When Ruth went out in the fields to glean each day, she did so with consistency and diligence. Love is a very interesting concept. They were living in Moab when both of their husbands died. When Ruth gets to Bethlehem, he decided to go to the fields to pick up left over grains for them to grind into flour to use for good. The Midrash points out that Ruth would only go to the fields with the permission of her mother-in-law. He didnt judge her past and didnt penalize her instead he embraced her past by also providing for Naomi. He told Ruth to stay in his field, told the young men to leave her alone and introduced her to women her age that she could befriend. Everyone can find something relatable in Ruths love story. Naomi became a mentor to her, teaching her the ways of the Hebrew people and walking with her through the process of securing Boaz as her kinsman (more on this later). Naomi planned to return to Israel and encouraged Ruth to stay in Moab and return to her mother's family. She doesnt have great riches or great position. God be thanked for your love to me. Love was different for all of the women involved Ruth, Orpah and Naomi. She was the same person wherever she went. Ruth was a model of responsible living in an irresponsible age. The relationship between Ruth and Naomi is a reflection of the faithful love of God offered to Israel and to us in the gift of covenant. But Ruth refused to stay and instead went to Bethlehem with her. The good thing is that Boaz wasnt concerned about Ruths past. As we see in Ruth 1:16, Ruth chose that she will serve the God of Naomi even to the point of death as she had fully resolved and purposed in her heart. 4:17). Its four chapters . The saying that there is a light at the end of the tunnel is very true. It is unlikely that it was written before the time of David (cp. After completing this lesson, children will learn what it means to be redeemed by Jesus by comparing how Boaz was the kinsman-redeemer for Ruth. The Book of Ruth tells the story of Ruth and Naomi, Ruth's deep love for her mother-in-law, and the love and loyalty that not only existed between them but that Ruth had for Naomi's people. Woven throughout, God's lovingkindness shines in each detail. She made a choice to stay with Naomi and help her, all the while knowing that she was going to a country that wouldnt like her very much. Because Ruth was a childless widow of a Hebrew male, she was entitled to remarriage from a member of Mahlons family. Lesson 4 - Remaining Humble While Being Favored. Both of these women showed faith and clung to the belief that better days were ahead. The past is the past. Naomi even extends thanks and recognition to Ruth for providing her with a beautiful blessing. Doing the right thing isnt always easy. No matter what, work with excellence, even if the work is boring and you hate it. While you may be going through pain in your current heartbreak, its important to realize that this is all for a reason. And guess what, Ruth was consistent. She admitted that she felt that God had dealt with her bitterly. The odds of being taken into marriage were low because she was a stranger among the Hebrews. 3: Ruth appeals to Boaz to be the kinsman-redeemer. Love is a very interesting concept. He brought something to the table that marched Ruths hardworking and virtuous nature. For this reason, she was at a disadvantage. Ruth was taken and overwhelmed with his kindness that she bowed before Boaz. Ruths story is ordinary. Even though we are basically desolate because of our sinful actions, we will all be forgiven and have the opportunity to make our lives better. God will not necessarily stand in your way. The Book of Ruth begins with a tale of famine in the Holy Land. Elimelech passes away, and about 10 years later, both of Naomis sons die, as well. Mary was a young virgin who was already engaged to Joseph when she became pregnant with Jesus, and she showed great courage in her willingness to bear the scorn and shame that came with a pregnancy that occurred before marriage. : .. Naomi told the women, Go back home. Boaz was always ensuring Ruth had food. The Book of Ruth is literally the Book of Friendship. This tells us that Boaz had a good relationship with his employees. There is no bitterness or hostility that shadows over their relationship. Some conversations require perfect timing because of the issue that needs to be discussed. Naomi, later on, lost her husband and she was left with her two sons. His wife and sons stay on, and the sons marry non-Jewish women - Moabite princesses by the names of Ruth and Orpah. Although Boaz was in love with Ruth, he never pushed or pressured her to commit to him. Ruth, biblical character, a woman who after being widowed remains with her husband's mother. 4 They married Moabite women, one named Orpah and the other Ruth. The indescribable passion and struggles that accompany love is displayed in the Book of Ruth and these actions personify our own struggles that we come face-to-face with on a daily basis. In The Midst Of Bad Circumstances, The Lord Is In Control Of Your Life. 1:6-22: Widowed Naomi and her daughter-in-law Ruth return to Bethlehem. So he put plans in place to ensure no harm would come to her. In fact, when she returns to Bethlehem, she tells everyone: Call me not Naomi, call me Mara: for the Almighty hath dealt very bitterly with me. Naomi organized a plan to let Boaz know that Ruth is open for marriage. Through Naomi and Ruths mother and daughter-in-law relationship, were able to see the heavenly presence that takes place because of love. We cannot say for sure how old either of them were but there was a notable age difference. When Boaz decided to act on Ruths interest in being married to him, he was not willing to break the law or conduct underhanded business. The book of Ruth begins by looking at the life of Naomi. Ruth shows pure, boundless love to her mother-in-law. "Wherever you go I will go, wherever you lodge I will lodge.". And they respond with similar pleasantries. The characteristics of Ruth in the Bible makes for an exciting study! Because of Boaz's wise (perhaps shrewd) way of framing the occasion, this was the first time the nearer kinsman considered this, and it was a pretty big question to take in all at once. Rahab, the prostitute who escaped Jericho was Boazs mother. He owned land and servants. Ruth refuses with a passionate speech to Naomi: Entreat 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; Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the Lord do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me. (Ruth 1: 16,17 KJV). Sometimes it seems like I take my worries everywhere except to you. It doesn't matter if you're a male or female, God cares about everyone the same. Don't miss the rest of our series on loving your in-laws! On the day that Ruth decided to go gleaning, on that very day, Boaz chose to visit his field. Character its who you really are when no one else is watching. The love of a man and the love of a woman should always be considered as an equally powerful element. You see, we are all desolate as a result of our sinful natures. Ruth's and Naomi's journey from heartbreak to hope offers an Old Testament glimpse into God's redemptive power as He transforms a bitter widow and a former idolater into a family legacy . Memory Work - Luke 1:68; Scripture Reading and Discussion - Leviticus 25:48-49a, Ruth 4:1-17. He had not done what he was supposed to do. !!!! Everyone lives their lives the way it best suits them therefore, others shouldnt judge love. . The story of Ruth and Boaz in the Bible is one of the most romantic in Scripture. God doesnt not discriminate and wants His people to have the same viewpoints and understanding. The Book of Ruth provides many relationship lessons that perpetuate the meaning of true love. If you intend to move from where you are in life, you have to put some skin in the game. Just 10 years later her sons die, too. Naomi even extends thanks and recognition to Ruth for providing her with a beautiful blessing. 4: Boaz accepts and marries Ruth; they become the ancestors of David and Jesus Christ. Boaz was a prophetic symbol and his redemptive work lives on even today. Thank you xo much, may God bless you, Scripture taken from New King James Version. Quite often foreigners are not treated well, not even today. When you least expect it God provides His children with the things they need in life. God bless you. But it was Ruths love for Naomi that made her willing to leave her country to return to Israel. While in Moab, the boys get married. But we all know that reality is the furthest thing from a fairytale. And Boaz did not delay in calling a meeting to secure his rights to marry her. Everyone makes mistakes and no one should judge the other for their past actions as a man or woman. Since Boaz was the great-grandfather of David (4:21), the book recounts events that Both Ruth and Naomi, her mother-in-law, have returned to Israel from Moab widowed and forlorn. Neither of them knew how theyd survive. The world is not kind to widows today, and being a widow was even more difficult back then. Boaz described Ruth as a woman of noble character. Lesson 5 - Willing to Take Advice from Elders. In case you have been frustrated and despondent with finding your Boaz, know that God is interested in giving you the companionship you desire. And when you think of how friendship was all Ruth and Naomi had during a time of serious grief and . Here are seven lessons to learn from Ruth. The two women shared great sorrow, but they also shared great affection for one another. Boaz was driven by authentic love for Ruth just like Jesuss love for us caused him to give up heaven for our sake. So the Book of Ruth would roughly equate to the Book of Friendship in Hebrew. God is the perfect match maker. Ruth chose to go with her mother-in-law, showing not only how dedicated she was to Naomi, but also her dedication to the God of Israel. The book of Ruth is packed with so many lessons about, life, love and faithfulness. Lesson 2 - Obedience Brings About Breakthrough. Loss Is Hard. Ignorance isnt always bliss. There will be days where you completely mess things up and there will be other days when you succeed in every aspect. The Book of Ruth provides five lessons on what it's like to be a true leader. Now the way was clear for him to marry Ruth. The book of Ruth in the Bible is an anthology of love and forgiveness. so powerful and inspirational, may Almighty God bless those that put their head together to establish this work. After Naomi's two sons died in Moab, she decided to return to Bethlehem. And after Boaz had eaten and drunk, and his heart was cheerful, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain; and she came softly, uncovered his feet, and lay down. Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc Used by permission. Ruth went above and beyond in the way she honored and respected her mother-in-law, and in doing so became known in the entire city as a virtuous woman. She worked hard to provide food for her and her mother-in-law. Boaz therefore went to a meeting in which he was able to win Ruth from that family member. Ruth took advantage of what was available to her. It really is that simple! Ruth could have had her fill and left it there. 2: Ruth wins Boaz's admiration and protection. I went out full, and the Lord hath brought me home again empty. (Ruth 1:20,21a KJV). If not, you should probably get one. This short by fascinating book tells the story of a woman, who comes to Israel with her mother-in-law, after the deaths of both of their husbands. While Judges is about breaking covenant and leaving torah, Ruth is about keeping covenant . Ruth is the festal scroll for Shavuot, the Feast of Weeks, 50 . The book of Ruth presents the inspiring journey of God's people from tragedy to triumph. "I would like to go to the fields ". Hope in Trouble times. He and his wife Naomi, along with their two sons Mahlon and Chilion, left for Moab. The Book of Ruth provides many relationship lessons that perpetuate the meaning of true love. It is true that dating can be quite a drama-filled journey. Be wary of men who are uncomfortable with your relationship being public knowledge. Inside the Core this week, many students are reading the book of Ruth in the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament. At the time this story is unfolding, Israel had strayed from Gods will. Ruth was the great-grandmother of King David and the daughter-in-law of Naomi. Anyone is at liberty to use this lesson for educational purposes only, with or without credit. God has a redeemer for our lives His name is Jesus Christ. Just because one couple doesnt live like another doesnt mean that theyre any less or more in love than another couple. Elimelech of Bethlehem departs the country for Moab, taking his wife Naomi and their two sons along. There are only two books of the Bible named after women: Esther and Ruth. Naomi was too old to remarry or to work. 1. And this was in a time when women werent ordinarily included in genealogies. One of the moral lessons we can get from the bible story of Ruth is the importance of making wise choices as Ruth did in Ruth 1:16-18 that made her choose to stay with Naomi despite Orpah choosing otherwise. 7 Beautiful Ways to a Better Relationship with Your Mother-in-Law. It is like the looking-glass which my lady holds up to her face, that she may see if there be any spot on it. He says The Lord be with you. Ruth made the best decision because she decided to hold the family together at all costs. Kenneth Way September 26, 2016. We dont usually share our unedited feelings and thoughts about God with friends or family members. And Ruth, she also lost her husband. The love of a man and the love of a woman should always be considered as an equally powerful element. It seems that Naomis entire life crumbles in those years. She was so thankful, especially considering her status of widow which made her automatically become a part of the lowest class in society, right there with beggars, orphans and people with disabilities. 6 Naomi was a pious and charitable woman "whose ways were nice and pleasant." 7 Ruth considered her a spiritual guide whose advice . . It doesnt matter if youre a male or female, God cares about everyone the same. Even if you have to pay for it, itll be worth it. The funny thing is, she was just minding her own business not realizing that she was being watched. Ruth the Moabite is loyal to Yahweh and Naomi. Just because one couple doesnt live like another doesnt mean that theyre any less or more in love than another couple. Copyright by Michael Bradley and Chris Bradley, When People Let You Down: Dealing with Disappointment. Boaz was one such person but there was another who came before Boaz. But tragedy struck the family. In the Book of Ruth, both Naomi and Ruth are continuously blown away by others who thank and recognize them for what they did rather than what they may have done incorrectly. But even when her sister-in-law chose to go back, Ruth made a different decision. Application: God had a wonderful plan for Ruth. 1. 5. Ruth had no family in Bethlehem so Boaz did not have the opportunity to know about her through their eyes. We can learn a lot from the relationship of Ruth and Naomi, and loyalty is among the lessons. His father was Salmon, an Israelite prince. Key Words and Historical Background Notes. He was all too willing to do so. This story of Ruth . The sons too perish, and at last Naomi . The story of Ruth and Naomi is one of the best-loved stories in the Bible. He was a wealthy landowner and he earned his keep with his own sweat. Everyone loves in a different way and has a unique relationship that cannot be replicated or reproduced. Boaz was a family member of Elimelech, Naomis deceased husband. She pictured responsible living - 1:9-10, 14. Naomi is the one who sets the tone for her relationship with daughter-in-law Ruth. She wasnt hired but he invited her to partake of those provisions. Her two sons found wives, Ruth and Orpah, but 10 years later, both sons died as well. She stepped out and took advantage of what was available to her. Its a popular saying: Im waiting for my Boaz. This was the first romantic move he made. When two people fall in love its a beautiful thing. He was not in Gods will. As the kindness of Boaz increased, Ruth was invited by Boaz to eat at the table he prepared for his workers. And she took on a religion that she knew very little about just like Abraham. She might have been married before but now she was practically starting her life over. Just like the Proverbs 31 woman. Be Blessed. She had to go gather behind the harvesters in the fields to get a bit of barley so they could survive. Painful. This book will fill you to the brim with hope, as you see an imperfect family be used mightily by God. Thankfully, she had Naomi to help. She lived a simple live in obscurity. The Book of Ruth is more than just a story about someone whose life was changed by love, but it reveals how love can truly move mountains and change the course of more than just two people that fall in love. But when it comes to relationships, its even harder. She declared that she was going with Naomi to Bethlehem, left her country and her family behind, and refused to let her past hold her back. She is known for her faithfulness, loyalty, virtue, and love. There will be days where you completely mess things up and there will be other days when you succeed in every aspect. But life was actually worst. If there was ever a Hallmark-worthy story in the Bible, this is it. God heard her cries and helped her feel complete again. Even though Ruth wasnt a Jew and was a Moabite, God didnt allow those titles to change His love for Ruth. The book of Ruth follows the book of Judges in our Bibles because its setting was in that time period. Elimelech left Bethlehem which means the house of bread, to Moab which means waste or nothing. When Boaz is introduced in the story, the first thing he does is to greet his workers and servants. The truth is that this other kinsman should have already come forward to claim Ruth and help to get settled. Your email address will not be published. God is always in the business of rewarding the faithful. When it was just a matter of property, it was easy to decide on; but if he must take Ruth as a wife, that was another matter. We also see the freedom in their relationship. The saying that there is a light at the end of the tunnel is very true. However, the contents of this blog post may not be modified, compiled, combined with other content, copied, recorded, synchronized, transmitted, translated, formatted, distributed, publicly displayed, publicly performed, reproduced, given away, used to create derivative works and otherwise used or exploited (including for-profit or commercial gain) without the creators expressed permission. He immediately takes to her and starts to protect her. It was an enemy nation, and Israelites tended to look down on the Moabites. If we were to explore them all, this post would never end. Men and Women should respect each other equally. Early in the story we met Ruth and Orpah. Having dedicated herself to the God of Israel, Ruth, in chapter 2, begins to grow in her relationship and dedication to Boaz. She said the well-known words, "Whither thou goest, I will go" ( Ruth 1:16 KJV ). And thats why when youre dating you should probably spend lots of time outdoors or around other people. Your past is not your final destination when you make a choice in faith. The title of kinsman had heavy responsibility. From the beginning, God had a number of smaller things that needed to happen before the bigger plan could come into fruition. So she went down to the threshing floor and did according to all that her mother-in-law instructed her. Naomi was essentially empty and devastated after she lost her husband and sons. Naomi's grief was very real. So Ruth took on the responsibility of providing for them. Samson's relationship with Delilah is a far cry from Ruth's relationship with Boaz. 1. But we explore just a few that specifically have to do with dating. Ruth and Orpah made two different decisions. (6-7) Ruth lays down at Boaz's feet. He is still working. As women, we can look up to Ruth as an example of goodness and someone worth emulating. Mahlon was married to Ruth while Chillion was married to Orpah. Then she had to do the work to make it into barley flour. Both of her parents worked in the church. She was free to go back to her gods and free to search for a new husband to take care of her. They will not be disgraced in hard times; even in famine they will have more than enough. Remember to thank and recognize your partner each day. Tucked between the books of Judges and 1 st Samuel, it can be easily missed when thumbing through the Old Testament. Naomi was open with Ruth about the joy, the fear, the pain, and the anguish that came with her faith in God. Act 3: Ruth and Boaz are at the threshing floor ( Ruth 3:1-18 ). Beliefnet is a lifestyle website providing feature editorial content around the topics of inspiration, spirituality, health, wellness, love and family, news and entertainment. 2022 28 Jun. Id say yes but they were definitely not in her control. Love is organic and the Book of Ruth is just one of the best examples to portray these ideal. Both Ruth and Naomi mention Boaz as a kinsman. In Hebrew, the word used is goel, which refers to a kinsman who has the right to redeem or a redeemer., Throughout the Bible, we see that same Hebrew word used several times. However, Naomi stayed committed to her daughter-in-law and wanted her to follow the God of Israel. At that stage of his life some things were of little consequence to him. Ruth kept some of the food to take home for Naomi. The opportunity was there for her to glean. which revealed that our heavenly father do not differentiate. Go get married. Communication is one of the hardest things for human beings to accomplish. It takes great courage to leave everything you know and love to start a whole new life. If you are a Bible study teacher, you are free to allow this content to influence the lessons you teach or the sermons you present. 4. When two people fall in love its a beautiful thing. The law is also very useful, because it shows us our defections and stains. Ruth was a poor, hurting, outcast, widow. Their choices do not mean that one is better than the other. When Boaz showed up, Ruth was having a pretty rough season in her life. ISBN-13: . Even though it may not make complete sense during the time its taking place, its important to recognize how God has and continues to change your life on a daily basis with His actions. The passage suggests that he wasnt always there. God doesnt not discriminate and wants His people to have the same viewpoints and understanding. At the very beginning of the book of Ruth, shes living in Moab, her home nation. And again, after the night at the threshing floor, he gave barley to take home. This book is the story of a young widow named Ruth, whose heart had been broken by her husband's death yet healed by faith in the God of Israel. i. She had nowhere to go and yearned to feel complete, so she returned to Judah. Moab was a place that most Israelites didnt like. Terms of Use: The contents of this blog post are restricted to your personal use only. Instead couples should have equal say on what happens within a relationship and each voice should hold the same value. This was completely not her fault. Instead, he waited for her to choose him. Seek and heed the advice of the righteous. The book of Ruth shines like a beautiful diamond against this bleak background. While you may be going through pain in your current heartbreak, its important to realize that this is all for a reason. This chapter also displays the gracious provision and protection . She grew up in an evil country an enemy of Israel. She left behind her family to go with Naomi back to Bethlehem. Its there that she meets Boaz, who also turns out to be her redeemer. After Boaz secures his place as her redeemer, the two are married and are later blessed with a son named Obed the grandfather of King David. My favourite book in the Bible is the book of Ruth. It's very great to learn from the book of Ruth and it's very challenging book and great book very interesting to read this 7 powerful lession. There is no clear answer to this question in Scripture. At the beginning of the story, we meet Elimelech, the husband of Naomi. Boaz redeemed Ruth, but years later Jesus would become the redeemer for mankind. She took action. The Book of Ruth relates that Ruth and Orpah, two women of Moab, had married two sons of . She was childless. In that instant, she decided, Thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God.. Ruth allowed herself to be influenced by Naomi. Sometimes were afraid that sharing our questions and doubts and disappointments will turn other people away from God, when actually, sharing about our relationship with God openly can bring more intimacy to our relationships and help draw other people to their own faith. God heard her cries and helped her feel complete again. every one on earth will fail. 5) God has a Redeemer in place who can rescue us from the devastation of our own sin. He also made sure she got a little bit more than everyone else. He wanted to conduct things in such a way that it was above board and unquestionable. Copyright Feel The Words 2023. As much as is possible, try to get to know your significant other through the people he or she interacts with outside of your presence. Every relationship will have its ups and downs because no relationship is perfect. Her best days were ahead. Naomi told the women, Go back home. One day you will find your true love and all of the obstacles that you had to overcome will provide you with the strength for that love to withstand the test of time. The reality that Ruth experiences is relatable to couples in love today. Your email address will not be published. By Boaz, the man who could and would make her life a whole lot better. The point is, we cant say for sure but it is likely that he had a wife. Once they realize that their significant other doesnt have bad intentions when they make mistakes, theyll discover that their relationship will truly prosper. When Ruth and Naomi got back to Bethlehem, they had to fend for themselves as they were both widows. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. In fact, we know more about the relationship between these two women than we know about them individually. And whats so amazing is that Ruth was a foreigner. The choice is always yours. The Book of Ruth provides us with a great story about love. Can the same be said of you? Through Ruths story, we learn that God uses the most unlikely people for his purpose. Their sons marry Moabite women, Orpah and Ruth. With love does come heartache this can is seen through break-ups, divorce, or even death. We know that the other kinsman did not want to marry Ruth because he didnt want to divide his inheritance even further among his existing children. Tamar resorted to trickery to bear a son. 33 Short Bible Verses About . Each person within the relationship must understand that everyone has imperfections and its imperative that they come to terms with this reality. Introduction. The indescribable passion and struggles that accompany love is displayed in the Book of Ruth and these actions personify our own struggles that we come face-to-face with on a daily basis. Its heart-wrenching to lose a child. Boaz rescued Ruth from the brink of poverty and enslavement like Jesus did for us. Naomi's husband died, and her sons married Moabite women. Ruth was a stranger in the land. A secret relationship is a red flag. Naomis ability to be open and honest with Ruth about her relationship with God is inspiring. But she didnt. Lesson 3 - Working Isn't A Lack Of Blessing. Ruth is just a widow one from an enemy nation, at that. After moving to Moab with her husband and sons, she loses her husband and becomes a widow. We all must understand the importance of being thankful and recognizing others that make a difference within our life especially within our relationships. He asked them to allow some to fall purposely for her. On the other hand, Ruths husband had died leaving her without children and she was still young. She doesnt come from a famous family. And now, my daughter, fear not; I will do to thee all that thou requirest: for all the city of my people doth know that thou art a virtuous woman. (Ruth 2:11, Ruth 3:10,11 KJV). . Ruth was a Moabite, a nation of pagans and idol worshippers. Every week you will receive a devotional and a free printable PDF that will help you dive deeper into our Ruth Bible Study. I will not talk much about Naomi here as I have dedicated an entire post to her. That journey to Israel must have been frightening. As a widow myself, Im drawn to the story of Ruth again and again. In the Hebrew Bible, Ruth stands with the Song of Solomon, Lamentations, Ecclesiastes, and Esther; together they make up the Megillot, five scrolls that are read at prescribed times on Jewish religious festivals. The book of Ruth focuses on this romantic story that represents Jesus and what He did for us.

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