05/14/2026
These past few weeks we have ventured through some of the women in the bible and the story of Book of Ruth is a powerful story of loyalty, faith, redemption, and God’s providence.
The Story of Ruth:
Ruth was a Moabite woman who married into an Israelite family. After her husband died, her mother-in-law Naomi decided to return to Bethlehem after experiencing great loss and hardship. Naomi encouraged Ruth to stay behind and return to her own people, but Ruth refused.
One of the most famous verses from the Bible comes from Ruth’s response to Naomi:
“Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.” — Ruth 1:16
Ruth chose loyalty, love, and faith over comfort and familiarity.
When they arrived in Bethlehem, Ruth worked in the fields gathering leftover grain to provide food for Naomi and herself. She happened to work in the fields of a kind and wealthy man named Boaz, who noticed Ruth’s character, compassion, and dedication to Naomi.
Boaz eventually became Ruth’s “kinsman redeemer,” meaning he legally protected and cared for her family. He married Ruth, restoring hope and security to Naomi’s family.
Why Ruth’s Story Matters...Ruth teaches us about unwavering loyalty. She shows courage in uncertain seasons.
Her faithfulness during hardship led to unexpected blessings.
Ruth became part of the family line of Jesus Christ, showing how God can use anyone, regardless of background, for His greater purpose.
Ruth’s story reminds us that even in seasons of grief and uncertainty, God is still working behind the scenes for good.
