What can we learn from Ruth's choice to stay with Naomi? The Text in Focus “Again they wept aloud, and Orpah kissed her mother-in-law goodbye, but Ruth clung to her.” (Ruth 1:14) The Contrast That Reveals Character • Both daughters-in-law faced the same crossroads: stay with Naomi or return to Moab. • Orpah chose the reasonable, culturally expected path. • Ruth chose the harder, faith-filled path—she “clung” (Hebrew dābaq: to stick like glue). • Scripture uses the same verb for how a man “clings” to his wife (Genesis 2:24) and how believers are to “cling to the LORD” (Deuteronomy 10:20). Ruth’s action is covenant-language, not mere sentiment. Lessons on Covenant Loyalty • True commitment runs deeper than convenience. Ruth bound herself to Naomi when Naomi had nothing to offer her (cf. Proverbs 17:17). • Covenant love reflects God’s own steadfast love; His people mirror Him by keeping promises even when circumstances change (Psalm 136). • Faith looks beyond immediate prospects and trusts God’s unseen provision (2 Corinthians 5:7). Ruth had no guarantee of remarriage or security in Bethlehem, yet she held fast. Faith Expressed Through Costly Choices • Jesus later teaches, “Whoever does not carry his own cross and follow Me cannot be My disciple” (Luke 14:27). Ruth foreshadows this call—she leaves homeland, family, and gods to follow the true God (Ruth 1:16-17). • Her decision illustrates James 2:17—faith proves itself through action. The Ripple Effect of One Obedient Act • Ruth’s clinging sets in motion a chain of grace: gleaning in Boaz’s field, redemption, marriage, and eventually the birth of King David (Ruth 4:17) and, generations later, Jesus the Messiah (Matthew 1:5-6). • Our seemingly small choices of loyalty and faith today can echo into eternity. Encouragement for Today • When faced with a “reasonable” exit, consider the higher call of covenant faithfulness. • Choose relationships that anchor you to God’s purposes, even when they demand sacrifice. • Trust that God weaves redemptive stories through ordinary but faithful decisions, just as He did with Ruth. |
    |