Naomi was essentially empty and devastated after she lost her husband and sons. But we explore just a few that specifically have to do with dating. The first concerns the happy accident of Ruth's He made kind gestures to reveal his heart to her and left it there. The Book of Ruth enables readers to view, in a small-scale way, the foundational biblical story of the exodus. The book of Ruth does not always get the respect it deserves. Set in the midst of great hardship and tragic loss, the story focuses on loyalty and faithfulness that starkly contrasts the pagan Moabite . Everyone lives their lives the way it best suits them therefore, others shouldnt judge love. Naomi told Ruth to bathe, put on her best clothes, and splash on some perfume. Painful. 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). His wife and sons stay on, and the sons marry non-Jewish women - Moabite princesses by the names of Ruth and Orpah. He also added that she stood out in the community for this quality. Once they realize that their significant other doesnt have bad intentions when they make mistakes, theyll discover that their relationship will truly prosper. My favourite book in the Bible is the book of Ruth. But, that was only half the solution to the problem. But what you do see is an ordinary and challenging life shaped by faith and guided by the God she believes in, and today we can look back and see the mighty way her life was used. Naomis husband had died but he died leaving two sons. Providing your significant other with gratitude will show them that you genuinely care and want to make this relationship last forever. The 3 life lessons from Ruth and Boaz are: Have An Attractive Character. Nineteenth-century American historian Elizabeth Ellet imagines that Ruth's beauty and foreign appearance attracted Boaz's attention.. She wasnt expecting this level of kindness and she that as a stranger this was very much out of the ordinary. Issues that require mental and emotional effort should probably happen when people are not tired and hungry. 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. They were being punished with a famine. When he tells them to allow more stalks to fall for Ruth to pick up, they do it. As Naomi pointed out, Ruth was free to leave her mother-in-law after the death of her husband. Naomi already felt that God had dealt very bitterly with her, yet she continued to hope. And yet it was that sharing and intimacy that was the foundation of the deep relationship these two women shared. Whether youre going through a break-up or divorce, there is a reason for all of the pain. Boaz invited Ruth to eat with his employees. They were living in Moab when both of their husbands died. 4. Its easy to judge others and caste your own beliefs and judgment upon the way theyre living their life; however its important to be able to see both sides of the fence. After moving to Moab with her husband and sons, she loses her husband and becomes a widow. Many interpreters read Ruth as a happy-ending romance featuring Ruth, the beautiful young Moabite widow who captivated the heart of the older wealthy landowner Boaz. There is Always Hope. All rights reserved. In fact, Naomi encourages both girls to go back to their parents and find husbands who can take care of them. Its evident that Naomi understands that God wants her to continue her relationship with Ruth and she expresses these feelings with thanks and recognition. Both of her parents worked in the church. She grew up in an evil country an enemy of Israel. 4:17). The entire Bible is about how God orchestrated history in an effort to save us. Just ensure that like Ruth, you are showing up in faith and doing your work with excellence. Ruth, biblical character, a woman who after being widowed remains with her husband's mother. There was no king in Israel and leadership was dependent on the judges that God selected. Ten years passed, and Mahlon and Chilion both died. Ruth 1:1: " In the days when the judges ruled,there was a famine in the land". It doesn't matter if you're a male or female, God cares about everyone the same. Ruth the Moabite is loyal to Yahweh and Naomi. Remember to thank and recognize your partner each day. They choose to stay together and forge a union. You will be surprised at how much growth will take place in your life and how much less the struggle to your next level will be. However, if we look forward and allow our compassion for one another fuel our outlook then we will see how love can flourish. He was wealthy. Because of the famine in Bethlehem he decided to move his family to Moab. Early in the story we met Ruth and Orpah. As Boaz observed Ruth in the fields everyday, working and interacting with the others, he compared what he saw with what people in their tiny town had to say about her. Go have babies. Lesson 1 - The Power of Loyalty. Which man is going to ignore a beautiful, well-dressed sweet smelling damsel, especially one who has already caught his attention with her character? The saying that there is a light at the end of the tunnel is very true. Monday, September 30, 2019. Both Naomi and Ruth experienced a great amount of grief, however both prevail Naomi loses her husband two sons. But when God is with you, whatever touches you has Gods permission and in those times, you also have Gods protection and provision. Stressful. Boaz was considerably older than Ruth. Its OK if you have some work to do in preparation for the man God has for you. Orpah decided to stay but Ruth decided to go with Naomi and start over in a new place. The book of Ruth is a fascinating tale of romance, intrigue, loss, disobedience, and ultimately of faith. For example, both belong to the same sex but from different . Both women had the very same struggles and the same decision to make. 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. Ruths diligence was being observed without her knowing it. The men leave three grieving widows behind. It is unlikely that it was written before the time of David (cp. By Boaz, the man who could and would make her life a whole lot better. Ruth is an interesting Biblical story because it contains no miracles or prophecies. About Us | Contact US | Privacy | Disclaimer | Back to Top. There will be days where you completely mess things up and there will be other days when you succeed in every aspect. In Ruth we see the attitude and character of one in whom God is pleased. 1:6-22: Widowed Naomi and her daughter-in-law Ruth return to Bethlehem. First, Elimelech dies then both Mahlon and Chillion die. Can the same be said of you? The story is told in the Book of Ruth, part of the biblical canon called Ketuvim, or Writings. Naomi planned to return to Israel and encouraged Ruth to stay in Moab and return to her mother's family. It was all manual labor. Obviously, the author was familiar with Israels greatest king. Life is hard but when youre when youre outside of Gods will, its hard with a difference. Boaz was ready to call Ruth his bride and wife just like Jesus calls us his bride. 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). Boaz was one such person but there was another who came before Boaz. God will not necessarily stand in your way. When Ruth made the decision to follow Naomi, this was a massive life transition. Naomi therefore had no idea that the hardships she was preparing to endure did not have to be her reality. Everyone loves in a different way and has a unique relationship that cannot be replicated or reproduced. Answer. Just because one couple doesnt live like another doesnt mean that theyre any less or more in love than another couple. It was their faith that was at the center of their relationship and intimate communication. He was not in Gods will. Finding someone to spend the rest of your life with is serious business. Boaz recognized that Ruth was quite vulnerable. The book of Ruth starts with the life of Naomi. The Hebrew word Boaz used to describe Ruth means some one of moral strength, sound integrity and courage. She moved to a foreign land where she knew no one but her mother-in-law. When the timing is right, the outcome of the conversation is likely to be more favorable. It tells of a relationship between two women-Naomi, the senior of the two, and her daughter-in-law Ruth. She said the well-known words, "Whither thou goest, I will go" ( Ruth 1:16 KJV ). . Every relationship will have its ups and downs because no relationship is perfect. This other characteristic of Ruth in the Bible often goes unnoticed. The Book of Ruth provides us with a great story about love. Tucked between the books of Judges and 1 st Samuel, it can be easily missed when thumbing through the Old Testament. Two of the most popular judges in Scripture were Deborah and Samson. Moral Lesson 1: The Value Of Making Wise Choices. God heard her cries and helped her feel complete again. Well, there is a lot to be said about her. 1. This would mean marrying the widow of the deceased and making children. Be wary of men who are uncomfortable with your relationship being public knowledge. There will be days where you completely mess things up and there will be other days when you succeed in every aspect. Boaz therefore went to a meeting in which he was able to win Ruth from that family member. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. We will start with some of the spiritual lessons we can learn from Ruth in the Bible. but, his promises are true and proved. He brought well-needed solutions. Later tragically, Naomis husband and two sons died. Act 2: Ruth and Boaz the Judahite meet in the fields ( Ruth 2:1-23 ). You never know whos watching you and has the power to fulfill Gods plans and blessings. But tragedy struck the family. Their choices do not mean that one is better than the other. Ruth was the great-grandmother of King David and the daughter-in-law of Naomi. But we all know that reality is the furthest thing from a fairytale. Id say yes but they were definitely not in her control. If there was ever a Hallmark-worthy story in the Bible, this is it. We all must understand the importance of being thankful and recognizing others that make a difference within our life especially within our relationships. The book of Ruth is a beautiful piece of sacred literature, applauded by many for its literary excellence. Kenneth Way September 26, 2016. 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. 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. 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. Perhaps thats what makes it so compelling. She was childless. Now that we have dealt with what it means to wait for your Boaz, there are some other relationship nuggets buried in the story. The Book of Ruth provides us with a great story about love. If you intend to move from where you are in life, you have to put some skin in the game. Beloved Lord God, It was Your intention that mankind live in fellowship with You eternally, but in Adam's fall from grace that bond of eternal fellowship was broken and for the first time man was in need of a Redeemer. It is unlikely that it was written before the time of David (cp. Boaz redeemed Ruth like Jesus redeemed us. Rahab was a prostitute whose faith saved her from the crashing walls of Jericho. She chose to serve the God of Naomi, and she believed there was still life left for her to live. First, I will tell you the summary of the story from the Bible, and then I will talk about the morals of this story. Its evident that Naomi understands that God wants her to continue her relationship with Ruth and she expresses these feelings with thanks and recognition. Mrs. Mckinnel would stay at home, while her father was the type of person who saw well in everyone. (6-7) Ruth lays down at Boaz's feet. 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. But one thing is sure: Boaz didnt add to Ruths stress. If not, you should probably get one. 1. It is HIS story. Love works in mysterious ways. Ruths faith was rewarded with a wonderful husband. Ruth allowed herself to be loved and led by Naomi. 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. Naomi and her daughter-in-law Ruth decided to move back to Bethlehem in Judah because they were heartbroken and lost. THE BOOK OF RUTH Lesson 3: Chapters 3:6-4:22 Boaz Becomes Ruth's Blood Redeemer Previous Ruth Lessons List. Relationships today are the exact same! She took action. Look out for a man who brings freshness to your life. Naomi and her husband decided to move away from Judah to Moab because of a terrible famine that was hurting their family. He wanted to conduct things in such a way that it was above board and unquestionable. Things will go faster and will be much better. At the beginning of the Book of Ruth, we meet Ruth, who is a Moabitess. We can learn a lot from the relationship of Ruth and Naomi, and loyalty is among the lessons. We also see the freedom in their relationship. Ruth worked from morning till night. 5 Spiritual Lessons from the Book of Ruth. Love is organic and the Book of Ruth is just one of the best examples to portray these ideal. On the day that Ruth decided to go gleaning, on that very day, Boaz chose to visit his field. For this reason, she was at a disadvantage. 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. A selfish man will give you headaches. Often, we think of the Book of Ruth as "outdated" or "too old," yet there are important lessons we can learn. For Ruth everything seemed hopeless when she lost her husband even worse for Naomi. No matter what, work with excellence, even if the work is boring and you hate it. Instead couples should have equal say on what happens within a relationship and each voice should hold the same value. We often feel like we need to keep our questions and thoughts about God to ourselves within a relationship. We cannot say for sure how old either of them were but there was a notable age difference. 3.9 Rate this book. In fact, we know more about the relationship between these two women than we know about them individually. God had an amazing plan for Ruth. 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. 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. This kindness is greater than that which you showed earlier: You have not run after the younger men, whether rich or poor. The Living Church of God bases its beliefs on the Holy Bible, the inspired Word of God. Key Words and Historical Background Notes. Both Naomi and Ruth experienced a great amount of grief, however both prevail Naomi loses her husband two sons. Have you ever heard of the saying, dont throw rocks at a glass house? Men and Women should respect each other equally. Lesson 4 - Remaining Humble While Being Favored. Ignorance isnt always bliss. But it is important to consider that at that time and in that society, it is very likely that he already had a wife. The book of Ruth follows the book of Judges in our Bibles because its setting was in that time period. God bless! Ruth was no Hebrew but God used her to continue the family line through which Jesus would be born. We dont usually share our unedited feelings and thoughts about God with friends or family members. 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 past is not your final destination when you make a choice in faith. But thats not what she did. Its easy to judge others and caste your own beliefs and judgment upon the way theyre living their life; however its important to be able to see both sides of the fence. Naomi was open with Ruth about the joy, the fear, the pain, and the anguish that came with her faith in God. He is still working. The book of Ruth begins by looking at the life of Naomi. God has a redeemer for our lives His name is Jesus Christ. The opportunity was there for her to glean. A man named Elimelech, from Bethlehem-Judah, left his hometown when a famine struck. The past is the past. Each person within the relationship must understand that everyone has imperfections and its imperative that they come to terms with this reality. While the two women have several things in common, they are different in some respects. Talent vs. Faithfulness: What is God Looking For? Ruth laid aside her pain, left her home and family, and turned her face to the future with hope as she journeyed to a new place with her mother-in-law. Ruth had a whole lot to learn. They have nothing, so Ruth goes to work in the grain fields so they have enough food to eat. Character its who you really are when no one else is watching. Chances are that he thought he would have had time to go back. Love is a very interesting concept. 3) Servant Leaders Show Extraordinary Kindness. Ruth Chapter 4: Fruits of Freedom. Through Naomi and Ruths mother and daughter-in-law relationship, were able to see the heavenly presence that takes place because of love. But there is a lesson in the book of Ruth. 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. The characteristics of Ruth in the Bible also include her being a hard worker, and someone who takes care of those around her. The couples two sons both married when they moved to Moab. Its every girls wish to have such a happy ending. Boaz is presented as a "man of character" ( Ruth 2:1 ). The intersection of their lives becomes not only the framework of an earthly love story but . So well only look at a few. A secret relationship is a red flag. Since Boaz was the great-grandfather of David (4:21), the book recounts events that Ruth and Naomi Relationship Principle #4 Trust God. Just look at all the immigration issues globally. Both of these women showed faith and clung to the belief that better days were ahead. Ruth made the best decision because she decided to hold the family together at all costs. When two people fall in love its a beautiful thing. In that society, kinsmen had a duty to make sure that if a relative of theirs died without children, that relatives name would live on. 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. Ruth 1:3: "Now Elimelek, Naomi's husband, died, and she was left with her two sons. 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. He died leaving his wife and sons among ungodly people. 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. Lets face it, no one is perfect! Their story is found in the Book of Ruth and it not only inspires hope for many, but includes 3 life lessons that can bring us opportunities, help us achieve our goals and live a stable life. : .. They choose to stay together and forge a union. This tells us that Boaz had a good relationship with his employees. Here we glean 13 moral lessons from Ruth's story. God be thanked for your love to me. Love was different for all of the women involved Ruth, Orpah and Naomi. In those days when men died before they had children, a male relative was responsible for taking his widow as wife and giving her children who would be considered the child of the deceased. Naomi's grief was very real. 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