For Ruth and Naomi, they needed sovereignty and in essence a fresh start. Everyone makes mistakes and no one should judge the other for their past actions as a man or woman. Application: God had a wonderful plan for Ruth. Naomi hatches a "plan" to join Ruth and Boaz for "good" ( Ruth 2:22 ). In fact, we know more about the relationship between these two women than we know about them individually. Memory Work - Luke 1:68; Scripture Reading and Discussion - Leviticus 25:48-49a, Ruth 4:1-17. Install Feel The Words, and access it like a regular app. The LORD bless you, my daughter, he replied. The story of Ruth and Naomi is one of the best-loved stories in the Bible. Thank you xo much for all the lessons you have scooped out for us from the story of Ruth. He was not in Gods will. Love works in mysterious ways. His father was Salmon, an Israelite prince. I hear people say, Gods got Made with by India A place where world feel the words. Yet she showed incredible character. Even if you have to pay for it, itll be worth it. The book of Ruth begins by looking at the life of Naomi. Be Blessed. Ruth and Orpah made two different decisions. When life brings devastation, its not easy to hope. But there is a lesson in the book of Ruth. The past is the past. It is true that dating can be quite a drama-filled journey. As you read through the book of Ruth, you wont find any places where Gods voice thunders down to her as you might in other Bible stories. The book of Ruth is packed with so many lessons about, life, love and faithfulness. They will not be disgraced in hard times; even in famine they will have more than enough. Boaz was a prophetic symbol and his redemptive work lives on even today. In those days when men died before they had children, a male relative was responsible for taking his widow as wife and giving her children who would be considered the child of the deceased. They had hope for their future. The book of Ruth shines like a beautiful diamond against this bleak background. The point is, we cant say for sure but it is likely that he had a wife. Disclosure: This site contains affiliate links which wont change your price. In the Book of Ruth, both Naomi and Ruth are continuously blown away by others who thank and recognize them for what they did rather than what they may have done incorrectly. Everyone can find something relatable in Ruths love story. Blessing. so powerful and inspirational, may Almighty God bless those that put their head together to establish this work. Ruth is a traditionally feminine name with Hebrew roots and origins in the Bible which means "companion" or "friend." Ruth was "of the women of Moab" but was related to Israel . Her commitment to journey on with Naomi was a beautiful, selfless act, and a stunning example of the love of Christ the same Christ who would be of her bloodline years later. Remember to thank and recognize your partner each day. Read Ruth 1. She didnt just pray. every one on earth will fail. Through Naomi and Ruths mother and daughter-in-law relationship, were able to see the heavenly presence that takes place because of love. It is unlikely that it was written before the time of David (cp. Ruth could have had her fill and left it there. Looking at the bigger picture of the Book of Ruth its evident now to see how the famine, Naomis relocation to Moab, the return to Bethlehem, Boazs blood line, and several other events had a hand in the overall plan for Ruths life. The Book of Ruth provides many relationship lessons that perpetuate the meaning of true love. On the day that Ruth decided to go gleaning, on that very day, Boaz chose to visit his field. The Book of Ruth enables readers to view, in a small-scale way, the foundational biblical story of the exodus. Among them is how it illustrates the relationship between Jesus (Yahshua) with His Church. Your past is not your final destination when you make a choice in faith. Boaz recognized that Ruth was quite vulnerable. He made a decision that God didnt approve. Ruth made the best decision because she decided to hold the family together at all costs. Anyone is at liberty to use this lesson for educational purposes only, with or without credit. Ruth lived in the time of the judges. When you least expect it God provides His children with the things they need in life. In the book of Job, Job declares, I know that my Redeemer [goel] lives. While Boaz was a kinsman redeemer, when Jesus comes to earth as a man, he becomes our kinsman redeemer in the flesh, and Hebrews 2:11 it says that he is not ashamed to call them brethren.. This is the edited manuscript of Lesson 1 in the series, Ruth: A Story of Redemption, prepared by Robert L. Deffinbaugh on January 10, 2010. In a place where many would have thought shed be ostracized, she found love with a man named Boaz. Early in the story we met Ruth and Orpah. Issues that require mental and emotional effort should probably happen when people are not tired and hungry. Their choices do not mean that one is better than the other. If she had to go it alone, it would be 10 times harder. Her actions told Boaz that she was there to claim her right to be redeemed by him. While you may be going through pain in your current heartbreak, its important to realize that this is all for a reason. Love works in mysterious ways. But that was only until Boaz told him he would also have to marry Ruth as well. Ruth's story is celebrated during the Jewish festival of Shavuot, the Feast of Weeks, 50 days after Passover. He asked them to allow some to fall purposely for her. They struggled with poverty. Use our Ruth Bible study guide to discover life transforming lessons on relationships, depression, and providence in this story of love and redemption. Mahlon was married to Ruth while Chillion was married to Orpah. Ignorance isnt always bliss. Plus, Naomi was too old to have any more children. But she didnt. 6 Relationship lessons from the book of Ruth . Because of the famine in Bethlehem he decided to move his family to Moab. We just talked about some of the qualities of Boaz that makes him a great biblical example of the kind of man to date and marry. If there was ever a Hallmark-worthy story in the Bible, this is it. 1. THE BOOK OF RUTH Lesson 3: Chapters 3:6-4:22 Boaz Becomes Ruth's Blood Redeemer Previous Ruth Lessons List. 6 Relationship Lessons from the Book of Ruth There are many things married and single people can learn about in the Book of Ruth. No enemy does all this: Israelites do it to each other. Thats not to say he didnt already have a wife though. Boaz is a type of Christ, meaning, he had many characteristics of Christ and foreshadowed what Jesus was going to do for humanity. The truth is that this other kinsman should have already come forward to claim Ruth and help to get settled. Even though we are basically desolate because of our sinful actions, we will all be forgiven and have the opportunity to make our lives better. Boaz didnt seem to have this concern. Or do they follow Naomi into an unpredictable future where Jehovah would lead? No matter what, they see it all and because they are there each day its easy to get lost in that safety net. Instead couples should have equal say on what happens within a relationship and each voice should hold the same value. 4 They married Moabite women, one named Orpah and the other Ruth. Life is hard but when youre when youre outside of Gods will, its hard with a difference. Boaz rescued Ruth from the brink of poverty and enslavement like Jesus did for us. Answer. Sell, buy or rent Meditating in God's Word Judges and Ruth Bible Study Series | Book 1 of 1 | Judg 9781953930200 1953930204, we buy used or new for best buyback price with FREE shipping and offer great deals for buyers. So the Book of Ruth would roughly equate to the Book of Friendship in Hebrew. The good thing is that Boaz wasnt concerned about Ruths past. Her country of origin already made her an outcast, and being a childless widow gave her plenty of reason to shrink back into a shell and simply live her life in obscurity. Go have babies. The story of Naomi and Ruth are woven together closely that their stories are nearly inseparable. He wanted to conduct things in such a way that it was above board and unquestionable. Ruth is just a widow one from an enemy nation, at that. Act 3: Ruth and Boaz are at the threshing floor ( Ruth 3:1-18 ). 1. How would you describe Ruth in the Bible? Here are three lessons from the Book of Ruth for all believers: 1. Boaz was a family member of Elimelech, Naomis deceased husband. He went to meet with the kinsman who was before him in line as well as the elders. Naomi was essentially empty and devastated after she lost her husband and sons. a. Ruth and Boaz got married and had a child they named Obed. The two women shared great sorrow, but they also shared great affection for one another. At the beginning of the Book of Ruth, we meet Ruth, who is a Moabitess. The word that Boaz used to describe Ruth is the same word used to describe the Proverbs 31 woman. The Book of Ruth is literally the Book of Friendship. In Boaz, Jesus shows up to redeem, cover, protect, rescue, and restore. Look out for a man who brings freshness to your life. Boaz invited Ruth to eat with his employees. The Book of Ruth is a fantastic example that exemplifies the rollercoaster ride that love can take us on. Sometimes it seems like I take my worries everywhere except to you. Ruth's and Naomi's journey from heartbreak to hope offers an Old Testament glimpse into God's redemptive power as He transforms a bitter widow and a former idolater into a family legacy . By Boaz, the man who could and would make her life a whole lot better. Instead, he waited for her to choose him. And yet, his fingerprints are all over the events of Ruth. Book of Ruth: summary. As women, we can look up to Ruth as an example of goodness and someone worth emulating. He owned land and servants. . 5 Spiritual Lessons from the Book of Ruth. It doesn't matter if you're a male or female, God cares about everyone the same. In the end, everyone lived their life and love prevailed. She took action. Love One Another The Overlooked Commandment. There are many but I will only go over 6 of them. I imagine that they must have prayed for Gods favor. This tells us that Boaz had a good relationship with his employees. In fact, Naomi encourages both girls to go back to their parents and find husbands who can take care of them. For Ruth everything seemed hopeless when she lost her husband even worse for Naomi. Boaz is presented as a "man of character" ( Ruth 2:1 ). Through Naomi, Ruth learned about the God of Israel and chose to put her trust in him. When it was just a matter of property, it was easy to decide on; but if he must take Ruth as a wife, that was another matter. God be thanked for your love to me. Love was different for all of the women involved Ruth, Orpah and Naomi. However, the contents of this blog post may not be modified, compiled, combined with other content, copied, recorded, synchronized, transmitted, translated, formatted, distributed, publicly displayed, publicly performed, reproduced, given away, used to create derivative works and otherwise used or exploited (including for-profit or commercial gain) without the creators expressed permission. Ruth was one of those women. Ruth 1:1: " In the days when the judges ruled,there was a famine in the land". The Book of Ruth provides many relationship lessons that perpetuate the meaning of true love. Boaz was considerably older than Ruth. When Boaz decided to act on Ruths interest in being married to him, he was not willing to break the law or conduct underhanded business. Boaz did say that Ruth chose not to marry a young man. !!!! Ruth Chapter 4: Fruits of Freedom. Do they stay in the land of their birth where the God of heaven wasnt worshipped? She was childless. The book of Ruth presents the inspiring journey of God's people from tragedy to triumph. Lets face it, no one is perfect! Its there that she meets Boaz, who also turns out to be her redeemer. After Boaz secures his place as her redeemer, the two are married and are later blessed with a son named Obed the grandfather of King David. 6 Naomi was a pious and charitable woman "whose ways were nice and pleasant." 7 Ruth considered her a spiritual guide whose advice . I went out full, and the Lord hath brought me home again empty. (Ruth 1:20,21a KJV). Thankfully, she had Naomi to help. Just look at the five women mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus: Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, and Mary. Boaz did this without any apparent expectation of getting anything from Ruth. Build Your Life On A Strong Foundation. Ruth 1:3: "Now Elimelek, Naomi's husband, died, and she was left with her two sons. But it was Ruths love for Naomi that made her willing to leave her country to return to Israel. She admitted that she felt that God had dealt with her bitterly. Their choices do not mean that one is better than the other. She doesnt have great riches or great position. Whether youre dating or married, your man is flesh and bones. Required fields are marked *. Where in the Bible does it talk about Ruth and Boaz? It seems that Naomi's entire life crumbles in those years. Boaz knew that he had every right to be Ruths kinsman, so he could have demanded her hand in marriage whether Ruth wanted to or not. Ruth was the Moabite daughter-in-law of a Jewess named Naomi. This was backbreaking work. So she went down to the threshing floor and did according to all that her mother-in-law instructed her. It really is that simple! Elimelech of Bethlehem departs the country for Moab, taking his wife Naomi and their two sons along. Ruth is an interesting Biblical story because it contains no miracles or prophecies. It was all manual labor. She could not be accused of being idle. Ruth had no family in Bethlehem so Boaz did not have the opportunity to know about her through their eyes. Love is organic and the Book of Ruth is just one of the best examples to portray these ideal. She had nowhere to go and yearned to feel complete, so she returned to Judah. God orchestrated the events of both their lives to make finding love again possible for Ruth. No earth-shattering miracles, like the Red Sea parting, happen in her life. And this was in a time when women werent ordinarily included in genealogies. More often than not, youll find that love mirrors our reality in many cases within biblical stories. Ruth and Naomi Relationship Principle #4 Trust God. There was a law that provided this opportunity. But one thing is sure: Boaz didnt add to Ruths stress. And Ruth, without being asked by Naomi, saw the value and took advantage of the opportunity. He called her virtuous. Both of her parents worked in the church. To some extent, she might be considered naive. Ruth 2:4 The Right Relationship Between Masters and Servants; Ruth 2:5-7 Attention to the Stranger at the Gate; Ruth 2:5-7 Introduction to a Future Wife; The story of Ruth and Boaz in the Bible is one of the most romantic in Scripture. I. The Book of Ruth begins with a tale of famine in the Holy Land. Look out for a man who is willing to wait for you without pressure. : , , As we see in Ruth 1:16, Ruth chose that she will serve the God of Naomi even to the point of death as she had fully resolved and purposed in her heart. In the moments where life feels like its crushing you, start with a little faith. Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab, Boaz the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth, Obed the father of Jesse. While in Moab, the boys get married. Blessings occur seven times in the book of Ruth, from Naomi blessing both her daughters-in-law (1:8) and Boaz (2:19-20), to Boaz's casual blessing of his workers (2:4) and deeper blessing of Ruth (3:10), and climactically to the women blessing the Lord for the birth of the child (4:14). There will be days where you completely mess things up and there will be other days when you succeed in every aspect. It analyzes the lessons and events of the book of Ruth and shows how they apply to modern-day life and experiences. This kindness is greater than that which you showed earlier: You have not run after the younger men, whether rich or poor. Tamar resorted to trickery to bear a son. He wanted to make sure she was ok. Look for a giving, unselfish man. It was an enemy nation, and Israelites tended to look down on the Moabites. We also see the freedom in their relationship. You will be surprised at how much growth will take place in your life and how much less the struggle to your next level will be. God is the perfect match maker. As the kindness of Boaz increased, Ruth was invited by Boaz to eat at the table he prepared for his workers. The story of Naomi, Ruth and Boaz ( Ruth 1-4) is one of the most moving accounts in the Bible. Naomi and her daughter-in-law Ruth decided to move back to Bethlehem in Judah because they were heartbroken and lost. Everything that she did showed her character, and because of that character, she was honored by God. It has really helped me to still have hope even in difficulty times. He was wealthy but he gave more than grains and barley. Ruth is a woman of great character who embodies many positive traits. The Book of Ruth provides us with a great story about love. Listen To The Advice of The Wise. She was the same person wherever she went. Serving God Requires Faith. At the time this story is unfolding, Israel had strayed from Gods will. For example, both belong to the same sex but from different . You see, we are all desolate as a result of our sinful natures. He didnt judge her past and didnt penalize her instead he embraced her past by also providing for Naomi. When life brings trouble on us it is not easy to still hope on God for better days but this is exactly what God wants us to do. Ruths story is one that exemplifies the reality that so many of us are thrown at every day death, love, heartache, falling into love and even compassion for others that share love. The rest of the book tells how Ruth married a . There are many things married and single people can learn about in the Book of Ruth. She pictured responsible living - 1:9-10, 14. The book of Ruth found in the Old Testament is one of the few Bible . Samson's relationship with Delilah is a far cry from Ruth's relationship with Boaz. Two of the most popular judges in Scripture were Deborah and Samson. She lost her husband and her two sons. When you least expect it God provides His children with the things they need in life. First, Elimelech dies then both Mahlon and Chillion die. Grief and sorrow do not trump love. Boaz was ready to call Ruth his bride and wife just like Jesus calls us his bride. The past is the past. This is an important truth for us today. The choice is always yours. Now the way was clear for him to marry Ruth. Naomi reminded Ruth that she was free to leave and go back to her family. Naomi, later on, lost her husband and she was left with her two sons. The story has three main characters: Naomi, Ruth and Boaz. But when it comes to relationships, its even harder. Related: How to Choose Faith . They choose to stay together and forge a union. So he did the next best thing. Rahab was a prostitute whose faith saved her from the crashing walls of Jericho. She wasnt expecting this level of kindness and she that as a stranger this was very much out of the ordinary. They have nothing, so Ruth goes to work in the grain fields so they have enough food to eat. As you watch Ruth going to field to work daily and keep her integrity even Im poverty, does that describe you? 2: Ruth wins Boaz's admiration and protection. This is an outstanding characteristic of Ruth in the Bible because this world has become so full of ungrateful people who are never satisfied and complain about everything. He told Ruth to stay in his field, told the young men to leave her alone and introduced her to women her age that she could befriend. No matter what devastating situation comes into play, love will conquer all because it is ultimately what brings people together. The Hebrew word Boaz used to describe Ruth means some one of moral strength, sound integrity and courage. What you are looking for is consistency. There is no bitterness or hostility that shadows over their relationship. Later tragically, Naomis husband and two sons died. He immediately takes to her and starts to protect her. A selfish man will give you headaches. Ruths diligence was being observed without her knowing it. 4:17). Well, there is a lot to be said about her. This next characteristic of Ruth in the Bible has to do with who she was at heart. Ruth was a Moabite woman and was considered to be a foreigner in Judah, which was a huge deal in their culture at that time. The word root for the name "Ruth"in Hebrew, "Rooth"means "friendship" or "friend.". He died where there was plenty to feed his body but nothing to feed his soul. What makes the story particularly interesting is that Ruth is . One of the moral lessons we can get from the bible story of Ruth is the importance of making wise choices as Ruth did in Ruth 1:16-18 that made her choose to stay with Naomi despite Orpah choosing otherwise. However, if we look forward and allow our compassion for one another fuel our outlook then we will see how love can flourish. Ruth means friend or companion. A simple Moabite widow becomes an essential character in the powerful story of salvation woven through the Bible. And thats why when youre dating you should probably spend lots of time outdoors or around other people. This short by fascinating book tells the story of a woman, who comes to Israel with her mother-in-law, after the deaths of both of their husbands. But she cannot wash her face with the looking-glass. The passage suggests that he wasnt always there. Ruth the Moabite is loyal to Yahweh and Naomi. 1:6-22: Widowed Naomi and her daughter-in-law Ruth return to Bethlehem. There will be days where you completely mess things up and there will be other days when you succeed in every aspect. So Ruth took on the responsibility of providing for them. Clearly, the exalted nation of Israel, God's chosen people, has lost its sense of direction. Naomi and her husband decided to move away from Judah to Moab because of a terrible famine that was hurting their family. However, Naomi stayed committed to her daughter-in-law and wanted her to follow the God of Israel. The Midrash points out that Ruth would only go to the fields with the permission of her mother-in-law. The book of Ruth begins by looking at the life of Naomi. There are two texts in the book of Ruth which speak to the relationship of conjugal love to divine love. Boaz was willing to claim Ruth publicly. Their . Lesson #4 - Sharing Openly About Our Relationship with God Brings Intimacy to Relationships The story of Naomi and Ruth are woven together closely that their stories are nearly inseparable. Nineteenth-century American historian Elizabeth Ellet imagines that Ruth's beauty and foreign appearance attracted Boaz's attention.. Many interpreters read Ruth as a happy-ending romance featuring Ruth, the beautiful young Moabite widow who captivated the heart of the older wealthy landowner Boaz. In the midst of any circumstances you face, in whatever relationships, we can trust God to bring good out of it. One of the most important Naomi and Ruth relationship principles is to trust God. Everyone loves in a different way and has a unique relationship that cannot be replicated or reproduced. Now that we have dealt with what it means to wait for your Boaz, there are some other relationship nuggets buried in the story. But Boaz was willing to follow the proper civil procedures to have Ruth. Boaz meant that she was a valiant woman of great moral integrity. Ruth and Boaz had a child together and he also took care of Naomi. Sometimes were afraid that sharing our questions and doubts and disappointments will turn other people away from God, when actually, sharing about our relationship with God openly can bring more intimacy to our relationships and help draw other people to their own faith. Things will go faster and will be much better. 51 Best Bible Verses About Relationship With God. Ruth had a whole lot to learn. 33 Short Bible Verses About . Her name might have formed the core of the qualities she possessed. She chose to serve the God of Naomi, and she believed there was still life left for her to live. Do you have a mentor? At the very beginning of the book of Ruth, shes living in Moab, her home nation. He knew this man well enough to know how he would respond to each part of the proposition. relationship between God and his people and vice versa." Without the reality of erotic conjugal love, our knowledge of God's love would be so much the poorer. And yet the life of a foreign widow who has nothing becomes so important that its included in the Bible and her name recognized in the lineage of Jesus. Ruth abandoned his family and journey with Naomi back home . The entire Bible is about how God orchestrated history in an effort to save us. Naomi is the one who sets the tone for her relationship with daughter-in-law Ruth. In the book of Ruth, we see Boaz as a type of Christ hes the redeemer of Ruth. Ruth is also one of the few women who are mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus found in the book of Matthew. Mrs. Mckinnel would stay at home, while her father was the type of person who saw well in everyone. They were living in Moab when both of their husbands died. Ruth was taken and overwhelmed with his kindness that she bowed before Boaz.