When Boaz commented on Ruths character, he did so based on more than just his observation of her. Lesson 3 - Working Isn't A Lack Of Blessing. The book of Ruth is packed with so many lessons about, life, love and faithfulness. Anyone is at liberty to use this lesson for educational purposes only, with or without credit. Now that we have dealt with what it means to wait for your Boaz, there are some other relationship nuggets buried in the story. Here are three lessons from the Book of Ruth for all believers: 1. It has really helped me to still have hope even in difficulty times. They have nothing, so Ruth goes to work in the grain fields so they have enough food to eat. From the beginning, God had a number of smaller things that needed to happen before the bigger plan could come into fruition. She owed nothing to Naomi, but instead gave her everything. On top of that, she was a widow, she was childless, and she lived with her mother-in-law. While you may be going through pain in your current heartbreak, its important to realize that this is all for a reason. Often, we think of the Book of Ruth as "outdated" or "too old," yet there are important lessons we can learn. Naomi and her husband decided to move away from Judah to Moab because of a terrible famine that was hurting their family. Ruth worked from morning till night. Because of Boaz's wise (perhaps shrewd) way of framing the occasion, this was the first time the nearer kinsman considered this, and it was a pretty big question to take in all at once. Learn how your comment data is processed. Like Ruth, we also need to work to be women and men of integrity. Elimelech was trying to escape hard times by leaving Bethlehem to a pagan country. Both Naomi and Ruth experienced a great amount of grief, however both prevail Naomi loses her husband two sons. (NLT). Ruth's story is celebrated during the Jewish festival of Shavuot, the Feast of Weeks, 50 days after Passover. Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab, Boaz the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth, Obed the father of Jesse. Dear Lord, After Naomi's two sons died in Moab, she decided to return to Bethlehem. ISBN-13: . If not, you should probably get one. Orpah decided to stay but Ruth decided to go with Naomi and start over in a new place. 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. 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. She was the same person wherever she went. 5 Spiritual Lessons from the Book of Ruth. However, if we look forward and allow our compassion for one another fuel our outlook then we will see how love can flourish. And yet it was that sharing and intimacy that was the foundation of the deep relationship these two women shared. Now, what are some of these characteristics that you should be looking for in your Boaz? Neither of them knew how theyd survive. Ruth Chapter 4: Fruits of Freedom. Thanks for sharing some of it. And they respond with similar pleasantries. Bible Study: Book of Ruth Chapter 4. Ruth blesses Naomi with her friendship because Naomi never expected to have someone to hold onto after the loss of all the men in her life. Ruth went above and beyond in the way she honored and respected her mother-in-law, and in doing so became known in the entire city as a virtuous woman. She worked hard to provide food for her and her mother-in-law. 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. "Wherever you go I will go, wherever you lodge I will lodge.". God had an amazing plan for Ruth. Its evident that Naomi understands that God wants her to continue her relationship with Ruth and she expresses these feelings with thanks and recognition. 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. She had married the son of an Israelite family while they were living in Moab, but at some point her father-in-law, her husband, and her husband's only brother died. And after Boaz had eaten and drunk, and his heart was cheerful, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain; and she came softly, uncovered his feet, and lay down. How would you describe Ruth in the Bible? Your email address will not be published. The Midrash points out that Ruth would only go to the fields with the permission of her mother-in-law. Its evident that Naomi understands that God wants her to continue her relationship with Ruth and she expresses these feelings with thanks and recognition. 2: Ruth wins Boaz's admiration and protection. But it could also mean a term of endearment. While in Moab, the boys get married. No machines existed. Boaz was a family member of Elimelech, Naomis deceased husband. I went out full, and the Lord hath brought me home again empty. (Ruth 1:20,21a KJV). There are two texts in the book of Ruth which speak to the relationship of conjugal love to divine love. Install Feel The Words on your home screen, and access it just like a regular app. But God had him turn up on the perfect day so he could meet Ruth. And Ruth, she also lost her husband. Issues that require mental and emotional effort should probably happen when people are not tired and hungry. 7 Beautiful Ways to a Better Relationship with Your Mother-in-Law. Hope in Trouble times. Ruth allowed herself to be influenced by Naomi. Life changing conversations should probably happen when both parties are fully present and engaged. Elimelech had intended to go back home. Its hard to have faith. Key Words and Historical Background Notes. Boaz was driven by authentic love for Ruth just like Jesuss love for us caused him to give up heaven for our sake. We dont know what happened to Orpah but we know how God showed up for Ruth. This next characteristic of Ruth in the Bible has to do with who she was at heart. Samson's relationship with Delilah is a far cry from Ruth's relationship with Boaz. There are three lessons that can be learned from Ruth and Naomi's relationship that are reflected in this verse. Note that he addressed her as daughter. At the beginning of the story, we meet Elimelech, the husband of Naomi. If we were to explore them all, this post would never end. Ruth was a model of responsible living in an irresponsible age. He died leaving his wife and sons among ungodly people. Naomi decided to move back to Bethlehem to be near family. Ruth was a Moabite, a nation of pagans and idol worshippers. All rights reserved. Boaz was a type (prophetic symbol) of Christ and His redemptive work in our lives today. This was backbreaking work. : .. Ruth 1:1: " In the days when the judges ruled,there was a famine in the land". So she went down to the threshing floor and did according to all that her mother-in-law instructed her. Boaz took notice of Ruth. But, that was only half the solution to the problem. The book of Ruth found in the Old Testament is one of the few Bible . Its four chapters . Everyone loves in a different way and has a unique relationship that cannot be replicated or reproduced. It's loaded with life lessons; it teaches you about the importance of being at the right place, being ready for change, hope, determination, wisdom, generousity, strategy, kindness, favour, being at your best, the list is endless. In the end, everyone lived their life and love prevailed. But, according to the practices of the time, Boaz was free to take another wife, especially since he was a kinsman. Even when things are hard. The law is also very useful, because it shows us our defections and stains. We dont usually share our unedited feelings and thoughts about God with friends or family members. To become a star is the beginning of the end, I have to convince other Democrats and Republicans, What is the recipe for successful achievement, In commendably seeking to protect freedom. It is this famine that forces Elimelech to take his wife Naomi and their two sons, Mahlon and Chillion, to leave Bethlehem and live in Moab, a pagan community. Even though Ruth wasn't a Jew and was a Moabite, God didn't allow those titles to change His love for Ruth. Boaz did say that Ruth chose not to marry a young man. Naomi told Ruth to bathe, put on her best clothes, and splash on some perfume. Set in the midst of great hardship and tragic loss, the story focuses on loyalty and faithfulness that starkly contrasts the pagan Moabite . She took action. Your email address will not be published. Their relationship offers a beautiful model of a good relationship a stunning look at a blending of lives. You see, we are all desolate as a result of our sinful natures. 1:1-5: Elimelech and his family go to Moab. So the Book of Ruth would roughly equate to the Book of Friendship in Hebrew. These two sons married Moabite women: Orpah and Ruth. After moving to Moab with her husband and sons, she loses her husband and becomes a widow. Lessons from the book of Ruth. Naomi is the one who sets the tone for her relationship with daughter-in-law Ruth. It's very great to learn from the book of Ruth and it's very challenging book and great book very interesting to read this 7 powerful lession. In the Book of Ruth, Orpah and Ruth chose different paths because that was best for them. God had every intention of Ruth being part of the story for the lineage of Jesus. 3: Ruth appeals to Boaz to be the kinsman-redeemer. And when you think of how friendship was all Ruth and Naomi had during a time of serious grief and . God does not enter into the story with fire or glory. No matter what devastating situation comes into play, love will conquer all because it is ultimately what brings people together. She didnt just pray. Clearly, the exalted nation of Israel, God's chosen people, has lost its sense of direction. In fact, Ruth's sister-in-law, Orpah, chose to leave: Everyone experiences grief and sorrow during their lifetime. This is especially important when family isnt available. He was wealthy. Good, godly relationships should not produce more problems and stress than you bargained for. The book of Ruth is a fascinating tale of romance, intrigue, loss, disobedience, and ultimately of faith. which revealed that our heavenly father do not differentiate. Instead, Boaz brought relief to her life. His wife and sons stay on, and the sons marry non-Jewish women - Moabite princesses by the names of Ruth and Orpah. Boaz described Ruth as a woman of noble character. Everyone lives their lives the way it best suits them therefore, others shouldnt judge love. 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. The odds of being taken into marriage were low because she was a stranger among the Hebrews. : , , Its every girls wish to have such a happy ending. Moab was a place that most Israelites didnt like. A man named Elimelech, from Bethlehem-Judah, left his hometown when a famine struck. every one on earth will fail. Our doctrines, practices, policies. And through humility and dependence, Ruth begins to grow in grace. A famine in Canaan forces Elimelech and Naomi, along with their sons, to migrate from Bethlehem to Moab. 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. While there are many things to learn from the story of Ruth, here are seven powerful lessons from this tiny book that stood out to me. 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). She was free to go back to her gods and free to search for a new husband to take care of her. 1. They had hope for their future. And Boaz did not delay in calling a meeting to secure his rights to marry her. so powerful and inspirational, may Almighty God bless those that put their head together to establish this work. but, his promises are true and proved. Mahlon was married to Ruth while Chillion was married to Orpah. Read Ruth 1. Look out for a man who brings freshness to your life. He made kind gestures to reveal his heart to her and left it there. The past is the past. Boaz was a prophetic symbol and his redemptive work lives on even today. Boaz listened to the voices of those who also observed and interacted with her. While Judges is about breaking covenant and leaving torah, Ruth is about keeping covenant . 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. She took action by going to the fields everyday day to glean. Ruth is the festal scroll for Shavuot, the Feast of Weeks, 50 . Make the stories of your life good stories so that even if you die, you will leave a legacy of faith and obedience to God. 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. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Application: God had a wonderful plan for Ruth. No enemy does all this: Israelites do it to each other. Inspiring to Christians single or married, this love story displays God's sovereignty over difficult circumstances in every stage and season of life. Boaz would have needed to set up his inheritance which would include having sons to leave all his wealth to. And she took on a religion that she knew very little about just like Abraham. The indescribable passion and struggles that accompany love is displayed in the Book of Ruth and these actions personify our own struggles that we come face-to-face with on a daily basis. Naomi and her daughter-in-law Ruth decided to move back to Bethlehem in Judah because they were heartbroken and lost. Disclosure: This site contains affiliate links which wont change your price. But Boaz was willing to follow the proper civil procedures to have Ruth. But both of them had faith that somehow things would work out. 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. Site by Gretchen Louise. When entering into a relationship, its important that each person understand and respect the other as an equal. Ruth 1:3: "Now Elimelek, Naomi's husband, died, and she was left with her two sons. He says The Lord be with you. In a place where many would have thought shed be ostracized, she found love with a man named Boaz. First, Elimelech dies then both Mahlon and Chillion die. Ruth had no family in Bethlehem so Boaz did not have the opportunity to know about her through their eyes. Lets look at a few strengths and weaknesses of Ruth in the Bible. With love does come heartache this can is seen through break-ups, divorce, or even death. Naomi reminded Ruth that she was free to leave and go back to her family. And Ruth, without being asked by Naomi, saw the value and took advantage of the opportunity. However, if we look forward and allow our compassion for one another fuel our outlook then we will see how love can flourish. When Ruth gets to Bethlehem, he decided to go to the fields to pick up left over grains for them to grind into flour to use for good. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Naomi's husband died, and her sons married Moabite women. He called her virtuous. It is a story of friendship, family, and redemption. He made a decision that God didnt approve. He immediately takes to her and starts to protect her. But she didnt. He is still working. Whether youre dating or married, your man is flesh and bones. Instead, he waited for her to choose him. Each person within the relationship must understand that everyone has imperfections and its imperative that they come to terms with this reality. 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. Despite the pain, Naomi chooses to stand by her daughter-in-laws side and continue their relationship. There are many things married and single people can learn about in the Book of Ruth. Rahab was a prostitute whose faith saved her from the crashing walls of Jericho. 4:17). God has a Redeemer for our lives, too, and His name is Jesus. Naomi's grief was very real. Are they the same with you as they are with everyone else? Ruth is just a widow one from an enemy nation, at that. As Naomi pointed out, Ruth was free to leave her mother-in-law after the death of her husband. Ruth's decision to stay with Naomi and serve the true living God she served through . Among them is how it illustrates the relationship between Jesus (Yahshua) with His Church. The choice is always yours. In a place where many would have thought shed be ostracized, she found love with a man named Boaz. 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. Her name might have formed the core of the qualities she possessed. Anyone who looked at this foreign widow would have never guessed that God would choose her bloodline for the line of the promised redeemer Jesus. Ruth reminds us that no matter what lies in our past, and no matter how difficult our circumstances may be, a little bit of faith makes a huge difference. 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