Topical Encyclopedia Ruth, a Moabite woman, is a prominent figure in the Old Testament, particularly in the Book of Ruth. Her account is a profound example of diligence, loyalty, and faithfulness, which are central themes in her narrative. Ruth's life and actions provide a model of steadfastness and hard work, qualities that are highly esteemed in biblical teachings.Background and Context Ruth was the daughter-in-law of Naomi, an Israelite woman who had moved to Moab with her husband and two sons due to a famine in Bethlehem. After the deaths of her husband and sons, Naomi decided to return to Bethlehem. Ruth, despite being a Moabite and having the option to stay in her homeland, chose to accompany Naomi, demonstrating her loyalty and commitment. Her famous declaration, "Where you go, I will go, and where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God" (Ruth 1:16), underscores her determination and faith. Diligence in Action Upon arriving in Bethlehem, Ruth's diligence becomes evident as she takes the initiative to provide for Naomi and herself. She goes to glean in the fields, a practice allowed by Mosaic Law for the poor and foreigners (Leviticus 19:9-10). Ruth's work ethic is highlighted in Ruth 2:7, where the foreman reports to Boaz, the field owner, "She has worked steadily from morning till now, except for a short rest in the shelter" . Her dedication to her task is a testament to her industrious nature. Boaz's Recognition of Ruth's Diligence Boaz, a relative of Naomi's late husband, notices Ruth's hard work and inquires about her. Upon learning of her loyalty to Naomi and her diligent efforts, Boaz extends kindness and protection to her. He instructs his workers to allow her to glean among the sheaves and even leave extra grain for her to collect (Ruth 2:15-16). Boaz's actions reflect the biblical principle that diligence is often rewarded with favor and provision. Ruth's Role in God's Plan Ruth's diligence and faithfulness are not only rewarded with material provision but also play a crucial role in God's redemptive plan. Her marriage to Boaz leads to the birth of Obed, the grandfather of King David, placing her in the lineage of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:5-16). This inclusion of a Moabite woman in the genealogy of Christ underscores the importance of diligence and faithfulness, transcending cultural and ethnic boundaries. Lessons from Ruth's Diligence Ruth's account teaches several key lessons about diligence: 1. Commitment and Loyalty: Ruth's unwavering commitment to Naomi and her willingness to leave her homeland exemplify the depth of loyalty and dedication that diligence requires. 2. Hard Work and Initiative: Ruth's proactive approach to gleaning in the fields demonstrates the importance of taking initiative and working hard, even in challenging circumstances. 3. Faith and Trust in God: Ruth's decision to follow Naomi and embrace the God of Israel reflects her faith and trust in God's provision and plan. 4. Divine Favor and Reward: Ruth's diligence is met with favor from Boaz and ultimately leads to her becoming part of the Messianic lineage, illustrating how God honors and rewards diligent efforts. Ruth's life is a powerful testament to the virtues of diligence, loyalty, and faith, serving as an enduring example for believers seeking to live out these principles in their own lives. Nave's Topical Index Ruth 2:17So she gleaned in the field until even, and beat out that she had gleaned: and it was about an ephah of barley. Nave's Topical Index Library Jeroboam Philip at Antioch Matt. I. 1 How to Keep the Heart Home-Sympathy. God Hath Made Manifest The Septuagint as a Version. The Westminster Confession of Faith. AD 1647. Later Greek Versions. Letter cviii. To Eustochium. Resources What is brotherly kindness? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about idleness/being idle? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about procrastination? | GotQuestions.org Diligence: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Diligence in Temporal Matters Leads to Favor Diligence in Temporal Matters, Leads to Favour Diligence in Temporal Matters, Leads to Honor Diligence in Temporal Matters, Leads to Prosperity Diligence in the Service of God is not in Vain Diligence in the Service of God: Leads to Assured Hope Diligence in the Service of God: Preserves from Evil Diligence in the Service of God: should be Preserved In Diligence: Cultivating Proper Behaviors of a True Christian Diligence: Discharging official Duties Diligence: Following Every Good Work Diligence: Guarding Against Defilement Diligence: Instructing Children Diligence: Jesus an Example of Diligence: Leads to Assured Hope Diligence: Making Our Calling Sure Diligence: Nehemiah and his Helpers Diligence: Preserves from Evil Diligence: Preserving "The Faith" Through Teaching Diligence: Required by God in Cultivating Christian Graces Diligence: Required by God in Discharging official Duties Diligence: Required by God in Following Every Good Work Diligence: Required by God in Guarding Against Defilement Diligence: Required by God in Hearkening to Him Diligence: Required by God in Instructing Children Diligence: Required by God in Keeping the Heart Diligence: Required by God in Keeping the Souls Diligence: Required by God in Labours of Love Diligence: Required by God in Lawful Business Diligence: Required by God in Making Our Call, Sure Diligence: Required by God in Obeying Him Diligence: Required by God in Seeking Him Diligence: Required by God in Seeking to be Found Spotless Diligence: Required by God in Self-Examination Diligence: Required by God in Striving After Perfection Diligence: Required by God in Teaching Religion Diligence: Required in the Service of God Diligence: Saints should Abound In Diligence: Seeking to be Found Spotless Diligence: Striving After Perfection Related Terms Trans-euphrates (12 Occurrences) |
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