Examining the remarkable biblical exploits of Ruth is a way during March, Women’s History Month, to see and honor how women have changed history—through deeds great or small.
The story of Ruth in the Bible tells of unwavering commitment and loyalty, trust in God, and shows how an unlikely person can become part of something significant; in Ruth’s case, it means being one of the few women in the lineage of Jesus.
Commitment of Ruth
In our world, people often change their mind at the first sign of inconvenience. They may say they’ll do something only to not show up or cancel at the last minute. Commitment is being devoted to something, and of people keeping their word. Ruth, in Ruth 1, shows great loyalty and commitment to her mother-in-law, Naomi, famously saying: “Where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there will I be buried. May the Lord do so to me and more also if anything but death parts me from you” [Ruth 1:16-17 ESV].
Ruth is a beautiful example of strong commitment to someone else, and following through, despite every challenge.
Ruth’s trust in God
Ruth’s made her commitment to Naomi, and also committed to serve Naomi’s God. Her devotion and trust in God show clearly in her willingness to leave her home and come to a new country, even after Naomi ordered her to go back. Ruth likely understood that returning to her homeland meant again serving the Moabite gods. Instead, she left behind her previous life and whatever comforts or protection it offered. She put her full trust and confidence in the true God, and in His provision.
Diligence
When Ruth and Naomi returned to Bethlehem, Ruth went to work. She trusted God to provide her work, asking Naomi, “’Let me go to the field and glean among the ears of grain after him in whose sight I shall find favor’” [Ruth 2:2 ESV]. Her diligence to provide food for Naomi demonstrates her care for others.
Her humility is reflected in her response to Boaz while gleaning in his field: “’Why have I found favor in your eyes, that you should take notice of me, since I am a foreigner?’” [Ruth 2:10 ESV]. She didn’t demand his notice or favor but reacted in humility.
Covenant
Ruth, though not Jewish by birth, became part of God’s covenant people. Hers is a redemption story, of how someone unlikely can become great in God’s kingdom. As she served her mother-in-law and put her trust in God, she became part of God’s plan to save humanity through Jesus. Years later, we can celebrate and honor her legacy, inspired by her loyalty, humility, and faith.
