Sunday: Naomi Adversity: Ruth 1:1-5
Although Naomi was a faithful follower of the Lord, she experienced great adversity. She and her family suffered the effects of famine and were displaced from their home. She lost her husband and her two sons. It appeared that the Lord had forsaken her and even turned against her. Like Naomi, believers may be faithful to Christ, yet experience great adversity in their lives; this does not mean that God has forsaken them or is punishing them. In times of trouble, God continues to work for our good. (Roman 8:28, 36)
Monday: Naomi Leaves Moab: Ruth 1:6-13
Naomi urged her two daughters-in-law to stay in their own homeland. The selfless devotion and love that existed between Naomi and Ruth teaches us that true piety always includes loving care and personal sacrifice for members of our own families. (Ephesians 5:21-6:4)
Tuesday: Ruth’s Steadfast Love: Ruth 1:14-18
Naomi had evidently imparted to Ruth her faith in the Lord God by example and teaching. Ruth’s faith in God caused her to remain faithful in her love for Naomi. Ruth illustrates the divine principle that whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. (Matthew 10:39; Ruth 4:13-17)
Wednesday: Naomi & Ruth Go to Bethlehem: Ruth 1:19-22
As a natural reaction, Naomi blamed God for her misfortune. Naomi was conscious of her own wrong-doing and viewed her suffering as God’s punishment for her own sins. On the other hand, God views affliction as a necessary part of His sovereign and loving purpose. A believer going through the fire can produce a beautiful and pleasant aroma to the Lord. (Ecclesiastes 7:14; Psalms 33; Isaiah 43; 1 Peter 5)
Thursday: God’s Providence: Ruth 2:1-3
In the law of Moses, God had commanded Israel to permit the poor and needy to gather the grain left in the fields after harvest. God wants those who have enough to share with those in need. (Leviticus 19:9; 23:22; 2 Corinthians 8:13-15)
Friday: God’s Provision: Ruth 2:4-16
Even in the midst of great apostasy during the period of the judges, God watched over those who sought him in sincere trust and committed faith. Ruth’s story is the story of God’s provision in the lives of all who trust in Him and follow His ways. (Psalms 17:8; 36:7; 63:7)
Saturday: Ruth Shares with Naomi: Ruth 2:17-23
When Ruth shared with her, Naomi began to understand that God had not forsaken her and that His love and kindness toward her were indeed continuing. Her attitude changed from her earlier perception that God had turned against her.