The story of Ruth is one of faithfulness, redemption, and God’s providence. Her life, told in the Book of Ruth, stands out as a beautiful picture of love and loyalty during hard times.
1. Ruth Was a Moabite Woman
Ruth was not born an Israelite. She came from Moab, a nation that often opposed Israel (Judges 3:12-14). Despite this, Ruth chose to follow the God of Israel.
Ruth 1:4
“They married Moabite women, one named Orpah and the other Ruth.”
2. She Was the Daughter-in-Law of Naomi
After marrying one of Naomi’s sons, Ruth became part of Naomi’s family. When her husband died, she stayed loyal to Naomi, even when she had every reason to return to her people.
Ruth 1:16
“But Ruth replied, ‘Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay.’”
3. Ruth Chose to Follow God
Ruth’s famous vow to Naomi also showed her faith. She chose to leave behind her gods and follow the Lord, the God of Israel.
Ruth 1:16
“Your people will be my people and your God my God.”
4. She Worked in the Fields to Provide
After arriving in Bethlehem, Ruth worked in the barley fields to support herself and Naomi. This showed her humility and strength.
Ruth 2:2
“And Ruth the Moabite said to Naomi, ‘Let me go to the fields and pick up the leftover grain behind anyone in whose eyes I find favor.’”
5. Boaz Noticed Ruth’s Character
Boaz was a wealthy and respected man. He noticed Ruth not just for her beauty, but for her kindness and loyalty.
Ruth 2:11
“Boaz replied, ‘I’ve been told all about what you have done for your mother-in-law...’”
6. Ruth Found Favor with Boaz
Ruth’s good heart and actions brought her favor. Boaz made sure she was safe and provided food for her and Naomi.
Ruth 2:12
“May the Lord repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the Lord, the God of Israel...”
7. Ruth Followed Naomi’s Advice
When Naomi suggested Ruth go to Boaz at the threshing floor, Ruth obeyed without question. This moment was key in God's plan for Ruth’s future.
Ruth 3:5
“‘I will do whatever you say,’ Ruth answered.”
8. Ruth Became the Wife of Boaz
Boaz was a kinsman-redeemer. That means he had the right to marry Ruth to carry on her husband’s family name. Their union was a blessing from the Lord.
Ruth 4:13
“So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife.”
9. Ruth Was the Great-Grandmother of King David
Ruth and Boaz had a son named Obed. Obed became the father of Jesse, who became the father of David—the future king of Israel.
Ruth 4:17
“The women living there said, ‘Naomi has a son!’ And they named him Obed. He was the father of Jesse, the father of David.”
10. Ruth Is One of Five Women in Jesus’ Lineage
In Matthew 1, Ruth is listed in the genealogy of Jesus. This shows how God used a foreign woman to bring about the Messiah.
Matthew 1:5
“Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab, Boaz the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth...”
Summary Table
| Fact # | Description | Bible Reference |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ruth was from Moab | Ruth 1:4 |
| 2 | Married into Naomi’s family | Ruth 1:4 |
| 3 | Followed Israel’s God | Ruth 1:16 |
| 4 | Gleaned in fields | Ruth 2:2 |
| 5 | Admired by Boaz | Ruth 2:11 |
| 6 | Received favor | Ruth 2:12 |
| 7 | Obeyed Naomi | Ruth 3:5 |
| 8 | Married Boaz | Ruth 4:13 |
| 9 | Great-grandmother of David | Ruth 4:17 |
| 10 | In Jesus’ lineage | Matthew 1:5 |
