CHAPTER SYNOPSIS & DEVOTIONS: Ruth

Read, study, and apply each chapter in Ruth as you read through the Scriptures. 

Ruth 1, Clinging to Faith in Times of Change

Naomi and her family leave Bethlehem due to a famine and settle in Moab. Naomi’s husband and two sons die in Moab, leaving her and her two daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth. Naomi decides to return to Bethlehem and urges her daughters-in-law to stay in Moab. Orpah eventually stays, but Ruth clings to Naomi and vows to stay with her, adopting Naomi's people and God as her own.

Ruth's commitment highlights the power of loyalty and faithfulness. When faced with hardship and change, we should remain steadfast in our commitments, trusting God’s plans. Like Ruth, we can find purpose and blessings by sticking close to those who love God and serve Him with unwavering devotion.

Ruth 2, Integrity that Receives Favor

Ruth gleans in the fields of Boaz, a wealthy relative of Naomi. Boaz notices her diligence and kindness and ensures she is treated well by his workers. He learns of her loyalty to Naomi and praises her for it. Boaz provides Ruth with extra food and instructs his workers to leave additional grain for her.

Boaz’s generosity reflects God's abundant provision. When we act with kindness and diligence, we open ourselves to God's blessings. By serving others with a sincere heart, we invite divine favor into our lives. God rewards faithfulness and integrity, often through unexpected means.

Ruth 3, Bold Faith in Divine Guidance

Naomi instructs Ruth to approach Boaz at the threshing floor and request his protection as her kinsman-redeemer. Ruth follows Naomi’s advice and lies down at Boaz’s feet. Boaz is surprised but agrees to redeem her, noting that he must settle with a closer relative with the first right to redeem.

Ruth's bold step of faith demonstrates courage and trust in God’s guidance. By following wise counsel and acting on faith, we can navigate our own paths to redemption and blessing. Trusting God's plan often requires bold actions and patience as we await His perfect timing.

Ruth 4, A Legacy of Faith and Blessing

Boaz negotiates with the closer relative, who declines the right to redeem Ruth. Boaz then publicly agrees to redeem Ruth and marry her. They marry, and Ruth bears a son named Obed. Naomi cares for the child, and the women of Bethlehem celebrate, recognizing Ruth as blessed and noting that Obed becomes the grandfather of King David.

Boaz’s commitment and Ruth’s faithfulness result in blessings that extend beyond their lifetimes. Their story reminds us that our choices and faithfulness impact future generations. By living according to God's will and making righteous decisions, we contribute to a legacy of faith and blessing for others.