled with moving and inspirational stories of this nature, and one of the greatest concerns a woman named Ruth.
Discussion
I. God took Ruth from rags to riches.
A. Ruth chose the more difficult path, and she will always be admired for her decision (Ruth 1:1018; 2:11–12).
B. When Ruth followed Naomi back to Israel, their condition seemed completely hopeless (Ruth 1:5, 8–9).
C. Ruth worked hard and continued to make wise choices (Ruth 2:23; 3:10–11).
D. God rewarded Ruth in the end (Ruth 4:11–17; Matthew 1:5).
II. God can bring anyone from rags to riches.
A. He did so for Joseph, David, Daniel, Jesus (Philippians 2:5–9), and even for a dying beggar (Luke 16:22).
B. God can replace our filthy garments (Zechariah 3:3–4; Ephesians 4:22–23) and make us truly rich (2 Corinthians 8:9).
C. God’s riches are inexhaustible (John 14:2; Ephesians 1:7, 18; 2:4; 3:8).
D. To receive God’s riches, we must simply be faithful (Matthew 25:21).
Conclusion
A. Even the reproach of Christ is greater riches than anything this world can offer us (Hebrews 11:26).
B. If you are in spiritual rags today, why not go to the Lord today and let Him trade them in for His riches?