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The Book of Ruth: Five Real-life Applications for Today

Introduction:
What is the value of the book of Ruth? For many, it is a rare example of a woman being used for God's purposes in the Bible. For others, a love story that contains principles on how young men and women ought to be devoted to God first and foremost, without pursuing romantic relationships. Others look to the last chapter and see it as a step on the way to Salvation. While it may be all these things, there is much more to this book, embedded in the words, actions, and happenings of the story. It has been a blessing to take a closer look.

The Story of Ruth:
Twice, the book of Ruth places itself in the time of the Judges, after the conquest of Israel, but before the monarchy. A more specific time is not given, but the fact that Elimelech and Naomi's sons take Moabite wives could indicate that this story belongs at the time of Judges chapter 3, when Israel began to slide away from God and turning to Moab. This was risky business for the Israelites. The Moabites were an ungodly nation descendant of Lot and his daughter (Gen.19:37). Israel had been warned against relations with them, and the Law even forbade the entry of any Moabite into the community of Israel (Dt 23:3). Later, God would judge Moab through the leadership of Ehud (Judges 3). Oddly, this story does not condemn Ruth for her identity; rather it elevates her as an example of faithfulness.

Ruth's story begins when she marries Mahlon, and Israelite living in Moab because of a famine in his own country of Israel. When her husband, father-in-law, and brother-in-law pass away she returns to Israel with her mother-in-law Naomi, after making a remarkable, unprecedented confession of faith. Upon her return, Naomi sums up her situation:

"'Don't call me Naomi', she told them, Call me Mara (bitter), because the Almighty has made my life very bitter. I went away full, but the Lord has brought me back empty. Why call me Naomi? The Lord has afflicted me; the Almighty has brought misfortune upon me'" (Ruth 1:20-21).

Interestingly, this accusation goes unchallenged by any of the listeners. It would seem as if this "charge" against God is left for Him to answer to Himself.

The practical outworking of Ruth's faithfulness is seen through her hard work to provide for herself and Naomi. This is noticed by many, not the least of which, is Boaz, a near kinsman. "May you be richly rewarded by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take

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