Part 2 of 8 of the theme 'Lessons from the Book of Ruth‘ by Gijs van den Brink

The story of Ruth begins with a famine in Israel (1:2-6). Famine, according to the Torah, can be a consequence of disobedience and apostasy (cf. Lev. 26:19-20). The latter often happened in the time of the Judges. Elimelech is desperate and leaves Bethlehem with his wife to go to Moab. Instead of repenting, he flees the promised land. He wants to rebuild his life in Moab with his sons, but finds death there. His sons Machlon and Kiljon also die. The sons leave behind two widows, Orpah and Ruth. The fleeing to Moab, the dying of Elimelech and the dying of the two sons are consequences of God's judgment.
And now Naomi has come to think that God has turned against her, that He has become her enemy (1:13, 21). Yet this is different. God has plans that Naomi does not yet realize at that time. She does not yet see that all this is going to have a good effect. God can make something beautiful out of the most difficult circumstances (compare Rom. 8:28).

A Moabite was not to come into the assembly of the Lord. This is clearly stated in the Law of Moses (Deut.23:4). Therefore, it is grace from God that Ruth's decision to stay with Naomi and serve the God of Israel allowed her to belong to God's people. This is also how it happened in the time of Jesus. For example, with the Canaanese woman (Mat. 15:21-28) who asked Jesus to deliver her daughter from an evil spirit. She too had no right to do this, but Jesus did. And then there is the Roman chieftain, who asked Jesus to heal his paralyzed son (Mat. 8:5-13). And Jesus did it, even though He had come for the Jews (see Mat.15:24). And after Pentecost, God even opened the door for all Gentiles to convert to the God of Israel.

Next time: Part 3 of the series 'Lessons from the Book of Ruth' is entitled 'God's guidance and His purpose in our lives'

Also see: Part 1 of 8 from the theme 'Lessons from the Book of Ruth' The godless chaotic society in the time of Ruth‘

Author: Gijs van den Brink
From: Study Bible Magazine

This is part 2 of 8 from the theme "Lessons from the Book of Ruth” Some of which we will be posting online in the near future. We hope this will help you understand the Bible better!

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