Ruth 3—4: Sadness Swallowed Up by Joy
LIFE IS LIKE a grindstone, someone once said, and whether it grinds you down or polishes you depends on the stuff you are made of. It also depends on your view of God. Some people seem to get more hard knocks in life than others, and if you say, "That's not fair," you are probably right. Life isn't always fair. But the question is, even in the hardest circumstances, is God in control? If he is, that means he can change the bitterness of our hard experiences.
Warming Up to God
Naomi is a case study in hardship. Despite Naomi's trials, Ruth's insistence on returning with her is strong indication of God's care. Gradually it dawns on Naomi that God has provided for her and Ruth in ways she had never expected. In these two chapters we see Naomi's bitterness turned to joy.
Read Ruth 3-4. »
Discovering the Word
- How does Naomi plan for Ruth's future (3:1-4)?
- "To spread the corners of your garment over me" (3:9) was a request for marriage. Why might this be a risky plan?
- How would you evaluate Boaz's character from his actions in these two chapters?
- What does the birth of Obed mean to Naomi (4:13-17)?
- What is the turning point in Naomi's life from the bitterness she expressed as she returned to Bethlehem (1:20) to the joy she feels at the end of the story (4:16)?
Applying the Word
- Naomi's grandson becomes an ancestor of King David and is mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus in Matthew 1:5. What do you learn about God from the amazing ways in which he blesses Naomi after all her tragedies?
- In what ways has God shown his faithfulness to you and changed your sorrow to joy?
Responding in Prayer
Praise God for the Redeemer he has given us in Jesus Christ. Thank him for the joy that he brings into your life.
For Further Study
Relentless Lover by Bill Donahue