Day 58 – Ruth: The Journey

“Then the women of the town said to Naomi, “Praise the Lord, who has now provided a redeemer for your family! May this child be famous in Israel. May he restore your youth and care for you in your old age. For he is the son of your daughter-in-law who loves you and has been better to you than seven sons!” Ruth 4:14-15

Reading: Ruth 1:1 to Ruth 4:22

We’ve all been there… that low point in your life when it feels like your heart is shattered and you have nothing to live for anymore because “what’s the point” right? In that moment we don’t see the journey ahead. We don’t see God’s plan and it feels like navigating this road through trials and tribulations will never end. But, as we start the story of Ruth, we see the outcome of God’s hand in everything. Looking back at those low points in my life, the journey, and where I am today – I see God’s hand in my life too.

Chapter 1 describes Ruth’s loyalty to her mother-in-law and the conscious decision she made to change her life. She left her old life behind and chose to follow the God of Israel, knowing full well there was none to care for them. In her sorrow of widowhood, she chose to be the support pillar for her widowed mother-in-law, Naomi.

In Chapter 2, we see Ruth’s willingness to provide for herself and Naomi by any means necessary. She humbly served the Lord by selflessly caring for them without complaint.

Chapter 3 introduces us to Hebrew customs, laws, and politics, as Naomi guides Ruth to approach Boaz. Boaz, in turn, takes steps to become their kinsman-redeemer.

The book concludes with a “happily ever after” as Ruth and Boaz marry, and their children’s lineage is listed, tracing the earthly generational line of Jesus.

When we take the risk of putting our faith in Christ, God saves us, forgives us, rebuilds our lives, and grants us blessings that will last through eternity. Boaz’s redemption of Ruth serves as a foreshadowing of Christ’s redemption of us.

Prayer: Father, thank You that You have a “happily ever after” planned for us too. That we know, through Jesus Christ who redeemed us, we will spend eternity with You. God, today I choose You. To follow and obey Your Word. Thank You for the grace You give me every day. Amen.