The Story of Ruth

Scripture: Ruth 1:1-18

Song: A Beautiful Life

The book of Ruth is like a rose among thorns, an oasis of refreshment in a parched, deserted land.

Ruth is a testimony to the possibility of living a godly life in an ungodly generation. She lived in the time of the Judges when everyone did “what was right in his own eyes.” Not so Ruth. She was an exception. She proved that we can be exceptions.

Ruth is a tribute to the enthusiasm of first generation believers. Her faith is simple. Her affection is genuine. Her devotion is absolute. She doesn’t know that she’s not supposed to believe.

Ruth is a model of the worthy woman. Put her in any age. Place her in any culture. Shoulder her with any burden, and she’ll bear it with courage. She is the picture of unassuming, unpretentious, unsoiled virtue. Women in our age would beautify and beatify themselves by following her lead.

Ruth is an OT example of the Good Samaritan spirit. She, an outsider to the covenant and an enemy of Israel, showed unexpected kindness to another in need. She went beyond what justice required, and operated on the principle of mercy. It is the better way. It is the Savior’s way.

Ruth is easy to read, easy to love, but hard to follow. Blessed are the ruthful.

Jason Moore