READ RUTH 1
GO DEEPER
The author of this book from the Old Testament is unknown, but scholars generally believe it was written after the era of the judges. Judges 17:6 illustrates a dark period in Israel's history where people acted according to their desires. During this time, the book of Ruth presents a captivating story that is considered one of the greatest love stories ever told. Set in Bethlehem and Moab, the narrative introduces us to Elimelech, Naomi, and their two sons. Facing a famine, they migrate to Moab (a nation that had oppressed Israel during the era of the judges) in search of sustenance. Within a decade, the sons marry Moabite women, but tragedy strikes as Naomi mourns the loss of her husband and sons. Parallels can easily be drawn between Naomi and Job.
Naomi is currently in a perilous, helpless, and impoverished state, being a widow in a foreign land without any family support. Feeling shattered and resentful, Naomi chooses to go back to Bethlehem. She advises her two daughters-in-law to stay in Moab and begin anew, despite the added difficulty the move will bring her. While Orpah stays with her people, Ruth sees Naomi's selfless demeanor and opts to follow her. In verse 16, Ruth responded, "And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God."
Ruth, a Moabitess, was an outsider who willingly uprooted her life to follow her beliefs, demonstrating loyalty to Naomi by returning with her to Bethlehem to worship the God of Israel. Her faith was rewarded when she received love and kindness from a relative who acted as a redeemer. The book further reveals how God accepted her worship, leading to her name being included in the lineage of Christ in Matthew 1:5. This story illustrates how God, who remains constant according to Hebrews 13:8, can transform the life of a non-Jewish individual like Ruth, weaving a beautiful tale of redemption. By reflecting God's greatness in our actions, we can trust that He will work in our lives in a similar manner.
QUESTIONS
1. Share about a time when you felt someone's loyalty in your life. Take a moment to write a note thanking them.
2. Do you think that God loves you unconditionally and can turn hardships and brokenness into something beautiful like He did for Naomi in the Bible?
3. What is one action you could take this week to bring hope to someone who is suffering?