Paige needed to cancel her teaching this week due to her father’s sudden decline. So we are going instead to do an overview of themes in Ruth drawn from my guide, A Woman of Love. Patti led us in a good prayer for Paige, but we will continue to pray for her and her family.
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OVERVIEW OF THEMES IN RUTH
Sunday:
1. So many of the ways we “experience” the presence of God can be seen in Ruth: in God bringing someone across our path, in answered prayer, in sensing his “hesed” or unfailing love through another or through His Word, or even in nature, for the land in the book of Ruth parallels the hearts of God’s people. How have you experienced His presence in this last week?
—I am being blessed by daily reading the Scriptures. Since the beginning of this year I started reading through the Bible using Paul David Tripp’s “Everyday Gospel“ devotional. Because of being down here in Texas and living in a two room Casita (it is very roomy in size) but not having to keep up a whole house and not involved with our home church and the many activities and involvements we have at home in Nebraska I am enjoying longer quiet times with the Lord. The theme of my reading in Exodus this past week has been centered in God’s gracious provisions for the people of Israel. I been aware of His presence and gracious provision in my own life.
Another way I have experienced God’s presence is when the skies are clear I see incredible sunrises in the mornings with a completely open view of the horizon. We have very large window facing the east. I truly feel God’s presence when I observe the incredible vibrant colors and that first blip of the sun coming out in its brilliance.
What a wonderful start for us, Bev, with the joy of a simpler life and a grand vista.
Bev, your post made me think of our screened-in porch east of our house! This week calls for warmer weather and I will brave the cold morning to sit out there and watch for the sun to come up!
Sounds so nice, no hassle and bussle.
I love God’s paintbrush all over this world. hat sounds so lovely, Bev! It is so easy to sense His presence in the beauty of His creation…..especially, at sunrise or sunset, over the water, or desert, or mountains or snowscape.
Sunday:
1. So many of the ways we “experience” the presence of God can be seen in Ruth: in God bringing someone across our path, in answered prayer, in sensing his “hesed” or unfailing love through another or through His Word, or even in nature, for the land in the book of Ruth parallels the hearts of God’s people. How have you experienced His presence in this last week?
I was bracing myself for a worse problem when I went to see my primary doctor this past Thursday for my vertigo. My myriads of symptoms were all related to each other and contributory to them was my stress level. I realized God is calling me to pause and take stock of my commitments. And when I had to say no to some “immediate” commitments that I considered important, the” sky did not fall”. I saw my illness as a demonstration of God’s love for me. I was praying to Him for relief, and He answered with His unfathomable ways.
He also provided a way for me just to sit, relax, and listen to a free online conference for women in small church ministries. I felt refreshed not having to do anything but show up. The conference had a prayer room, and I went there and prayed with some of the ladies. The prayer requests on the chat box were overwhelming, but we all knew we had a BIG God who inclines His ears to us.
That’s great, Bing. You have such a servant heart, but seems He is leading you into a quieter pasture for a while to refresh you.
Bing, you have been in my prayers. It’s amazing how our bodies manifest stress…praying for God’s grace and peace over you❣️
Thank you, dear Dee and Sharon. Somebody at the conference said that when we are “exhausted”, it can manifest in sickness, sadness, or suffering. I really mulled over that!
I am going with three friends tomorrow late afternoon for a chili fundraiser supper for our local hospital. I am grabbing the opportunity to hang out with these fun-loving friends instead of staying home and thinking of what else to do for school!
Bing praying for you. It’s so easy to create our own chaos when we think we can’t say no to things, but God has our lives in His hands and changes our steps, in His ways.
Oh, Bing! I agree with that you have such a servant’s heart and it is hard to say “no” sometimes when you need rest. Praying for you to enjoy time with your friends, at a place where you can rest from responsibilities, and just be in a place of joy and relaxation.
I felt His presence as I signed a song for the women’s study group on Tuesday. The song was “In His Presence,” recorded by Sandi Patti. The sign for “comfort,” as I interpret it, is laying my hand alongside my face and leaning into it. “In His Presence there is comfort, in His Presence, there is peace…” As I signed it was as if I was leaning into HIS hand, I felt Him holding me. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pv7uKCEaOhk
What a blessing.
I love Sandi Patty, Cheryl Ann!
Just reading this brings comfort.
Cheryl Ann, thank you for sharing this music ~ so soothing to the soul.
Sunday:
1. So many of the ways we “experience” the presence of God can be seen in Ruth: in God bringing someone across our path, in answered prayer, in sensing his “hesed” or unfailing love through another or through His Word, or even in nature, for the land in the book of Ruth parallels the hearts of God’s people. How have you experienced His presence in this last week? The small group that my husband and I lead studied a lesson this week about getting ourselves in position to share the gospel with someone by building relationships with those we are in community with, and in prayer for. The lesson asked who was most influential in sharing the gospel with us individually and we all shared. Then we prayed for the individuals we each thought the Lord was leading us to give the gospel to and planned a way to build relationship with them. Today our son made profession of faith and we invited his fiancés family to lunch afterwards. We were praying for her parents. I got a text from my son’s fiancée minutes before church that her family would not likely be there, but then they showed up! They were late, but they came and stayed for lunch, too. I took this as an answer to prayer. Her family has been struggling for years and we are praying things turn around. She sought out the Lord last summer and was baptized and her dad has started coming to church. Praying the spirit keeps working and giving us opportunity to lead them to Him.
How wonderful to see God working in people you’ve been praying for, praise the Lord for your son! I love that your small group is dealing with the real issue of reaching others.
Praise God for answered prayers, Chris!
That sounds so hopeful, Chris!
Thank you Lord for changing hearts.
Chris, May God continue this relationship with her parents. Praying for God to be present in their family and warm their hearts to Jesus.
1. So many of the ways we “experience” the presence of God can be seen in Ruth: in God bringing someone across our path, in answered prayer, in sensing his “hesed” or unfailing love through another or through His Word, or even in nature, for the land in the book of Ruth parallels the hearts of God’s people. How have you experienced His presence in this last week?
Last week I connected with a young woman who had asked to use our studio to get herself moving in dance again. She asked last fall but we had not connected. It finally happened! I know her through another dancer friend who is her mother. This young lady is troubled. I need to be at the church while she dances because she is not a member. The kids and I did a sort of homework club during the time. While I was there, the pastor and I got to talking and he mentioned that the young adult group was meeting that night. I didn’t realize they changed the night and got this idea that the dancer friend might be interested in this group. I mentioned it to her and she ended up staying and connecting with other young adults! She said she would come again. I’m so happy to be the “conduit” for her! Thank You Lord! Side note…I also asked our youngest son to go that night (free food!). I was so close to getting him to go but alas!, he did not 😔.
Oh, Laura! What a sweet God wink! I love your stories about how God uses your gift of dance to interweave your life with others.
That’s wonderful, Laura. Praying for you in court today.
I just love how God places us where he wants us to be. Praying for you and your family Laura.
Oh, Laura! I love seeing how you and your dance studio were welcoming this sweet seeker. I love that you are a “conduit” for her! That might be life changing for her!
Monday: Read All 4 Chapters of the Book of Ruth
2. What stood out to you from reading all of Ruth and why? The dire circumstances which Naomi and Ruth found themselves in, the great risk they took in traveling back to Bethlehem not knowing how they would be received, the great risk Ruth took going out to glean (knowing some are commonly assaulted), the risk Ruth took going to Boaz in the night, the incredible blessings on Ruth and Naomi through Boaz in Bethlehem versus the complete devastation in Moab, all in 4 short chapters! There are many who would give into despair and depression under such circumstances, but these women seek out refuge in the land of the Lord. Boaz recognizes this and says a blessing over her and redeems her in marriage and gives her a son. The whole turn of events is miraculous and gives hope to anyone in what seems to be impossible circumstances.
3. What questions did you have? This great story of Ruth shows so much to us of the way God can redeem hard circumstances -can we really expect this for ourselves today? Of course, this was a special circumstance in which the line of Christ was being laid out, but can we apply this to our own lives? Can this type of great miracle really happen for those I love in tragic circumstances ?
That’s a good question, Chris, one I have wondered too. Yet didactic Scriptures seem to say so — in James, that the Lord hears the prayer of the righteous, that we have not because we ask not. I see the same in Psalm 34. The Lord’s prayer. Truly, many Scriptures — would like to have others give others.
Chris,
As I consider your question about whether God can redeem hard circumstances I would say my own personal experience has taught me it is true. You know my story of how just about a year ago my husband and I were praying for our daughter-in-law who was an alcoholic drinking excessive amounts of vodka daily. We felt helpless and it looked hopeless but God amazed us by allowing her terrible accident and then healing her physically and spiritually and setting her free from alcohol within a few days. Granted all is not perfect yet in her life or the lives of other family members involved but she can tell you of the amazing redemption of her own heart toward God and she had a very hard heart. A heart like Naomi.
And I think God gives consistent evidence in the scriptures that He redeems hard circumstances in people’s lives. The Old Testament has numerous examples of people in hard circumstances that God redeemed for his good purposes but so does the New Testament. And I would say through out history every since there are a huge cloud of witnesses for us to observe and their stories in how God worked and moved through and in spite of tragic circumstances.
You asked “Can this type of great miracle really happen for those I love in tragic circumstances ?” I would have asked that same question but now
I don’t doubt for a minute that God can and that he continues to do these kinds of miracles in answer to our prayers.
“Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.”
Ephesians 3:20 NLT
Oh, I love how God redeemed your daughter in law, Bev. It has been a long journey, but nothing is impossible for God. I truly believe that He loves to redeem the most difficult and confused. As Dee’s book….(I love this title! )The Jesus Who Surprises!
Of course, you are all right, and it’s only my finite sight that leads me to ask this question. As you said, Bev, at one time you would have asked that with your DIL. And don’t we all in the midst of our darkest days? Some tragic circumstances are so dire in our eyes and yet, those are the very events the Lord leads us to new fresh pastures in. I suppose this is why the story of Joseph remains my favorite as he was brought through very tragic circumstances many times before the Lord placed him where he needed to be-and through it all, God was glorified. I do so appreciate the encouragement from you all. This is why the Lord gives us community, and why I keep coming back here. We cannot possibly walk through this dark world on our own. I thank God for each of you.
Great explanation on Chris’ question. I believe God can do anything in the lives of those who love and follow Him.
Sunday:
1. So many of the ways we “experience” the presence of God can be seen in Ruth: in God bringing someone across our path, in answered prayer, in sensing his “hesed” or unfailing love through another or through His Word, or even in nature, for the land in the book of Ruth parallels the hearts of God’s people. How have you experienced His presence in this last week? – Almost three years ago I moved to Tennessee away from friends and family that were close. But the transition was smooth and everything fell into place, including all the great people I’ve met. Some have become new friends, others are those that just talk to you while you’re waiting in line somewhere. Never before have I come across people that are that observant, looking at you and open to talking to someone they don’t even know. It’s such a breath of fresh air.
Julie, I’m so glad your move has been so positive and for the friends you’ve already made😊❤️. Thank You, Lord for going before Julie and her husband.
Amen to Sharon, Julie! I am so happy that you have had such a smooth transition and have met so lovely people. Thank you Father for going before Julie and her family.
Monday: Read All 4 Chapters of the Book of Ruth
2. What stood out to you from reading all of Ruth and why?
—Having heard Paige’s teaching on Ruth 1 and considering Naomi as being a pragmatic person and pretty hard hearted I had to take pause as I read again about her interactions with Orpah and Ruth in verses 9 and 14.
“….. Then she kissed them good-bye, and they all broke down and wept.”
Ruth 1:9 NLT
“And again they wept together, and Orpah kissed her mother-in-law good-bye. But Ruth clung tightly to Naomi.”
Ruth 1:14 NLT
What stood out to me was where it says V. 9 “she kissed them good-bye, and they all broke down and wept.” And V. 14 says “again they wept together,”
To me that reveals a very caring side to Naomi for her daughter-in-laws. She may have developed a bitter hardened heart because of her circumstances but she was soft to those girls and obviously they had had a meaningful relationship in the 10 years prior for them all to be weeping together at the thought of now separating.
—Another thing that stood out to me was the interaction of Boaz with Ruth when he said
“May the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge, reward you fully for what you have done.””
Ruth 2:12 NLT
From his previous comments in chapter 2 he had obviously had been carefully watching Ruth and had observed her character. This verse where he blesses her seems to speak to his making a spiritual connection with Ruth and not just a nicety. It is very affirming of her faith in the Lord, the God of Israel.
That’s a very good observation, Bev. I do think Paige was a bit hard on Naomi. “They all wept together.”
I love your insights Bev. I also noticed Boaz careful recognition of Ruth’s taking refuge under the God of Israel.
Sunday:
1. So many of the ways we “experience” the presence of God can be seen in Ruth: in God bringing someone across our path, in answered prayer, in sensing his “hesed” or unfailing love through another or through His Word, or even in nature, for the land in the book of Ruth parallels the hearts of God’s people. How have you experienced His presence in this last week?
We had snow this last week…7-9 inches, which we haven’t had since January 2018, so for us it is a rarity. I just sat at the window watching it silently fall to the ground. Enjoying the many different birds at the feeders, the sun shining through the trees which caused the snow to sparkle and my favorite of all, a beautiful sunset behind the snow covered landscape. In saying all this it made me stop and enjoy God’s amazing creation and praise Him for who He is…Creator, Eternal, Provider, Shepherd, Protector, Holy and Sovereign🙏
Sharon, What a beautiful way to spend the day, Praising God for who He is! We all need to stop and do this often. It sounds like a heavenly day and evening, soaking in Who the Lord is and His intricately designed creation.
Sharon you have described beautifully a wonderful scene. A blessing in this old broken world of God’s presence.
Monday: Read All 4 Chapters of the Book of Ruth
2. What stood out to you from reading all of Ruth and why?
Boaz’s love at first sight. In the languages of love: he spoke kindly to Ruth, looked upon her with kindness and asked the Lord to bless her, offered her protection in the fields, gave her food to eat from his own hand. She did not seek him out, and yet he showed her great kindness, asking nothing in return. I thought of how the Lord did the same for me.
I spent quite a bit of time looking at the genealogy at the end of chapter 4. It speaks of Judah and Tamar, who would not have been my choice at all, since Tamar was Judah’s widowed DIL. To me Pharez’s conception is a tale of lies and deceit, and yet the people point to Pharez as a good example And let thy house be like the house of Pharez, whom Tamar bare unto Judah, of the seed which the LORD shall give thee of this young woman.
3. What questions did you have? I don’t have any questions right now.
Cheryl — I remember Keller had a different take on Tamar in a sermon he gave on the genealogy leading to Christ. Judah had truly wronged her in not giving her his son after she was widowed, and Keller said preserving the family line was of great importance. And while what she did was wrong, Judah said his sin was greater and Keller agreed, as widows were so destitute and she had been dishonored. If I find the reference I’ll give it to you.
I was thinking more about Judah’s deceit and behavior, not Tamar’s. Do you think Judah took Tamar as a wife after acknowledging his sin?
Yes, according to Matthew 1:3 for Judah was the father of Perez and Zerah. Keller’s point was that in that culture the family name and line were very important, and for it to die out was a tragedy. I think the fact he married her despite his past fear that her husbands died, shows true repentance. But he certainly did not have an admirable past.
Monday: Read All 4 Chapters of the Book of Ruth
2. What stood out to you from reading all of Ruth and why?
What stood out to me is seeing the hand of God in every situation. His plan will not be thwarted and that gives me great comfort in my own life. Ruth could have ended up working in a field where she was abused but God protected her and led her to the field of Boaz. And just as she was redeemed by Boaz we are redeemed by the blood of Christ…His Sovereign plan and amazing grace.
I also like all the dialogue in this story. Paige said that dialogue reveals the heart and that is so true.
3. What questions did you have?
I often wonder what went through Ruth’s mind at the instructions Naomi gave her to lay at the feet of Boaz.
Love this Sharon Ruth could have ended up working in a field where she was abused but God protected her and led her to the field of Boaz. And just as she was redeemed by Boaz, we are redeemed by the blood of Christ…His Sovereign plan and amazing grace. In your answer for 3, I’ve always thought this was a bit strange.
My understanding is that Naomi realized Boaz needed a nudge, perhaps because he was not the nearest kinsman and because he was so much older. (See his response to her in 3:10-12) Her asking him to cover her is what husbands were supposed to do for their wives and points to the gospel covering our Bridegroom gives us.
Monday: Read All 4 Chapters of the Book of Ruth
1. What stood out to you from reading all of Ruth and why?
What seemed impossible became a beautiful story of return, forgiveness, love, and hope.
I am also amazed at how God used the culture of the times to bring about His will in having the other kinsman-redeemer logically consider what was at stake if he bought Naomi’s land and, in the process, would have had to take Ruth as his wife. And because he didn’t, Boaz had the opportunity to do so. All the “little” details point us to God applying His sovereignty to all peoples and His faithfulness to His character of being the same, yesterday, today, and forever. He also took on the laws of the land and fulfilled them for His glory and the good of His people.
2. What questions did you have?
Were Ruth’s parents still alive when she left Moab and went with Naomi to Bethlehem? Naomi advised Orpah and Ruth to go back to their “mother’s home”.
I guess we don’t know if her father was alive. Love God’s sovereignty too.
Monday: Read All 4 Chapters of the Book of Ruth
2. What stood out to you from reading all of Ruth and why? – I think Paige said that when Naomi stopped talking to Ruth, she was ignoring her. But when I read this, it seems like Naomi knew that Ruth was not going to give up and would continue to stay by Naomi’s side, so Naomi just gave in to how determined Ruth was because she wasn’t going to win that battle. I don’t get the feeling Naomi was being rude. I see too how God has placed Naomi and Ruth, where he wanted them to be. It’s all a part of his plan. Ruth being determined to not leave Naomi brought blessing to not just herself but also to Naomi. Also it seems that Ruth was a bit bold in uncovering Boaz’ feet and laying at his feet.
3. What questions did you have? – Some things that I wonder about was Boaz being a Jew marrying Ruth a Moabite. I did some searching and found that their marriage was acceptable because it aligned under the Levirate marriage where a man was obligated to marry his deceased brother’s widow to ensure the continuation of the family line. But I’m confused because Ruth’s husband was not Boaz’ brother-in-law, right? My next question was why did the women of the neighborhood name Boaz and Ruth’s baby? Doesn’t the father normally name the child?
Good question. I see it as her no longer being a Moabite but a new creation because of her conversion to the One True God. But the other is true too.
2. What stood out to you from reading all of Ruth and why?
I guess the part where Boaz goes to the other family member and that man gives up the land stands out to me. I think Paz really wants him to say no and he seems to give up easily.
3. What questions did you have?
Did he give up the land because he felt he shouldn’t marry a Moabite? Why does Boaz not seem to mind?
Laura, I searched about the marriage between Boaz and Ruth, my answer above might help a little.
Great question Laura. As soon as the nearest kinsman realized that Ruth’s son would eventually inherit the land, he wasn’t interested in helping her. Taking off the shoe was a sign of disgrace to him for reneging on his responsibility. Boaz was actually supposed to also spit in his face according to the law but we don’t see that recorded.
I just got an email that the Ruth episode for this week is cancelled. Paige’s father passed away over the weekend.
Lord, be with Paige and her family as they grieve the loss of their loved one. May they all feel your presence and receive your peace and comfort in the days ahead. Amen.
I agree wholeheartedly. Please Lord, surround them with your peace and love.
Amen to Julie’s prayers, Lord!
Amen. Prayers for Paige to trust her God even in this great loss, as she navigates the grief. Though we know we will see our loved ones again in heaven, the Lord works in our hearts in surprising ways through each loss we face.
Amen! Thanks, Julie. I know how close she was to her dad.
I agree with your prayer, Julie and all of your prayers for Paige and her family, as they grieve the loss of her father. I pray for her mother, siblings and the grandchildren, as well. She has spoken about him so often and he sounded like a wonderful man of God..
Have prayed for Paige this week myself. Agree with our prayer here too. Amen.
2. What stood out to you from reading all of Ruth and why? That so many things could have went wrong, yet God’s hand was through it all. Ruth’s faithfulness protected her.
3. What questions did you have? Do the 6 measures of barley that Boaz gave to Ruth after she slept on his feet, have any significance? 6 being double 3 which is a symbol of the trinity.
Also, after Boaz agreed to redeem Naomi’s family the men of the town gave a blessing to him (4:11-12) why did they mention Perez? I can see why they would say may your wife be like Rachel and Leah who built the house of Israel, but other than having the circumstances of his birth explained in Genesis, I can see no reference to Perez that would make him and his house stand out among their ancestors.
Dawn — you can see my answer above — Tamar, through deceit, maintained the family line and gave birth to Perez. There is no deceit with Ruth and Boaz, but Boaz action maintained the family line to the Messiah.
I just now read your answer. It makes sense. I was focused on Perez, but it was probably Tamar and her widowhood that they were acknowledging.
Tuesday: My Way or God’s Way
4. How were most of God’s people living in the days of Ruth which took place in the “days of Judges? See the last verse in the book of Judges.
Everyone did what was right in his own eyes.
5. Ruth is a little book of light sandwiched between two of the darkest chapters in Israel’s history: Judges and 1 Samuel. The book of Ruth contrasts individuals who go their own way versus those who risk going God’s way, and it is always a risk based on faith in God’s character. What risk did the faithful one take, and why do you suppose? Concerning question C, God decreed that the nearest relative should care for the widow, marry her, and raise up up the first son in the late kinsman’s name.)
A. Ruth versus Orpah (Ruth 1:4-18) Ruth took the risk of leaving everyone she knew and going to a place where she was not known and had no way of providing for herself. It had to be something she saw in Naomi’s character, of her faith in God, drawing her to follow her.
B. Elimelech versus Boaz (Ruth 1:1 and Ruth 2-4) Boaz is faithful to the ways of the Lord beyond what Elimelech was in every way-he stayed in the land of his God throughout the famine, he has been true to his workers and to those who come along his path. He seems to have searched out Ruth and wants to see her rewarded for caring for Naomi.
C. The unnamed kinsman-redeemer versus Boaz (Deuteronomy 25:5-10 and Ruth 4:1-10) This man was happy to take what he could for material gain, but did not want to be saddled with more debt in the care of two widows.
6. Share a time when either you failed to go God’s way or took a risk based on faith and obeyed. What were the results? The adoption of our son was a risk based on faith. We did not seek out to adopt a three year old at the age of 53, nor did we see how this could possibly make any sense in a worldly way. It was only faith that led us to this decision when the Lord clearly put this child in our lives. Here we are 4 years later, and though challenging, the blessings are evident and we know that the Lord is working in his heart (and ours) and healing him of his past.
Love the adoption story, Chris.
Your adoption story gives me good chills of God’s love and goodness and your obedience to His prompting. Thank you for sharing, Chris.
Tuesday: My Way or God’s Way
4. How were most of God’s people living in the days of Ruth which took place in the “days of Judges? See the last verse in the book of Judges.
—“…..all the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes.”
Judges 21:25 NLT
5…. The book of Ruth contrasts individuals who go their own way versus those who risk going God’s way, and it is always a risk based on faith in God’s character. What risk did the faithful one take, and why do you suppose?
—They chose to trust God in spite of facing uncertainty about their lives. As to why it would seem they each had some reason to trust God’s character. Perhaps it was from what they knew about ways He had worked and the wonders He had done for Israel. It had to be some form of teaching and exposure that gave them knowledge about God.
6. Share a time when either you failed to go God’s way or took a risk based on faith and obeyed. What were the results?
—In our twenties after my husband graduated from college we had moved back to our home town where he started a new job. We became disgruntled with our church and for a whole summer we just stopped going. That had never ever been the habit of our lives. We bought a boat with a friend and started camping and going to a lake. I look back and realize it was a very unsettled time with a lack of peace and purpose. Spiritually there was an unhealthy pull on our lives away from the Lord. God in his rescuing grace brought an older godly couple into our lives who loved on us and started a bible study with us. As a result we became part of a fledgling church that God grew and He blessed us with an older godly pastor who taught us God’s Word and was an example of great faith in God.
I loved seeing how the older couple did come preaching at you, but loved on you.
Me too!
Tuesday: My Way or God’s Way
4. How were most of God’s people living in the days of Ruth which took place in the “days of Judges? See the last verse in the book of Judges.
They were doing whatever seemed right in their own eyes.
5. Ruth is a little book of light sandwiched between two of the darkest chapters in Israel’s history: Judges and 1 Samuel. The book of Ruth contrasts individuals who go their own way versus those who risk going God’s way, and it is always a risk based on faith in God’s character. What risk did the faithful one take, and why do you suppose? Concerning question C, God decreed that the nearest relative should care for the widow, marry her, and raise up up the first son in the late kinsman’s name.)
A. Ruth versus Orpah (Ruth 1:4-18)
Ruth took the risk of leaving her country and going to an unknown country where she was a foreigner. I think she took the risk as she must of seen something in Naomi that attracted her to the true God.
B. Elimelech versus Boaz (Ruth 1:1 and Ruth 2-4)
Boaz took the risk of staying in Bethlehem during the famine because he trusted in the Lord to provide.
C. The unnamed kinsman-redeemer versus Boaz (Deuteronomy 25:5-10 and Ruth 4:1-10)
One thing that stands out to me here is that Boaz made sure he did everything according to tradition even if it meant losing Ruth. I think God honored Boaz because of that and also Boaz put the outcome into Gods hands.
6. Share a time when either you failed to go God’s way or took a risk based on faith and obeyed. What were the results?
We took a risk when we moved from Oregon to NC. There were many times we tried to move to others parts of Oregon and God always closed the door…it was our plan, not His. Those experiences caused us to question this “big” move…was it His plan or ours? When we saw everything just fall into place, no closed doors, specific prayers being answered about the job opportunity and trusting God, we left behind family, friends and the known for the unknown. After being here for 30 years now, I know God went before us in so many ways and for that I am thankful.
Love this, Sharon: I think God honored Boaz because of that and also Boaz put the outcome into Gods hands. Thank you for sharing your story of moving from Oregon to NC! I knew part of it, but I did not know you had been in NC that long! So encouraging for me!
Tuesday: My Way or God’s Way
4. How were most of God’s people living in the days of Ruth which took place in the “days of Judges? See the last verse in the book of Judges. – Everyone was doing what they thought was right in their own eyes. Living in chaos I would think.
5. Ruth is a little book of light sandwiched between two of the darkest chapters in Israel’s history: Judges and 1 Samuel. The book of Ruth contrasts individuals who go their own way versus those who risk going God’s way, and it is always a risk based on faith in God’s character. What risk did the faithful one take, and why do you suppose? Concerning question C, God decreed that the nearest relative should care for the widow, marry her, and raise up the first son in the late kinsman’s name.)
A. Ruth versus Orpah (Ruth 1:4-18) – Ruth clung to Naomi, I wonder if she felt it was now her responsibility to care for Naomi as they were both widows. Orpah, listened to Naomi and stayed with her own people and gods. I just wonder as I read this again, why Naomi wouldn’t want her daughter in laws to have a relationship with her God. The One True God.
B. Elimelech versus Boaz (Ruth 1:1 and Ruth 2-4) – Elimelech took it upon himself to leave and go to Moab because of the famine. Boaz did not and was known as a wealthy man. Elimelech did not search out God’s plan for his life. Boaz seemed to follow God’s plan for his life.
C. The unnamed kinsman-redeemer versus Boaz (Deuteronomy 25:5-10 and Ruth 4:1-10) – The unnamed kinsman went against the law and thought about himself over the widow and doing what was required of him. Boaz stepped up and did the right thing. He didn’t worry about the legalities of the first born. But I still am confused as to why the marriage was to Ruth and not Naomi. Does age have anything to do with it. It really doesn’t say in Ruth that I can see that Naomi stepped aside and gave Ruth to Boaz.
6. Share a time when either you failed to go God’s way or took a risk based on faith and obeyed. What were the results? – I question myself all the time if I’m following God’s plan for my life. Two big risks that I feel were prayed about, thought through, sought the Lord and guided by him were my divorce and our move to Tennessee. Both were scary, but I felt God led the way in both of these times. Sermons seemed to come up that confirmed to me it would be ok. Scriptures that I stood on and counsel I received from a trusted pastor helped me move forward in divorce proceedings. And after it was all done, I was ok and had everything I needed supplied to me by God in His time. Our move to Tennessee, with leaving family behind and the delay in finding our new home, made my husband think God didn’t want us down here. But I felt He had something better for us and our ‘new’ home was not out there. We did find the home we asked Him for in every way. God is good, all the time. Thank you, Lord, for your guidance and provisions along the way.
God’s faithfulness in the face of uncertainty, thanks for sharing, Julie.
Your question, Julie, about why Naomi wouldn’t want her daughters-in-law to have a relationship with the one true God is a good one. I can only think she had despaired of God for a season. How many of the steps away from God were her decision, I don’t know.
1. So many of the ways we “experience” the presence of God can be seen in Ruth: in God bringing someone across our path, in answered prayer, in sensing his “hesed” or unfailing love through another or through His Word, or even in nature, for the land in the book of Ruth parallels the hearts of God’s people. How have you experienced His presence in this last week?
I truly have felt His Presence this past week, so much through the prayer needs, prayer answers and sharing of needs on our blog. This lesson has been so rich in bringing the reality of Trusting in Jesus, to my heart. I learned a great lesson about never being bitter about what God allows in my life, as I do not see His big picture. I have seen answers to prayer that are quietly and slowly happening around me. I thank God for His faithfulness, though I don’t know exactly where He is leading me. My daughter and I are both doing The Bible, beginning to end ~ on a podcast. It has been so good to talk about the lessons after we listen, separately. Praising God that my daughters are thirsting to learn more about the Lord! Thank you Jesus for taking all of my failures to the cross.
Patti, I just love your heart and this whole post. Jim and I are reading through the Bible chronologically and it is such a joy to discuss what we have read just as you and your daughter are doing…I really believe it draws us closer together as I believe it will for you and your daughter.
Sharon and Dee! Yes, it is pure joy and draws us closer and give us more gentle hearts!
Patti — I rejoice to read all of this!!!
2. What stood out to you from reading all of Ruth and why?
I think the grace of God is so evident in Ruth’s insistence in staying with Naomi; in Naomi encouraging her in the relationship with Boaz. Boaz was aware of Ruth’s willingness to work in the field for long hours and her care for her mother in law. He saw the value in her as a person and he wanted to be her redeemer. She was genuine in her kindness, and not seeking after the young men. Boaz felt he was too old for her, and offered her to a younger man, who was afraid of losing his inheritance. I love that Boaz protected her and took her for his wife, so that she could have children, a son, to carry on the family name. And Obed became part of the genealogy of Jesus. It is such a sweet story of Redemption.
I agree with all that you took from the scripture. It reads like a fairy tale. 🩷
4. How were most of God’s people living in the days of Ruth which took place in the “days of Judges? See the last verse in the book of Judges.
In those days people only did what was right in their own eyes.
5. Ruth is a little book of light sandwiched between two of the darkest chapters in Israel’s history: Judges and 1 Samuel. The book of Ruth contrasts individuals who go their own way versus those who risk going God’s way, and it is always a risk based on faith in God’s character. What risk did the faithful one take, and why do you suppose? Concerning question C, God decreed that the nearest relative should care for the widow, marry her, and raise up up the first son in the late kinsman’s name.)
A. Ruth versus Orpah (Ruth 1:4-18)
Orpah did not have any faith in God, and she turned back to her homeland, perhaps fear of the unknown and not understanding God. Orpah probably thought her life would be what she had always known and that was more comfortable for her. Ruth wanted to know God; she put her trust in the true God and she cared for her mother in law and wanted to be with her.
B. Elimelech versus Boaz (Ruth 1:1 and Ruth 2-4)
Elimelech took his wife and boys from the Promised land to the land of the godless. He was a man who did not trust in God, and put his family in great jeopardy. Boaz was a man of God and followed His leading, caring for and marrying Ruth.
C. The unnamed kinsman-redeemer versus Boaz (Deuteronomy 25:5-10 and Ruth 4:1-10)
The kinsman in Deuteronomy did not act as he should have taking care of the his deceased brother’s wife. Naomi encouraged Ruth to lay at the feet of Boaz, and Boaz was willing to follow God’s directive for him, caring for the widow of his close relative. He offered her to a younger relative, but stood by her when that man rejected the idea.
6. Share a time when either you failed to go God’s way or took a risk based on faith and obeyed. What were the results?
I have definitely failed to go God’s way at times in my life. After I lost my husband, I had no family close by. Moving my entire life from the West coast to the East coast was a huge risk for me, but I prayed each step of the way about moving and followed God’s leading. I am here, like a foreign person in a foreign country, but God is good and He is leading me. I am trusting Him, though I do not know His plan.
I’ll be praying for you, Laura.
You have made a Ruth kind of move, Patti — but I already see God blessing you.
Yes, He is Dee. He is showing me His power, even when I don’t know how to pray! We worship an Awesome God!
I meant I’ll be praying for you, Patti. I sometimes get mixed up when I’m reading comments all at the same time. I do keep a list of requests though for this group, and that will keep me on track and focused correctly.
No worries, Cheryl. It is easy to get mixed up! I write down others’ requests too. 🙂
4. How were most of God’s people living in the days of Ruth which took place in the “days of Judges? See the last verse in the book of Judges.
Doing anything they wanted without concern for the Lord.
5. Ruth is a little book of light sandwiched between two of the darkest chapters in Israel’s history: Judges and 1 Samuel. The book of Ruth contrasts individuals who go their own way versus those who risk going God’s way, and it is always a risk based on faith in God’s character. What risk did the faithful one take, and why do you suppose?
The faithful one is presumably Ruth? Ruth risked her life by going with Naomi, as she was a Moabite. Moabite were not those to commiserate with in those days.
A. Ruth versus Orpah (Ruth 1:4-18)
Ruth stated and Orpah left.
B. Elimelech versus Boaz (Ruth 1:1 and Ruth 2-4)
Elimelech left when the going got tough. He dies. Boaz looked for a way to help Ruth and ended up part of the lineage of Christ.
C. The unnamed kinsman-redeemer versus Boaz (Deuteronomy 25:5-10 and Ruth 4:1-10)
He doesn’t follow the law and Boaz does.
6. Share a time when either you failed to go God’s way or took a risk based on faith and obeyed. What were the results?
I’m taking the risk right now with my grands. I’m trying to obey. It has been a long and sad journey. I never know if we are doing the right thing. I pray and trust that God will lead. I do not worry. It is in His hands. Unfortunately, in the end, someone will be hurt. Mostly the grands. That makes me sad. My daughter might be hurt. That makes me sad. My husband and I might be hurt, that makes me sad. I ask God why I can’t have a normal family. He is silent. I continue to have faith. We shall see the outcome, but not until March. The Bible characters and their horrible (at times) stories do encourage me. I try to remember them and not question too much.
Laura, your love and faithfulness come shining through in your humble dependence on the Lord. I’ll be praying.
Thank you Cheryl Ann. I woke up today thinking about my children as littles. We were a “normal” family. They were cute and sweet. Then…ugh! The world takes hold and they forget who they are. I think there is a lesson for me somewhere in there. We went to church every week. We didn’t do a good job teaching them who they truly belong to. I need to make sure the grands know they belong to Him. I think we have a good start.
Laura — you are such a good example of dealing with regret. We can’t change the past but we can use those regrets to make different choices going forward — and you are!
Oh, Laura! You are an amazing grandmother and a woman of God. Your enduring faith always speaks to my heart. I think we all have regrets as parents; no one gets a set of “practice kids” and I don’t think I know a “normal” family. Thankfully, the Lord is our Redeemer! I pray for you, your children and your grands.
Tuesday: My Way or God’s Way
4. How were most of God’s people living in the days of Ruth which took place in the “days of Judges? See the last verse in the book of Judges.
They were living in a way that seemed right to each family. There was a mixture of idol worship with acknowledgement of God.
5. Ruth is a little book of light sandwiched between two of the darkest chapters in Israel’s history: Judges and 1 Samuel. The book of Ruth contrasts individuals who go their own way versus those who risk going God’s way, and it is always a risk based on faith in God’s character. What risk did the faithful one take, and why do you suppose? Concerning question C, God decreed that the nearest relative should care for the widow, marry her, and raise up up the first son in the late kinsman’s name.)
A. Ruth versus Orpah (Ruth 1:4-18) Orpah turned back, believing all arguments that Naomi put forth, she could not face uncertainty. Ruth risked leaving her native country and family to go to a strange country with an uncertain future, a foreigner who was a widow. She loved Naomi and did not want to be separated from her. We don’t know how much she knew about the Lord, but she knew enough to willingly leave idols behind and claim Him as her God.
B. Elimelech versus Boaz (Ruth 1:1 and Ruth 2-4) Elimelech took his family to a pagan land looking for food. Thinking it would be just a short visit, it became a series of tragic events. He was not willing to stay in Bethlehem and wait upon the Lord. He might have thought he was doing the best thing for his family. Boaz was faithful to God and had stayed in Bethlehem during the famine. God had blessed and the crops were plentiful. Boaz took a risk by singling out Ruth, a foreigner, with his personal attention. He took a risk when he told her that he would marry her that night at the threshing floor. He took a risk offering the other kinsman the right to buy Naomi’s land, when Boaz really wanted it (and Ruth) himself.
C. The unnamed kinsman-redeemer versus Boaz (Deuteronomy 25:5-10 and Ruth 4:1-10)
The unnamed kinsman said he would redeem the land, and said it quickly, until he found out the responsibility of taking Ruth as wife. Boaz took a risk by publicly announcing his intentions to redeem the land and marry Ruth.
I love the way Ruth had such a splendid reputation in Bethlehem. It speaks to her humble, loving attitude and willingness to help Naomi. She must have been a faithful Jewish proselyte by this time, which also endeared her to the people.
6. Share a time when either you failed to go God’s way or took a risk based on faith and obeyed. What were the results?
The example that comes to mind is the Bible study group at my home church. For several YEARS the Lord laid the desire to start a women’s study group at church. I always talked myself out of it: I don’t speak well…no one would come…who am I to lead a study group… And so nothing happened.
In the spring of 2023 I finally stepped out in faith to start a group. I made the commitment to be at the church weekly whether anyone came or not. Those first few months few women came, and no one came consistently. I was discouraged, but I reminded myself of that commitment. Later that fall, using The Women of Christmas the group grew to seven women, who came faithfully. Our spring 2024 group was eight, and this past fall we had ten. I have seen these women grow in grace, knowledge, and friendship.
I have regret that I did not begin this sooner, but I focus on the present and how the Lord is working in each woman’s life.
Beautiful closing story of faithfulness reaping rewards.
What a sweet story and lesson of your Bible Study, Cheryl Ann. Thank you for sharing this. The Lord has used your gifts and you have touched the lives of others.
Such faithfulness! I’m so glad the group had grown.
I love your commitment. It’s tough to get started but the women attending must see your faith in the Lord and be blessed by that.
Tuesday: My Way or God’s Way
1. How were most of God’s people living in the days of Ruth which took place in the “days of Judges? See the last verse in the book of Judges.
Everyone did as they saw fit.
5. Ruth is a little book of light sandwiched between two of the darkest chapters in Israel’s history: Judges and 1 Samuel. The book of Ruth contrasts individuals who go their way versus those who risk going God’s way, and it is always a risk based on faith in God’s character. What risk did the faithful one take, and why do you suppose? Concerning question C, God decreed that the nearest relative should care for the widow, marry her, and raise up up the first son in the late kinsman’s name.)
A. Ruth versus Orpah (Ruth 1:4-18)
For Ruth: leaving familiar grounds, no “prospect” of a husband or posterity, a bitter woman in Naomi as a companion, going to a place where she would risk her reputation, and perhaps her safety.
B. Elimelech versus Boaz (Ruth 1:1 and Ruth 2-4)
Elimelech chose to leave the land of his God seeking provision while Boaz stayed in God’s land and provided for others.
C. The unnamed kinsman-redeemer versus Boaz (Deuteronomy 25:5-10 and Ruth 4:1-10)
Boaz took the risk of spending the rest of his life providing for Ruth and Naomi and whoever else he and Ruth would have raised as children. He also risked his status and reputation as he would marry a foreigner.
Nothing is said of an angel visiting Boaz to take Ruth as his wife just as Joseph had with Mary. Since Boaz was a lot older, and was a man of good repute, he must have had some stirrings in his heart to be inclined toward Ruth. Aaaww… What an example of waiting on God!
2. Share a time when either you failed to go God’s way or took a risk based on faith and obeyed. What were the results?
I wish there were not too many times when I failed to go God’s way, especially in my relationships. The results were pain, sorrow, and disappointment. I am thankful that God did not give up on me and wooed me back to Himself. The verse in Psalm 73: 25-26 is so true: Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. “
This morning, I listened to Susan Boyle’s rendition of Abba’s, “You have to be there”. Without you, I would be drifting on the dark stormy sea… Thank God, He has not left me drifting and has blessed me more than I ever deserve.
I see such beauty in you, Bing — I think much of that springs from your humble heart.
Amen to Dee, Bing!
This is beautiful. I wish the same.
7. The book of Ruth is saturated in prayer. Even when Naomi is in high-tide grief, she is both petitioning and lamenting. Find the following prayers and share how they were answered.
A. Naomi prays for Ruth and Orpah (Ruth 1:8)
She asks God to reward the two for their kindness to Naomi and her family. Not sure about Orpah, but Ruth ends up married and in Christ’s lineage.
B. Boaz and his workers pray (Ruth 2:4)
They are all blessed by the harvest and Boaz is personally blessed by knowing Ruth.
C. Boaz prays for Ruth (Ruth 2:11-12)
Boaz acknowledges Ruth’s sacrifice to be where she is and Ruth is blessed by God in the present situation.
D. Naomi prays for Boaz (Ruth 2:19-20)
Boaz’s kindness helps Ruth and Naomi both immediately and in the future.
E. Boaz prays for Ruth (Ruth 3:10-13)
Boaz recognizes Ruth’s commitment to his family. He makes sure she will have the best situation in the end.
F. The elders and people of Bethlehem pray for Boaz and Ruth (Ruth 4:11-13)
They pray that Ruth is like Leah and Rachel. They pray that the couple is blessed with a child to continue the lineage. They pray for the descendants of the couple also.
8. Share a time when you were absolutely sure that God answered one of your prayers. What gave you confidence that He did?
It has happened many times for me, however the most “in my face” time was as I prayed on my bed for our son who had run away the night before, the phone rang. I answered it and it was a woman whom I did not know. She asked if I was his mother. I said yes and she said he was outside her home, across the street and had been there since the night before! I couldn’t believe it! God is good.
All this makes me wonder if when we pray, God knows (obviously) what we need, and the “true” prayers are answered accordingly. So some of our prayers are not necessarily answered because they aren’t supposed to be? But, the Bible says ask and you shall receive. So this is confusing.
Laura, I just hearing that story and yes, God is good!
What a huge answer to prayer for the safety of your son. Only God.
What an answer to your prayer, Laura!
I love this story. I think of Jesus in the garden asking if the cup can be taken from him. Of course it cannot, he must go to the cross. Sometimes, we must also carry our cross, as hard as it is to bear. Laura, I have a book recommendation for your grands. A friend bought it for my adopted son, who struggles so with the loss of his mother/family. It’s called, ‘It will be okay”, by Lysa TerKeurst. It’s about trusting God through fear and change. It’s a great picture of how God uses hard things for our good. Praying for your situation.
Thanks for the encouraging words, Chris. That sounds like a great book! I will check into it.
Wednesday: Prayer
7. The book of Ruth is saturated in prayer. Even when Naomi is in high-tide grief, she is both petitioning and lamenting. Find the following prayers and share how they were answered.
A. Naomi prays for Ruth and Orpah (Ruth 1:8)
—Noami asked the Lord to deal kindly with her daughter-in-laws because they had dealt kindly with her family and with her. It is easy to see the hand of God’s blessing on Ruth. And that is the important part of God’s narrative in the book of Ruth as she was part of the linage of Jesus. But even though it is our tendency to write Orpha off as having gone back to her people and her gods I seriously doubt that God forgot Orpah. I somehow would think that even in her choice God dealt kindly with her as Naomi asked. That is the nature of God.
B. Boaz and his workers pray (Ruth 2:4)
—Boaz greeted the reapers with a blessing asking God to be with them and they returned the blessing. It appears the blessing of God was on the harvest for Boaz in more than a good crop. He met Ruth 😊
C. Boaz prays for Ruth (Ruth 2:11-12)
—Boaz asked God to bless and reward Ruth for her kindness and caring for Naomi and for leaving her native home to come live under the authority of the God of Israel and put her trust in Him. The result was how God graciously provided for her.
D. Naomi prays for Boaz (Ruth 2:19-20)
—Naomi asks God to bless Boaz for taking note of Ruth and his looking out for her. And for his taking care of them as widows.
God answered by blessing him with Ruth as a wife.
E. Boaz prays for Ruth (Ruth 3:10-13)
—Boaz asked God to bless Ruth for her purity of life by not selfishly seeking a husband among the young men regardless of their status. Boaz had seen Ruth’s worthy character lived out in the community. It had been observed by the men who I’m sure had doubted that a “Moabite” woman would be of such good character.
God rewarded her by providing the right kinsman redeemer in Boaz.
F. The elders and people of Bethlehem pray for Boaz and Ruth (Ruth 4:11-13)
—The people at the gate along with the Elders invoked God’s blessing on Boaz and Ruth asking that they have children that will “build up the house of Israel”. God answered in great measure because King David was their great grandson and eventually Jesus the King of Kings was born in their line of children.
8. Share a time when you were absolutely sure that God answered one of your prayers. What gave you confidence that He did?
—I wouldn’t know where to land in answer to that question. I’m sure I have experienced hundreds of answers to prayer over the years of my life. Some being large answers and many many small prayers answered. And it is not because I am some eloquent and powerful pray-er. I actually often feel my prayers are weak at best. But it is because I serve a magnanimous and amazing God who truly answers prayers and I have seem it time and time again. Things have happened that only God and God alone could do.
Bev, your answer to 8 is so true…” Things have happened that only God and God alone could do.”
A friend told me just yesterday that she thought my prayers were “stronger” than hers. I told her that God pays more attention to your heart than the words you use. Like you, Bev, our confidence is not in our prayer, but in the One we are praying to.
Wednesday: Prayer
7. The book of Ruth is saturated in prayer. Even when Naomi is in high-tide grief, she is both petitioning and lamenting. Find the following prayers and share how they were answered.
A. Naomi prays for Ruth and Orpah (Ruth 1:8)
We don’t know how it was answered in Orpah’s life but Ruth was rewarded in God providing for her a good husband in Boaz and a child.
B. Boaz and his workers pray (Ruth 2:4)
The harvesters were greeted with a blessing from Boaz and they returned the blessing.
C. Boaz prays for Ruth (Ruth 2:11-12)
Ruth was rewarded in leaving her family and land and came with her mother-in-law to a foreign land…God did take her under His wings.
D. Naomi prays for Boaz (Ruth 2:19-20)
Boaz was blessed with Ruth and a child.
E. Boaz prays for Ruth (Ruth 3:10-13)
Ruth was redeemed by Boaz.
F. The elders and people of Bethlehem pray for Boaz and Ruth (Ruth 4:11-13)
Ruth and Boaz did have a child, Obed of whom King David descended from. Boaz did prosper and was famous in Bethlehem.
8. Share a time when you were absolutely sure that God answered one of your prayers. What gave you confidence that He did?
When my Dad was diagnosed with bladder cancer and not given a good prognosis, I prayed that God would allow him to live long enough so my children would know their grandfather. A selfish prayer maybe but he lived 20 more years and when he died in 2008 my daughter was 24 and my son was 22. He had an impact on their lives in so many ways and I know both of them are better people for knowing him as well as all their grandparents who are all now with the Lord.
What a wonderful answer to prayer, Sharon.
Dear Sharon, Such a great answer to prayer that your dad had more years in order to know your children. Grandparents are a beautiful gift and they make a difference.
Not a selfish prayer. It was for the gift of his life to your children that you desired. A worthy and beautiful prayer and beautiful of God to answer.
Wow! I love this prayer and memory.
7. The book of Ruth is saturated in prayer. Even when Naomi is in high-tide grief, she is both petitioning and lamenting. Find the following prayers and share how they were answered.
A. Naomi prays for Ruth and Orpah (Ruth 1:8)
The Lord lead Ruth to Boaz. Orpah went back to Moab and that is the last heard of her.
B. Boaz and his workers pray (Ruth 2:4)
Ruth is allowed to stay in the safe field and glean and gather.
C. Boaz prays for Ruth (Ruth 2:11-12
Ruth was invited, by Boaz, to eat with the reapers at meal time.
D. Naomi prays for Boaz (Ruth 2:19-20)
Boaz treats Ruth with kindness and invites her to stay in a safe place near his young men during the harvest.
E. Boaz prays for Ruth (Ruth 3:10-13)
Boaz invites Ruth to stay close to him and protects her through the night.
F. The elders and people of Bethlehem pray for Boaz and Ruth (Ruth 4:11-13)
The younger relative cannot redeem Ruth for fear of ruining his own inheritance. Boaz takes Ruth for his wife and she bears many children. Jesus is in this lineage.
8. Share a time when you were absolutely sure that God answered one of your prayers. What gave you confidence that He did?
God has answered many of my prayers and most of the answers were so much more than I had asked in my prayer. I knew it was the Lord, because of the details in the answer that only He could do.
Thursday: Two Themes (Hesed and Greeting & Parting Scenes)
“HESED LOVE” Sally Lloyd Jones translates this Hebrew word as Never Stopping, Never Giving Up, Unbreaking, Always and Forever Love” in her Jesus Storybook Bible.
9. “Hesed” love is like the love of the Lord as described in Lamentations 3:22-23. What does it say?
—“The faithful love of the Lord never ends!
His mercies never cease.
Great is his faithfulness;
his mercies begin afresh each morning.”
10. Find it in Naomi’s prayer in Ruth 1:8 – it is translated kindness, mercy, or unfailing love.
—“may the Lord reward you for your kindness to your husbands and to me.” Ruth 1:8 NLT
11. Find it in Naomi’s prayer in Ruth 2:20 concerning the Lord. (This is the turning point for Naomi
—“May the Lord bless him!” …..“He is showing his kindness to us as well as to your dead husband…..
Ruth 2:20 NLT
12. Find it in Boaz’ praise of Ruth in Ruth 3:10. What has he seen that is different in Ruth from other women?
—“And he said, “May you be blessed by the Lord, my daughter. You have made this last kindness greater than the first in that you have not gone after young men, whether poor or rich.” Ruth 3:10 ESV
Boaz saw a faithful consistent love demonstrated by Ruth to Naomi and her commitment to carry out the practice of kinship redeemer by coming to him an older man and adhering to the proper protocol rather than selfishly seeking a younger husband no matter who he was. She was regaining honor for Naomi and her dead husband by what she did.
13. Share a time when you were acutely aware of God’s unfailing love to you.
—Ok, I haven’t shared this in quite a while but it was a significant time when I realized clearly God’s unconditional and unfailing love for me. Some of you have read this but some have come on the blog since. This is the testimony I wrote out about it a few years ago. I have never doubted God’s love for me since that time.
_________
I doubted God’s love.
I doubted God’s love for me personally.
I believed God loved me as a part of the world because “God so loved the world”. I had no doubts about God and Who He is. I love his Word and I am in awe of Who He is and what He has done and is doing. But I longed for a sense that I wasn’t just one of the many. I always felt I was down the line in favored status. Yes I knew God loved everyone equally and unconditionally but I didn’t feel it. But a number of months ago as I was pondering my relationship with God as my father and wondering about that time when I will see Him face to face. How it would feel to have him look at me personally one to one. He gently showed me I doubted his love for me and that my doubt was sin. Amid tears I confessed my sin to him. Then over the past months He has been leading me to specific resources that validate me in the love he has for me. First it was a conference by Dee Brestin on her book “Idol Lies”. Then a little 25 day devotional booklet given to me by a friend called “Loved Beyond Measure”. In our Sunday School class we have been studying “Knowing God” by J I Packer. He addresses the attribute of God as Love. And now I am part of this bible study from a book called “You Are Loved”. God is amazing isn’t He?!
The background of my doubt came out of personal insecurities starting in my childhood and carried into adulthood influenced by circumstances and relationships. But nothing in my life has the right to excuse my doubt of God’s love for me personally. It is based in His Word and His Word is Truth.
Bev, I love this. I’m sure I’ve been doubting his love for me in my trials. As you say, I know he loves me, but I don’t feel it, because what’s happening is so painful. Jesus time on the cross must have been the same. That is my only comfort. Praying I can have the peace you do about his love for me.
Chris, I pray that God will encourage you and show you his love for you in tangible ways and bring you into that place of peace about his unconditional and perfect love for you. I believe faith is not a feeling but our faith will affect our feelings about ourselves and about God. I trust he will bless your faith in him.
Of course I love this testimony, Bev. How blessed we are by you!
Wednesday: Prayer
7. The book of Ruth is saturated in prayer. Even when Naomi is in high-tide grief, she is both petitioning and lamenting. Find the following prayers and share how they were answered.
A. Naomi prays for Ruth and Orpah (Ruth 1:8)
We don’t know what happened to Orpah. Ruth became the wife of Boaz and the mother of Obed. She and Noami were taken out of poverty into a secure hoiusehold, all needs met.
B. Boaz and his workers pray (Ruth 2:4)
This was when we first see the upstanding character of Boaz, praying for his employees, lowly field workers. They obviously respected and liked Boaz. The Lord blessed with a bountiful harvest benefitting Boaz and the workers.
C. Boaz prays for Ruth (Ruth 2:11-12)
Ruth was rewarded with lots of grain for her and Naomi, and later she married Boaz,
D. Naomi prays for Boaz (Ruth, 2:19-20)
Boaz was blessed with the harvest, and later by having Ruth become his wife.
E. Boaz prays for Ruth (Ruth 3:10-13)
Ruth was blessed by marrying Boaz and having a son.
F. The elders and people of Bethlehem pray for Boaz and Ruth (Ruth 4:11-13)
They prayed that Boaz and Ruth would have children, prosper, and be famous. Their son Obed was the father of Jesse, so they were the great-grandparents of King David, The lineage of Jesus came through Ruth and Boaz. I wonder if they had other children?
8. Share a time when you were absolutely sure that God answered one of your prayers. What gave you confidence that He did?
I have a single friend who lives alone and is disabled, plus she has MULTIPLE health issues. She lives quite far away. We keep in touch by phone/messenger chatting often. After one phone call, when she was very upset and stressed, I prayed for her. I specifically asked the Lord to reassure her of His love and give her His peace. The next time she called, she was excited. “I don’t know why, but I’m not as anxious and I’m beginning to see that God does love me.” I was excited, too, and shared that I had prayed for that to happen.
I love this. So encouraging.
Wonderful, Cheryl.
8. Share a time when you were absolutely sure that God answered one of your prayers. What gave you confidence that He did?
I have two regarding safety for my son. The first one is a few years ago, when he and my husband each drove a tractor in our local parade. They drove them 2 miles from our home to town for the parade. My son was only 15 at the time and not especially good at being aware on the road. I know I was nervous to have him driving on the road and prayed for safety. He followed my husband and had to cross a busy intersection on the way back home. My husband went through the intersection ahead of him and my son said he crossed following my husband never seeing a car coming right at him, but at the last minute, he heard a voice say, “You’re not gonna make it!” The voice was plain as day and he later knew it had to be God because my husband did not say it and he couldn’t have heard him if he did as the tractors were too loud. So at the last minute he looked and saw the car and swerved to avoid the crash, as did the car which drove into the field off the road. No one was hurt. The second was Tuesday night when my son was out driving on the highway and hit black ice and nearly lost control. He told me of this yesterday morning-about how he almost died on the highway. His fiancée was crying afterwards it was such a close call, but he said he was calm and confident driving out of this as he nearly crashed into the car beside them. I told him I had been praying for safety for him as I knew the roads were very icy and my neighbor just lost her mother to a car wreck last week.
Wow, Chris!
Chris, thanks for sharing these wonderful answers to prayer…it’s testimonies like these that help us grow in our faith and encourage one another.
Thank you for sharing these answers to prayer, Chris. Praising God for these wonderful answers to prayer!!
GREETING SCENES AND PARTING SCENES
Throughout Scripture, you can see God zooming His camera in on the meeting and parting of friends, showing these are significant moments, for He does bring people together for a purpose, and how important things are said in parting when time is running out. We have several of these scenes in Ruth. Meditate on each and share what you see.
14. Parting Scene (Ruth 1:14-17)
—I see the deep emotional bond of 3 women weeping together as Orpah says goodbye knowing they will probably never see each other again in life. And then Ruth clinging and refusing to separate.
15. Greeting Scene (Ruth 2:4-7)
—Living in farm communities most of my life and having grandparents that were farmers as well as uncles and cousins and my sister’s family being farmer’s I have had lots of experiences associated with harvest time. It is a special time of preparation and anticipation of seeing the grain cut and brought in. When the yields are good it is also a time of celebration. I can see Boaz and his harvest workers anticipating and wishing each other the best. Looking to God for his blessing on the harvest. We often pray for safety for our family & friends during harvest time.
16. Greeting Scene (Ruth 2:1-16)
—Boaz proves to be an observant and conscientious man. He is generous and an encourager in his kindness to Ruth and she responds with gratitude and appreciation.
17. Greeting Scene (Ruth 4:1)
—Boaz went to the place at the town gate where he knew he would cross paths with the family redeemer who was first in line to redeem Naomi’s land. Boaz called him friend and invited him to join him to talk with him.
18. Share a greeting scene or parting scene in your life in which you sensed God was involved.
—Many years ago I asked God for a friend who really knew how to pray. I attended a new bible study for the first time and met a woman I had never met before. Lynda was fairly new to our town. As we were in a time of prayer I remember as I heard her pray thinking this woman prays with a depth of heart and that I wanted to know her better. Later in that week she called me and shared that she was part of a ministry to a troubled woman in her church. She would meet with one of the church elders who was counseling that woman and she wanted a prayer partner for that hard situation. The rest is history and now 35 years later Lynda and I are the closest of friends in Christ and still depend on each other for our many prayer needs.
Oh Bev, it is so special when you connect with someone through prayer and how wonderful you remained friends for all these years…God was definitely involved.
Amen!
What a special bond was formed as an answer to prayer!
Dear Bev, Thank you for sharing how prayer brought you together with Lynda and gave you such a enduring friendship. I love seeing God’s fingerprints all over our lives on this blog!
Thursday: Two Themes (Hesed and Greeting & Parting Scenes)
“HESED LOVE” Sally Lloyd Jones translates this Hebrew word as Never Stopping, Never Giving Up, Unbreaking, Always and Forever Love” in her Jesus Storybook Bible.
9. “Hesed” love is like the love of the Lord as described in Lamentations 3:22-23. What does it say?
“The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning.”
(NLT)
“God’s loyal love couldn’t have run out, his merciful love couldn’t have dried up. They’re created new every morning. How great your faithfulness! (The Message)
10. Find it in Naomi’s prayer in Ruth 1:8 – it is translated kindness, mercy, or unfailing love.
“But on the way, Naomi said to her two daughters-in-law, “Go back to your mothers’ homes. And may the Lord reward you for your kindness to your husbands and to me.”
11. Find it in Naomi’s prayer in Ruth 2:20 concerning the Lord. (This is the turning point for Naomi)
“May the Lord bless him (Boaz)! ” Naomi told her daughter-in-law. “He is showing his kindness to us as well as to your dead husband. That man is one of our closest relatives, one of our family redeemers.”
12. Find it in Boaz’ praise of Ruth in Ruth 3:10. What has he seen that is different in Ruth from other women?
“The Lord bless you, my daughter!” Boaz exclaimed. “You are showing even more family loyalty now than you did before, for you have not gone after a younger man, whether rich or poor.”
13. Share a time when you were acutely aware of God’s unfailing love to you.
I don’t have a specific time but I do know and feel His unfailing love for me each and every day.
GREETING SCENES AND PARTING SCENES
Throughout Scripture, you can see God zooming His camera in on the meeting and parting of friends, showing these are significant moments, for He does bring people together for a purpose, and how important things are said in parting when time is running out. We have several of these scenes in Ruth. Meditate on each and share what you see.
14. Parting Scene (Ruth 1:14-17)
I see much sorrow in the three women weeping together, a kiss good-bye from Orpah to Naomi and Ruth clinging to Naomi, refusing to leave her. Ruth preferred to stay with Naomi and become part of her people and be with her God.
15. Greeting Scene (Ruth 2:4-7)
Boaz and the harvesters greet one another with blessing.
16. Greeting Scene (Ruth 2:1-16)
The dialogue between Boaz and Ruth reveal what kind of people they are…Boaz is protective and aware of others physicals needs such as thirst and inviting her to eat with him, he also knows everything about what’s happened in Ruth’s life, what she’s done for her mother-in-law and extends a very sincere welcome to Ruth. Ruth is very appreciative and relieved, extending a warm thank you to Boaz allowing her to glean his field being a foreigner. She also hopes to continue to please Boaz and is comforted by his kind words.
17. Greeting Scene (Ruth 4:1)
Boaz greets the family redeemer as friend and invites him to sit and talk with him.
18. Share a greeting scene or parting scene in your life in which you sensed God was involved.
I will never forget my Dad’s greeting when he arrived at our house the morning we’d lost our son. He hugged me so tight and said, I know it may be hard for you to pray right now but please know that I’m praying for you and love you so much.
A wise father. I’m sure his heart was breaking for you.
Wednesday: Prayer
7. The book of Ruth is saturated in prayer. Even when Naomi is in high-tide grief, she is both petitioning and lamenting. Find the following prayers and share how they were answered.
A. Naomi prays for Ruth and Orpah (Ruth 1:8) – Naomi asked that the Lord deal kindly with her daughters in law because of all they had dealt with. For Ruth, the Lord granted her favor and Boaz saw her. For Orpah, I’m not sure how the Lord answered, since she went back to her gods, who was not God.
B. Boaz and his workers pray (Ruth 2:4) – Boaz prayed that the Lord would be with his reapers. It seemed that the Lord blessed them with abundance since there was plenty of sheaves to glean and gather for all of them.
C. Boaz prays for Ruth (Ruth 2:11-12) – Boaz’ prayer for Ruth was for the Lord to see all she had done for Naomi and how she left her people and all that she knew to come to a foreign place. The Lord rewarded Ruth with abundance and a new life under His ways.
D. Naomi prays for Boaz (Ruth 2:19-20) – Naomi is asking the Lord to bless Boaz for seeing and doing what was right in the Lord’s eyes. And for finding favor with Ruth.
E. Boaz prays for Ruth (Ruth 3:10-13) – Boaz prayed that the Lord would bless Ruth for doing what the Lord had planned and not going and doing her own thing by finding and marrying a young man. Ruth was lifted up as an honorable woman because of all she had done.
F. The elders and people of Bethlehem pray for Boaz and Ruth (Ruth 4:11-13) – They prayed that Ruth would be like Rachel and Leah who built up the house of Israel and that Boaz’ offspring would be blessed like the house of Perez. The Lord blessed them both and they had a son, Obed who fathered Jesse, who fathered David.
8. Share a time when you were absolutely sure that God answered one of your prayers. What gave you confidence that He did? – I was struggling financially and praying on how to make things work, when my nephew (who was very financially set and frugal) called me and said he was going to send me $100 which is what I needed to help me out. But when the check came, it was $1,000. I had no doubt the Lord worked in his heart with that amount of money.
Great story in 8, Julie.
Thursday: Two Themes (Hesed and Greeting & Parting Scenes)
“HESED LOVE” Sally Lloyd Jones translates this Hebrew word as Never Stopping, Never Giving Up, Unbreaking, Always and Forever Love” in her Jesus Storybook Bible.
9. “Hesed” love is like the love of the Lord as described in Lamentations 3:22-23. What does it say? – “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” This is so refreshing to me. To know that the Lord’s love will never leave me and that, though I know I will mess up, each new day is another day to glorify him and seek him again.
10. Find it in Naomi’s prayer in Ruth 1:8 – it is translated kindness, mercy, or unfailing love. – My ESV version shows; may the Lord deal kindly with you…
11. Find it in Naomi’s prayer in Ruth 2:20 concerning the Lord. (This is the turning point for Naomi) – “May he be blessed by the Lord, whose kindness has not forsaken the living or the dead.”
12. Find it in Boaz’ praise of Ruth in Ruth 3:10. What has he seen that is different in Ruth from other women? – “May you be blessed by the Lord” Boaz saw that Ruth did not run after young men. For Ruth to do this, I would think the Lord would have to squash those feelings for young men from her heart in order for her to follow God’s plan since she was young (teens to young 20’s) from what I found.
13. Share a time when you were acutely aware of God’s unfailing love to you. – Wow, this is a hard one. I just know that he loves me and when I feel his presence come over me. It happens more when I’m praying bold prayers for someone or something, and a song might come on the radio or a song we sing in church, and I feel His warmth come over me letting me know it’s going to be ok. That’s when I know God has heard my cries and is saying, don’t worry, I love you and I’ve got it.
“…don’t worry, I love you and I’ve got it.” What a blessing to know He is in control!
Thursday: Two Themes (Hesed and Greeting & Parting Scenes)
GREETING SCENES AND PARTING SCENES
Throughout Scripture, you can see God zooming His camera in on the meeting and parting of friends, showing these are significant moments, for He does bring people together for a purpose, and how important things are said in parting when time is running out. We have several of these scenes in Ruth. Meditate on each and share what you see.
14. Parting Scene (Ruth 1:14-17) – A determination from Naomi to get her daughters in law to not follow her. Maybe she just wanted to grieve and be by herself and not have to worry about anyone else. Sadness when Orpah sad goodbye and turned to go back to her family and gods. And Ruth was determined to stay with Naomi no matter what she said. I wonder if Ruth felt the tug of God leading her to stay and in the end be blessed with God’s plan for her life.
15. Greeting Scene (Ruth 2:4-7) – Boaz is seeking out information on who Ruth is and what has been happening. His reapers give him what he wants to know. He’s interested in Ruth from the beginning, just seeing her. Does he feel the presence of God upon her?
16. Greeting Scene (Ruth 2:1-16) – Appreciation, love, caring, protection. These are what I see between Ruth and Boaz. Ruth is not looking for an easy handout, she wants to do what she can. Boaz find favor with her and protects her before she is even his to marry.
17. Greeting Scene (Ruth 4:1) – A cordial greeting to discuss what the redeemer wants to do. No threatening is done by Boaz. It seems to be a friendly encounter.
18. Share a greeting scene or parting scene in your life in which you sensed God was involved. – I will have to think on this one. Asking the Lord to reveal to me what He wants me to share.
9. “Hesed” love is like the love of the Lord as described in Lamentations 3:22-23. What does it say?
Love that is faithful and merciful.
10. Find it in Naomi’s prayer in Ruth 1:8 – it is translated kindness, mercy, or unfailing love.
She prays for her daughters in law to have the Lord’s kindness.
11. Find it in Naomi’s prayer in Ruth 2:20 concerning the Lord. (This is the turning point for Naomi.
She asks the Lord to bless Boaz for his kindness.
12. Find it in Boaz’ praise of Ruth in Ruth 3:10. What has he seen that is different in Ruth from other women?
She showed loyalty to the family
Friday: REPENTANCE AND REDEMPTION
19. All this points to Christ. How is He our Kinsman?
—When we come to Him for salvation and give our lives to him we become children of God and joint heirs with Christ. He is like our older brother.
“For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.”
Romans 8:14-17 ESV
How is He our Redeemer?
—A Redeemer buys back and rescues someone who has nothing. He pays whatever price is needed to restore that one who has lost what was of value in their life but has no way to regain it. He sets the person free so to speak.
Jesus found me when I was lost. He paid the price of my sin debt by giving his own life to redeem me. He set me free.
How did He cover us with His garment?.
—He covers us with his righteousness.
The apostle Paul says
“Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith—”
Philippians 3:8-9 ESV
20. How else do you see Jesus in the romance of this book?
21. Can you remember a time when you knew that you belonged to Christ as His own? (For some, they can remember a moment. For others, they may not remember the moment, but they do remember when they were assured they were His.)
—As a young child I asked Jesus to come onto my heart. I knew I was a sinner and I believed in Jesus. Did I understand what that meant? No. I was too young to begin to realize what it all meant. Unfortunately I grew up in a church that was more works oriented. That actually that was generally true of most Christian churches at that time. Trying to be “good” was what mattered. So I failed at that pretty quickly. As a result I didn’t come to understand grace and was not taught well the assurance of Salvation and that you could know you were saved for eternity. The enemy used doubt very effectively in my life. The turn around from me came when I was a teen and an older married cousin of mine and her husband got glorious saved out of very wayward living. She was exuberant about her salvation and one day she was sharing verses she had learned and as I listened and saw those verses it became clear in my heart and mind that I was saved and knew I truly belonged to Jesus. I remember thinking clearly in my mind “I am saved. I believe in Jesus and really am saved!” I have never questioned it since. It was settled in my heart and mind.
“I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life.”
1 John 5:13 ESV
I don’t remember that story about your cousin. Wonderful!
Your conversion story gives me such good chills, Bev! Thank you for sharing!
9. “Hesed” love is like the love of the Lord as described in Lamentations 3:22-23. What does it say?
It is only by God’s hesed that we are not destroyed/consumed. His mercy and love is new each day, never stopping.
10. Find it in Naomi’s prayer in Ruth 1:8 – it is translated kindness, mercy, or unfailing love.
She prays the Lord would show hesed to Orpah and Ruth.
11. Find it in Naomi’s prayer in Ruth 2:20 concerning the Lord. (This is the turning point for Naomi
Naomi finally recognizes the hesed of the Lord in directing Ruth to Boaz’s fields, a near kinsman. Before that she was discouraged and bitter against the Lord.
12. Find it in Boaz’ praise of Ruth in Ruth 3:10. What has he seen that is different in Ruth from other women? He says that Ruth has shown hesed in preferring Boaz to younger men.
13. Share a time when you were acutely aware of God’s unfailing love to you.
When my daughter was killed in that accident, I couldn’t pray or even reach out to the Lord. I was overwhelmed, BUT He never stopped loving me and gently speaking to me through His Spirit. I’ve described it as sitting under a bell jar with the Lord loving, protecting, and upholding me, when I could do nothing for myself.
GREETING SCENES AND PARTING SCENES
Throughout Scripture, you can see God zooming His camera in on the meeting and parting of friends, showing these are significant moments, for He does bring people together for a purpose, and how important things are said in parting when time is running out. We have several of these scenes in Ruth. Meditate on each and share what you see.
14. Parting Scene (Ruth 1:14-17)
I see the heartbreak of these three women, all widows, who have been through so much together. At this parting there are tears, kisses, and Ruth is clutching Naomi at the thought of leaving her,
15. Greeting Scene (Ruth 2:4-7)
I see mutual respect, and maybe some affection, between Boaz and the field workers. He prays the Lord’s blessing on them, and they do so in return. Then Boaz asks about the woman he does not recognize.
16. Greeting Scene (Ruth 2:1-16 After being told about Ruth, Boaz speaks kindly to her. He tells her to stay in his field near his workers where she will be safe, to drink from the water jugs they have filled. Ruth is overcome by his kindness and falls before him asking Boaz, why take notice of me?, such a humble spirit. Boaz recounts all he has heard of Ruth’s reputation and kindness to Naomi. He then prays the Lord’s blessing on her, since she has trusted herself to Him.
Oh, I can just see the relief and hear Ruth sigh, as she responds to Boaz. How comforting to hear his kind words, as she is acutely aware that she is a foreigner. How lonely Ruth must have been. Boaz goes even further now inviting her to eat with him and the workers, making sure she has food and drink.
17. Greeting Scene (Ruth 4:1) Boaz is at the gate of the city, where the elders gather, watching for the other kinsman. When the man appears Boaz calls out to him asking him to sit down.
18. Share a greeting scene or parting scene in your life in which you sensed God was involved.
It was February 1979, snowing outside, and I was at the hospital where my two month old baby was being prepped for emergency surgery. A friend was taking care of my two year old child, and I was alone. My husband was on his way, but was miles away. I was thinking, Who could I call, HOW could I call, when out of the elevator stepped two older women from my church. They knew nothing about my situation and had been at the hospital for another purpose. They immediately took me under their wing.
Oh, Cheryl Ann, so sweet that the Lord sent those two women to you at that moment. God is so good.
This phrase captures it “mutual heartbreak”
“HESED LOVE” Sally Lloyd Jones translates this Hebrew word as Never Stopping, Never Giving Up, Unbreaking, Always and Forever Love” in her Jesus Storybook Bible.
9. “Hesed” love is like the love of the Lord as described in Lamentations 3:22-23. What does it say?
The Lord’s mercies and compassion do not fail; He is always faithful.
10. Find it in Naomi’s prayer in Ruth 1:8 – it is translated kindness, mercy, or unfailing love.
Naomi heart is for God’s mercy and good for her daughters, as they have shown mercy, loyalty and love to her.
11. Find it in Naomi’s prayer in Ruth 2:20 concerning the Lord. (This is the turning point for Naomi
Naomi prays a prayer of Blessing on Boaz, who has not forsaken her dead husband’s family, but he is faithful in showing them mercy and love.
12. Find it in Boaz’ praise of Ruth in Ruth 3:10. What has he seen that is different in Ruth from other women?
Boaz praises Ruth because she is filled with kindness and sincerity for him, though he is not young or rich. Ruth is not self serving
13. Share a time when you were acutely aware of God’s unfailing love to you.
I have been so aware of God’s unfailing love since I lost my husband and my life has changed dramatically. He is here every moment and I know it is Him, because every day His mercies have been so present. Every time I worry about tomorrow, He quickly reminds me that He is here, One day at a time. I am not afraid when I am alone; I have felt covered with His wings. I cannot explain it, but I feel it deep in my soul. Though I have times when I panic or cry or feel lonely; He quickly sends me a reminder that I am not alone. He has a plan.
GREETING SCENES AND PARTING SCENES
Throughout Scripture, you can see God zooming His camera in on the meeting and parting of friends, showing these are significant moments, for He does bring people together for a purpose, and how important things are said in parting when time is running out. We have several of these scenes in Ruth. Meditate on each and share what you see.
14. Parting Scene (Ruth 1:14-17)
They all wept together; Orpah kissed her Naomi, but Ruth’s heart clung to Naomi. Ruth knew in her heart that wanted to care for Naomi and be with her and to know her God. She wanted nothing but death to part them.
15. Greeting Scene (Ruth 2:4-7)
Boaz blessed the reapers in the field and they blessed Boaz in return. He ask who Ruth was and this gave her the opportunity to ask if she might glean and gather after the reapers. The law was that the reapers were to leave some grain for those in need, orphans and widows.
16. Greeting Scene (Ruth 2:1-16)
Though Boaz new that Ruth was a Moabite, He said a prayer acknowledging Ruth’s love and loyalty to Naomi. He blessed her with a blessing to be given by the God of Israel, under whose wing she sought refuge. I think this showed Ruth’s heart for God.
17. Greeting Scene (Ruth 4:1)
Boaz met the close relative at the gate and he spoke to him of Ruth’s plight and would he be interested in buying the land of their relative, with marriage to Ruth, as part of the package. The relative declined by giving his sandal to Boaz. This left Ruth available for Boaz.
18. Share a greeting scene or parting scene in your life in which you sensed God was involved.
When I met my husband, I felt that God put me there at that time and that he put my husband there at that time. I am not sure how strongly I felt that at the moment, but I could see His hand in our relationship. Years later, we would still talk about the way God worked all of that together. ( Not that it wasn’t a bit of a roller coaster. )
Patti, thank you for sharing your journey since your dear husband died. I often wonder what it will be like if my own husband dies before I do and I tend to worry. Hearing how the Lord has been faithful to you has given me added peace about the future.
Cheryl Ann, I am thankful if I helped you. It was and is a total miracle from God, daily. I never thought I could survive this and prayed that it would never happen. Yet, the Lord gently led me through a very difficult year of watching my husband slowly deteriorate. It was so difficult, but there were new mercies each day. When it was God’s time, I knew it was His will and not mine. My husband and I were joined at the hip, together every day. The later years were even sweeter than the early years. I finally was able to let go, because it was so hard to see him so unhappy and so diminished. I held his hand for hours and I was finally willing to see God’s perspective. (Yes, I am sobbing all over my keyboard) I realize it would have been terrible for him, if I had gone first. He was insulin resistant, which caused dementia. He was terrified, even with my daughter there, if I went to the store. God took him gently and peacefully while I held his hand. I have listened to Kathy Keller talk about losing Tim; she has such good wisdom. I try to get through my meltdowns and then I am better. I had read and continue to read Dee’s book: The God of All Comfort. That has helped me so much. You can never be prepared, but God will be with you and comfort you. He will give you His peace. It is beyond our comprehension. (hope I am not writing too much)
Dear Patti, Definitely not too much! I have saved what you wrote in a file folder on my laptop. You have such a loving heart and truly are a reflection of hesed. ~ cheryl
Love your answer to 18. I still remember our first Bible study and you saying “My life is a soap opera.” And it was!
Oh, it was! I can look back, Dee, and see a long path of answered prayers. He took a path of twisted turns and brought us to our knees in front of Jesus!! What an amazing God we serve!! How I Praise His Name!
Friday
What follows true repentance is redemption. Another significant term in Ruth is “Kinsman-Redeemer.” Boaz is a Christ figure pointing to the final Kinsman Redeemer, Jesus Christ. Boaz was Naomi’s kinsman, related to her, so had an obligation to take care of her in her distress. He was her redeemer in that he bought back the land she had lost and married her so that the family name would not be lost.
19. All this points to Christ. How is He our Kinsman? How is He our Redeemer? How did He cover us with His garment?. I am not sure how Jesus would be our kinsman before he redeemed us. Through his blood I have received forgiveness of sin and been redeemed, brought back, into a relationship with God. We are kinsmen now because God has adopted me; Jesus is Lord and Savior, and also my brother. Eph. 1:5-7
20. How else do you see Jesus in the romance of this book? Boaz initiated the conversation with Ruth, and through his kindness/actions drew her. Ultimately, he married her and redeemed that which was lost.
In like manner, but infinitely more wonderful, Jesus wooed us to Himself. He took the first steps towards us when he put aside his glory and came to earth as a tiny babe. We could not reach up to him, as Ruth would never have approached Boaz; he came to us. Ultimately Jesus paid the price with his own blood to buy us back. One day he will appear to claim his purchased possession! Eph. 1:14
21. Can you remember a time when you knew that you belonged to Christ as His own? (For some, they can remember a moment. For others, they may not remember the moment, but they do remember when they were assured they were His.)
I loved the Lord and knew He loved me, but I don’t think I thought of it as belonging to Him. It was when I first grasped the fact that “Christ lives in me,” and learned about abiding in Christ, that I knew we were truly One.
11:23 PM Friday night, close enough to Saturday for my takeaway comment, lol
Seeing the themes of Ruth, instead of just scenes was something new for me. The fact that Ruth is filled with prayer is something I had never considered before. I’ve never thought of the words, “Lord bless you,” as prayer, but they are. The importance of my way or God’s way, and the contrasting examples shown in Ruth. Looking closely at the dialogue to understand the people in the book better. Meditating on the greeting/parting scenes throughout the book brought my own experiences into sharper focus. Lastly the most important thing of hesed, God’s overarching love and mercy for Naomi and Ruth.
Yes indeed, “The Lord bless you” is a prayer!
Wednesday: Prayer
1. The book of Ruth is saturated in prayer. Even when Naomi is in high-tide grief, she is both petitioning and lamenting. Find the following prayers and share how they were answered.
Dee, I am glad you brought this up that the book of Ruth is saturated in prayers. I have not seen/considered that before.
A. Naomi prays for Ruth and Orpah (Ruth 1:8)
“May the Lord show kindness to you as you have shown to your dead and to me. May the lord grant that each of you will find rest in the home of another husband.”
B. Boaz and his workers pray (Ruth 2:4)
The Lord be with you!
C. Boaz prays for Ruth (Ruth 2:11-12)
May the Lord repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the Lord, the God of Israel under whose wings you have come to take refuge.
D. Naomi prays for Boaz (Ruth 2:19-20)
Blessed be the man who took notice of you!
E. Boaz prays for Ruth (Ruth 3:10-13)
The Lord bless you, my daughter. He acknowledged her kindness by not running after younger men and telling her not to be afraid.
F. The elders and people of Bethlehem pray for Boaz and Ruth (Ruth 4:11-13)
May the Lord make the woman who is coming into your home like Rachel and Leah, who together built up the house of Israel. May you have standing in Ephrathah and be famous in Bethlehem. Through the offspring, the Lord gives you by this young woman, may your family be like that of Perez, whom Tamar bore to Judah.
8. Share a time when you were absolutely sure that God answered one of your prayers. What gave you confidence that He did?
I have shared here before that I have been feeling overwhelmed with my responsibilities at my job and church. Proverbs 3:5-6 has been one of the verses I have been praying for. This week, I saw some significant things fall into place at such a consistent pace and wrapped up by a friend who said yes to helping. Some things may not be where I want them to be yet God has given me peace while waiting. I am confident that He is answering prayers because their timing and clarity point to Him alone to have worked them out.
Love the liver and onions story!
Thursday: Two Themes (Hesed and Greeting & Parting Scenes)
“HESED LOVE” Sally Lloyd Jones translates this Hebrew word as Never Stopping, Never Giving Up, Unbreaking, Always and Forever Love” in her Jesus Storybook Bible.
9. “Hesed” love is like the love of the Lord as described in Lamentations 3:22-23. What does it say?
“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning, great is your faithfulness.
10. Find it in Naomi’s prayer in Ruth 1:8 – it is translated kindness, mercy, or unfailing love.
Naomi trusted God’s kindness to be shown to Ruth through His provision of a home and a husband. During that time, a husband is crucial to survival.
11. Find it in Naomi’s prayer in Ruth 2:20 concerning the Lord. (This is the turning point for Naomi.
This was a light bulb moment for Seeing that it is God who is showing kindness to Ruth.
12. Find it in Boaz’ praise of Ruth in Ruth 3:10. What has he seen that is different in Ruth from other women?
Instead of running after younger men her age, she has sought out Boaz, a man much older than her. God used a most unlikely woman to bless Boaz with a wife.
13. Share a time when you were acutely aware of God’s unfailing love to you.
I love to talk here about how God provided a business class seat (I thought and bought my ticket was for a coach) for me when I was flying to the Philippines to see my mom when we thought she was dying. It was a quick answer to my prayer for the Lord to show me a token of His mercies to me as I was very sick during the trip.
Another time was when I was so forlorn about my life. I was driving to work and asked God to show me a sign of His goodness. For some reason, “liver and onions” came to mind. I dismissed it at first thinking that was so silly to be asking God to provide a lunch of liver and onions for me. But my soul was lifted by the humor of it. When I arrived at work and clocked in, I saw a sign-up for lunch for employees. And what do you know? Liver and onions were one of the choices! Now, what can I say to that? I stood there and cried. After that, I couldn’t think of another time when it was served again. The dietary supervisor told me the company took it off the menu rotation.
GREETING SCENES AND PARTING SCENES
Throughout Scripture, you can see God zooming His camera in on the meeting and parting of friends, showing these are significant moments, for He does bring people together for a purpose, and how important things are said in parting when time is running out. We have several of these scenes in Ruth. Meditate on each and share what you see.
14. Parting Scene (Ruth 1:14-17)
When separation seems to be final, we share our deepest thoughts with the person we are parting with. Ruth had to decide on her own. This showed a commitment on her part not to leave Naomi on her own. This showed humility, selflessness, and love.
These verses were read at our wedding, and my sister-in-law (my husband’s twin) sang them for us.
15. Greeting Scene (Ruth 2:4-7)
Our greetings to others can set the stage for a welcome, engagement, and further interactions rather than perfunctory.
16. Greeting Scene (Ruth 2:1-16)
Ruth’s character was further noticed by Boaz through the kind words of the other workers. We can be used by God when we affirm a person to another. God was “in a roll” here if I could say so!
17. Greeting Scene (Ruth 4:1)
When we sit with one another, as opposed to standing, we are showing a willingness to engage with one another.
18. Share a greeting scene or parting scene in your life in which you sensed God was involved.
I was leaving our local pharmacy when I heard the pharmacist call out my name. we stood by the door, and he apologized to me for not responding to my email thanking him for visiting our church on Christmas Eve. In the course of our conversation, and after he waited on another customer and we sat down together, I found out that he was interested in attending our church! This was so unexpected with the little that I know of him. I reflected on that 2 sentence thank you that I sent him and knew that God was involved. Richard usually picks up my medicine but that day, I did!
Friday: REPENTANCE AND REDEMPTION
Paige pointed out the theme of “returning” or “repentance” and the significance of Naomi returning to Bethlehem. Ruth also demonstrates repentance in leaving her gods, and clinging to the One True God.
What follows true repentance is redemption. Another significant term in Ruth is “Kinsman-Redeemer.” Boaz is a Christ figure pointing to the final Kinsman Redeemer, Jesus Christ. Boaz was Naomi’s kinsman, related to her, so had an obligation to take care of her in her distress. He was her redeemer in that he bought back the land she had lost and married her so that the family name would not be lost.
19. All this points to Christ. How is He our Kinsman? How is He our Redeemer? How did He cover us with His garment?
Jesus Christ is the Son of God. When we become part of God’s family, Jesus becomes our elder brother, our kinsman. The only person who can redeem us from the world to be restored to God’s family. He redeemed us by paying through His blood for our inclusion in His family just as Boaz agreed to buy the land that belonged to Elimelech, Naomi’s husband. Jesus’ garment of righteousness covered us.
This song comes to mind again: Cover Me, Lord. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3vyWg9IOcM
20. How else do you see Jesus in the romance of this book?
The genealogy of David in Ruth 4. Without the romance of Boaz and Ruth, Jesus would not have come from David’s royal line.
Rabbit trailing here: In the early years of my engagement and marriage to Richard (almost 40 years now), we dealt with criticisms about our cross-cultural marriage. It seemed like at that time; it was frowned upon even among Christians. But one of the things that gave us peace was the fact that we both were a “Bride” of Jesus and His love for us transcended our differences. Though our love for one another has been tested many times throughout our marriage, we look back and know that God has brought us together. The Book of Ruth is always special to both of us. and our only daughter/child is named, Ruth.
21. Can you remember a time when you knew that you belonged to Christ as His own? (For some, they can remember a moment. For others, they may not remember the moment, but they do remember when they were assured they were His.)
There have been many times when I doubted my belongingness to Christ in the course of my life. But He always brings me back to His Word and His faithfulness.
John 3:16-17; Romans 8; the Book of Revelation; I John and many others
Saturday:
22. What is your take-a-way and why?
Jesus is in the Book of Ruth. He is in all of history and He is the same yesterday today and forever.
GREETING SCENES AND PARTING SCENES
Throughout Scripture, you can see God zooming His camera in on the meeting and parting of friends, showing these are significant moments, for He does bring people together for a purpose, and how important things are said in parting when time is running out. We have several of these scenes in Ruth. Meditate on each and share what you see.
14. Parting Scene (Ruth 1:14-17)
They weep together. They hug. Ruth is totally bonded with Naomi and asks God to punish her if anything but death separates them.
15. Greeting Scene (Ruth 2:4-7)
Boaz greets the workers and says, “The Lord be with you” in his greeting. The workers respond, “The Lord bless you.”
16. Greeting Scene (Ruth 2:1-16)
17. Greeting Scene (Ruth 4:1)
Boaz greets Ruth in the field. He tells her she may have water and nothing she can glean for food. She is surprised and asks why. He acknowledges that she has been good to Naomi and asks God to bless her for that.
18. Share a greeting scene or parting scene in your life in which you sensed God was involved.
I suppose the only one that stands out is my father’s death. I know I always come back to it, and there are probably others that are just smaller events. I was standing at his bedside in ICU. I was 12. God spoke to me and said “I’ll always be your father.” My dad died the next day. I told my dad I would be the best I could be and that I would be OK. I don’t know if he heard me. He was a musician, and I still have a beautiful silver Artley flute that he bought me. I told him I would be the best flute player in the middle school. I battled first and second chair with my good friend Kristi at the time.
Love your parting scene story with your dad.
Friday: REPENTANCE AND REDEMPTION
Paige pointed out the theme of “returning” or “repentance” and the significance of Naomi returning to Bethlehem. Ruth also demonstrates repentance in leaving her gods, and clinging to the One True God.
What follows true repentance is redemption. Another significant term in Ruth is “Kinsman-Redeemer.” Boaz is a Christ figure pointing to the final Kinsman Redeemer, Jesus Christ. Boaz was Naomi’s kinsman, related to her, so had an obligation to take care of her in her distress. He was her redeemer in that he bought back the land she had lost and married her so that the family name would not be lost.
19. All this points to Christ.
How is He our Kinsman?
When God chose me according to His will I became His child. In Hebrews 2:17 it says that, “it was necessary for Jesus to be made in every respect like us, His brothers and sisters,so that He could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God.”
How is He our Redeemer?
Jesus bought us with His blood. He became the sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people.
How did He cover us with His garment?
When Jesus died for us He took away the penalty of sin and we became righteous in His eyes. He gave us protection/covered us with His righteousness and gave us eternal life…we’re no longer under the penalty of sin. Roman 6:23, “For the wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ.” When we become His we enter into a covenant…that’s our covering. Ezekiel 16:8, God speaking to Israel, “And when I passed by again, I saw that you were old enough to love. So I wrapped My cloak around you to cover your nakedness and declared My marriage vows. I made a covenant with you, says the Sovereign LORD, and you became mine.”
20. How else do you see Jesus in the romance of this book?
21. Can you remember a time when you knew that you belonged to Christ as His own? (For some, they can remember a moment. For others, they may not remember the moment, but they do remember when they were assured they were His.)
I think I’ve told this story but when I was 6 I asked my Dad how I could be sure I was going to heaven and be with Jesus. He sat me on his lap and explained the gospel to me for my age level and asked if I wanted to pray to receive Jesus and I did. My Mom bought me a Bible and wrote the date I said that prayer (I don’t have that Bible anymore, but whenever I doubted I was always assured by that). There were many ups and downs in my Christian journey since then, but I always knew that I belonged to Christ. I am so thankful for the foundation of the truth that my parents instilled within me.