Life is hard but when youre when youre outside of Gods will, its hard with a difference. Moral Lesson 1: The Value Of Making Wise Choices. Everyone can find something relatable in Ruths love story. It was their faith that was at the center of their relationship and intimate communication. All rights reserved. Examining the second chapter of Ruth. 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. 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. The Book of Ruth, the second of the Tanakh's five scrolls to be read on Shavu'ot, turns on at least one of these mandated forms of charity. Naomi reminded Ruth that she was free to leave and go back to her family. On top of that, she was a widow, she was childless, and she lived with her mother-in-law. He says The Lord be with you. This was a sign of her level of gratitude. . It doesnt matter if youre a male or female, God cares about everyone the same. We often feel like we need to keep our questions and thoughts about God to ourselves within a relationship. The book of Ruth is a beautiful piece of sacred literature, applauded by many for its literary excellence. Join me on this journey as we study the depth of . Nineteenth-century American historian Elizabeth Ellet imagines that Ruth's beauty and foreign appearance attracted Boaz's attention.. Men and Women should respect each other equally. He died leaving his wife and sons among ungodly people. God has a Redeemer for our lives, too, and His name is Jesus. It's loaded with life lessons; it teaches you about the importance of being at the right place, being ready for change, hope, determination, wisdom, generousity, strategy, kindness, favour, being at your best, the list is endless. She wasnt expecting this level of kindness and she that as a stranger this was very much out of the ordinary. True friendship is self-giving. She said the well-known words, "Whither thou goest, I will go" ( Ruth 1:16 KJV ). . Read Ruth 1. As you watch Ruth going to field to work daily and keep her integrity even Im poverty, does that describe you? After Naomi's two sons died in Moab, she decided to return to Bethlehem. There will be days where you completely mess things up and there will be other days when you succeed in every aspect. Granted, she needed some help from Naomi to see it but Ruth eventually gave Boaz permission to claim her as his wife. Tamar resorted to trickery to bear a son. The Book of Ruth provides many relationship lessons that perpetuate the meaning of true love. Later we see him ensuring that they have food to eat during their lunch break and he sits and eats with then. This is especially important when family isnt available. Early in the story we met Ruth and Orpah. Having touched God's heart, she also touched the heart of one of God's champion followers Boaz. Throughout the Bible, we see previews of Christ. And wasnt she quite the friend to her mother-in-law Naomi? Every relationship will have its ups and downs because no relationship is perfect. which revealed that our heavenly father do not differentiate. 1. Be Blessed. Ruth lived out her name for sure. Go get married. The book of Ruth focuses on this romantic story that represents Jesus and what He did for us. ( Ruth 2:2). Looking at the bigger picture of the Book of Ruth its evident now to see how the famine, Naomis relocation to Moab, the return to Bethlehem, Boazs blood line, and several other events had a hand in the overall plan for Ruths life. Both of these women showed faith and clung to the belief that better days were ahead. a. Anyone who looked at this foreign widow would have never guessed that God would choose her bloodline for the line of the promised redeemer Jesus. 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. 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. There are many things married and single people can learn about in the Book of Ruth. Every week you will receive a devotional and a free printable PDF that will help you dive deeper into our Ruth Bible Study. She chose to serve the God of Naomi, and she believed there was still life left for her to live. The Book of Ruth provides us with a great story about love. The meeting with the other kinsman was held in the presence of Ruth, Naomi and elders in the community. Related: How to Choose Faith . He died where there was plenty to feed his body but nothing to feed his soul. The Midrash points out that Ruth would only go to the fields with the permission of her mother-in-law. There was a law that provided this opportunity. Elimelech was trying to escape hard times by leaving Bethlehem to a pagan country. He made kind gestures to reveal his heart to her and left it there. Whether youre going through a break-up or divorce, there is a reason for all of the pain. Looking at the bigger picture of the Book of Ruth its evident now to see how the famine, Naomis relocation to Moab, the return to Bethlehem, Boazs blood line, and several other events had a hand in the overall plan for Ruths life. However, Naomi stayed committed to her daughter-in-law and wanted her to follow the God of Israel. When life brings devastation, its not easy to hope. Application: God had a wonderful plan for Ruth. If you intend to move from where you are in life, you have to put some skin in the game. God be thanked for your love to me. Love was different for all of the women involved Ruth, Orpah and Naomi. Samson's relationship with Delilah is a far cry from Ruth's relationship with Boaz. He owned land and servants. Kenneth Way September 26, 2016. He was not in Gods will. Ruth had a whole lot to learn. Naomi and her husband decided to move away from Judah to Moab because of a terrible famine that was hurting their family. Boaz is a type of Christ, meaning, he had many characteristics of Christ and foreshadowed what Jesus was going to do for humanity. 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 truth is that this other kinsman should have already come forward to claim Ruth and help to get settled. Naomi therefore had no idea that the hardships she was preparing to endure did not have to be her reality. He wanted to make sure she was ok. Look for a giving, unselfish man. Ruth was the Moabite daughter-in-law of a Jewess named Naomi. 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 Living Church of God bases its beliefs on the Holy Bible, the inspired Word of God. Boaz was ready to call Ruth his bride and wife just like Jesus calls us his bride. The two women shared great sorrow, but they also shared great affection for one another. Naomi loved Ruth, but she was willing to let her go back to her family. The reality that Ruth experiences is relatable to couples in love today. There is no bitterness or hostility that shadows over their relationship. From the beginning, God had a number of smaller things that needed to happen before the bigger plan could come into fruition. No matter what, they see it all and because they are there each day its easy to get lost in that safety net. As Naomi pointed out, Ruth was free to leave her mother-in-law after the death of her husband. Ruth is a woman of great character who embodies many positive traits. This in-depth Bible Study will take you verse-by-verse and chapter-by-chapter through the book of Ruth. Thank you xo much for all the lessons you have scooped out for us from the story of Ruth. (6-7) Ruth lays down at Boaz's feet. Lets talk a little about the man Boaz, what was so special about Boaz, and lessons we can learn from them. Ruth 1:1: " In the days when the judges ruled,there was a famine in the land". 6 Relationship lessons from the book of Ruth . But when God is with you, whatever touches you has Gods permission and in those times, you also have Gods protection and provision. Ruth and Naomi's friendship starts off with grief-stricken Naomi deciding to move back to her hometown of Bethlehem after the . In fact, we know more about the relationship between these two women than we know about them individually. 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. She owed nothing to Naomi, but instead gave her everything. Naomi planned to return to Israel and encouraged Ruth to stay in Moab and return to her mother's family. 1. Thanks for sharing some of it. They were living in Moab when both of their husbands died. The story of Naomi and Ruth are woven together closely that their stories are nearly inseparable. They choose to stay together and forge a union. Obviously, the author was familiar with Israels greatest king. 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. Your email address will not be published. Ruth's story is celebrated during the Jewish festival of Shavuot, the Feast of Weeks, 50 days after Passover. When Ruth and Naomi got back to Bethlehem, they had to fend for themselves as they were both widows. When two people fall in love its a beautiful thing. Naomi, later on, lost her husband and she was left with her two sons. Nothing is going in her favor, but shes brave, and her faith never wavers. Open your Safari menu and tap "Add to Home Screen". Boaz saw the beauty in love and accepted Ruth for who she was. Life changing conversations should probably happen when both parties are fully present and engaged. Mahlon was married to Ruth while Chillion was married to Orpah. No matter what devastating situation comes into play, love will conquer all because it is ultimately what brings people together. 4:17). But, according to the practices of the time, Boaz was free to take another wife, especially since he was a kinsman. Naomi was essentially empty and devastated after she lost her husband and sons. Ruth is also one of the few women who are mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus found in the book of Matthew. It was an enemy nation, and Israelites tended to look down on the Moabites. Boaz was considerably older than Ruth. When life brings trouble on us it is not easy to still hope on God for better days but this is exactly what God wants us to do. The book of Ruth starts with the life of Naomi. If you read the story carefully you will notice the divine appointment. Terms of Use: The contents of this blog post are restricted to your personal use only. Boaz is presented as a "man of character" ( Ruth 2:1 ). Our doctrines, practices, policies. But she cannot wash her face with the looking-glass. More often than not, youll find that love mirrors our reality in many cases within biblical stories. The intersection of their lives becomes not only the framework of an earthly love story but . 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. Ruth and Boaz had a child together and he also took care of Naomi. There was another kinsman who had more right than Boaz to claim Ruth. Their relationship offers a beautiful model of a good relationship a stunning look at a blending of lives. In a place where many would have thought shed be ostracized, she found love with a man named Boaz. Naomi's grief was very real. Be Blessed. God bless you. Book of Ruth: 30 Day reading plan for kids; Video clip of the Story of Ruth for kids; Ruth gleaning in the field coloring page "Book of Ruth" coloring page; Bible Lesson: Ruth and Boaz (older elementary) God takes care of Ruth & Naomi (preschool lesson) Lesson: Ruth is Faithful (Ruth 1:1-22) Lesson: Ruth Marries Boaz (Ruth 2-4) 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. Communication is one of the hardest things for human beings to accomplish. This other characteristic of Ruth in the Bible often goes unnoticed. After they had lived there about . God has a redeemer for our lives His name is Jesus Christ. Both Naomi and Ruth experienced a great amount of grief, however both prevail Naomi loses her husband two sons. 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. Here we glean 13 moral lessons from Ruth's story. But that was only until Boaz told him he would also have to marry Ruth as well. Instead, he waited for her to choose him. The story has three main characters: Naomi, Ruth and Boaz. Naomi was from Bethlehem and moved to Moab with her husband Elimelek and two sons, Mahlon and Kilion. Learn how your comment data is processed. As you read through the book of Ruth, you wont find any places where Gods voice thunders down to her as you might in other Bible stories. Stressful. . Ruths story is one that exemplifies the reality that so many of us are thrown at every day death, love, heartache, falling into love and even compassion for others that share love. Even though Ruth wasnt a Jew and was a Moabite, God didnt allow those titles to change His love for Ruth. There is Always Hope. Her name might have formed the core of the qualities she possessed. Despite the pain, Naomi chooses to stand by her daughter-in-laws side and continue their relationship. The story of Ruth is set during the time of the judges. 4. Lets look at a few strengths and weaknesses of Ruth in the Bible. Woven throughout, God's lovingkindness shines in each detail. The Book of Ruth relates that Ruth and Orpah, two women of Moab, had married two sons of . She had nowhere to go and yearned to feel complete, so she returned to Judah. Through love we learn how to deal with people and how we can become better people within our individual relationships and as an entire society. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. When were in a relationship, its relatively easy to subconsciously take advantage of your partner because they are with you each day. Each person within the relationship must understand that everyone has imperfections and its imperative that they come to terms with this reality. It might mean he was old enough to be her father. He hired people to help him manage his assets. They were both young women who had both lost their husbands. This tells us that Boaz had a good relationship with his employees. Just 10 years later her sons die, too. She was the same person wherever she went. 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. When Boaz showed up, Ruth was having a pretty rough season in her life. In short, do your part to make yourself a Ruth, ready for a Boaz. Don't miss the rest of our series on loving your in-laws! He made a decision that God didnt approve. Sell, buy or rent Meditating in God's Word Judges and Ruth Bible Study Series | Book 1 of 1 | Judg 9781953930200 1953930204, we buy used or new for best buyback price with FREE shipping and offer great deals for buyers. And Boaz did not delay in calling a meeting to secure his rights to marry her. Ruth means friend or companion. She could not be accused of being idle. Mrs. Mckinnel would stay at home, while her father was the type of person who saw well in everyone. First, I will tell you the summary of the story from the Bible, and then I will talk about the morals of this story. As a widow myself, Im drawn to the story of Ruth again and again. So well only look at a few. The book of Ruth presents the inspiring journey of God's people from tragedy to triumph. Lesson 4 - Fulfilling God's Plan. Things will go faster and will be much better. Look out for a man who is proud to call you his own. 2022 28 Jun. The first concerns the happy accident of Ruth's The book of Ruth follows the book of Judges in our Bibles because its setting was in that time period. These blessings point out how God works in the . Having dedicated herself to the God of Israel, Ruth, in chapter 2, begins to grow in her relationship and dedication to Boaz. But, that was only half the solution to the problem. Books to Keep You Company When Youre Walking Through Suffering, When All You Want for Christmas is a Baby, When Everything in the World Seems Wrong, Its Worth Keeping House, why God never calls us from something without calling us to something, When Christmas Leaves You Feeling Lost and Disappointed. Despite the pain, Naomi chooses to stand by her daughter-in-laws side and continue their relationship. 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. Yet she showed incredible character. Now the way was clear for him to marry Ruth. If she had to go it alone, it would be 10 times harder. Love works in mysterious ways. Chances are that he thought he would have had time to go back. In Ruth we see the attitude and character of one in whom God is pleased. Since Boaz was the great-grandfather of David (4:21), the book recounts events that Ruth worked from morning till night. Blessings occur seven times in the book of Ruth, from Naomi blessing both her daughters-in-law (1:8) and Boaz (2:19-20), to Boaz's casual blessing of his workers (2:4) and deeper blessing of Ruth (3:10), and climactically to the women blessing the Lord for the birth of the child (4:14). He was wealthy but he gave more than grains and barley. Although she was married before, Naomi seemed not to realize that Boaz had taken to her. There was no king in Israel and leadership was dependent on the judges that God selected. It takes great courage to leave everything you know and love to start a whole new life. However, Naomi stayed committed to her daughter-in-law and wanted her to follow the God of Israel. Love works in mysterious ways. It was all manual labor. God is always in the business of rewarding the faithful. God doesnt not discriminate and wants His people to have the same viewpoints and understanding. Naomi already felt that God had dealt very bitterly with her, yet she continued to hope. Act 3: Ruth and Boaz are at the threshing floor ( Ruth 3:1-18 ). It was a sacrifice for Ruth to refuse to return to her family. Its every girls wish to have such a happy ending. Through Naomi, Ruth learned about the God of Israel and chose to put her trust in him. I dont imagine that he solved all her problems nor did they have a perfect relationship. This would mean marrying the widow of the deceased and making children. Even if you have to pay for it, itll be worth it. 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. We also see the freedom in their relationship. Ruth could have had her fill and left it there. The second is that he set her up to get more than just what had fallen by the way as the employees worked. While you may be going through pain in your current heartbreak, its important to realize that this is all for a reason. When you least expect it God provides His children with the things they need in life. This means she was ready to be taken as his wife and to enter into a relationship of mutual submission and trust. In the book of Ruth, the character of Boaz represents the culmination of God's providence for the two destitute widows at the center of the story.In Boaz, Naomi and her daughter-in-law Ruth found a "kinsman redeemer," one whose responsibility was to "act on behalf of a relative who was in trouble, danger, or need." Boaz demonstrates, perhaps better than any other in the Old Testament . Boaz took interest in her and increased his kindness. Boaz was one such person but there was another who came before Boaz. He was wealthy. Boaz was willing to claim Ruth publicly. Elimelech had intended to go back home. Their sons marry Moabite women, Orpah and Ruth. Ruth was a Moabite woman and was considered to be a foreigner in Judah, which was a huge deal in their culture at that time. In the book of Ruth, we see Boaz as a type of Christ hes the redeemer of Ruth. The time of year is early spring, "the beginning of the barley harvest " (Ruth 1:22 ). Gentleman: if you want a relationship with a woman that glorifies God, read this. Others, like Naomi, remain in the relationship out of necessity instead of loving devotion. All Rights Reserved. Memory Work - Luke 1:68; Scripture Reading and Discussion - Leviticus 25:48-49a, Ruth 4:1-17. Elimelech passes away, and about 10 years later, both of Naomis sons die, as well. And when you think of how friendship was all Ruth and Naomi had during a time of serious grief and . But when things are the most difficult, thats when we need faith and hope the most. The Book of Ruth is a fantastic example that exemplifies the rollercoaster ride that love can take us on. The love story of Ruth and Boaz can be found in the book of Ruth. Ruth Chapter 4: Fruits of Freedom. But we all know that reality is the furthest thing from a fairytale. Elimelech of Bethlehem departs the country for Moab, taking his wife Naomi and their two sons along. Anyone is at liberty to use this lesson for educational purposes only, with or without credit. Ruth`s story was one of the best. Little Things Can Accomplish Bigger Plans. Lets face it, no one is perfect! Because of the famine in Bethlehem he decided to move his family to Moab. Every relationship will have its ups and downs because no relationship is perfect. When the meeting was done, Boaz publicly declared and celebrated his relationship with Ruth. Later tragically, Naomis husband and two sons died. It is HIS story. Ruth and Boaz got married and had a child they named Obed. At the beginning of the story, we meet Elimelech, the husband of Naomi. God does not enter into the story with fire or glory. No matter what, they see it all and because they are there each day its easy to get lost in that safety net. Since Boaz was the great-grandfather of David (4:21), the book recounts events that He also made sure she got a little bit more than everyone else. While there are many things to learn from the story of Ruth, here are seven powerful lessons from this tiny book that stood out to me. And they respond with similar pleasantries. 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.
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