This Is the Old Testament is part of a twelve-week thematic overview of the entire Bible. Each day we’ll read a thematic selection from a different book of the Bible, along with supplemental passages that show how the theme of that day’s main reading is found throughout Scripture. We’ll also read a brief summary of each book and a reflection on how the book fits into the larger story of Scripture. This week, we move from the Pentateuch into the second section of the Old Testament, the Historical Books.
What Is Ruth? The book of Ruth tells the story of a widowed Moabite woman named Ruth whose marriage to Boaz brought hope and a legacy to both herself and her widowed Israelite mother-in-law.
How Ruth Fits Into the Story: Ruth’s covenantal faithfulness to Naomi and to God showed that those who were not born as Israelites could, by faith, still become one of God’s people (Is 56:3–7). The book of Ruth demonstrates how the Lord shows His covenant faithfulness to His people, often in surprising ways. God’s provision for Ruth, an ancestor of David and Jesus, was also a provision for His people’s need for a king.
Reflection Questions:
1. How have you seen God meet your needs? How does God’s provision for you equip you to meet the needs of others?
2. How does today’s reading shape your understanding of the story of redemption?
Take time to reflect on your responses and share what you are learning with others in the community in the comments.
Just thinking… why do you think the original family redeemer changed his mind when he heard the land he was buying also included Ruth?
Just thinking… why do you think the original family redeemer chose
@Victoria E. Thank you. I am north of LA an hour and 15 minutes from Sacramento (the capital). My son was attending BIOLA, but when the pandemic hit he came home. Small world.
1. One time that God met my needs two years ago was when I turned down a job offer. I wasn’t sure I’d find another and was nervous but God brought me the one that is now my dream job. At the time it wasn’t exactly what I wanted – I thought I wanted to teach Pre-K but I got a kindergarten position. God giving me this job brought me to a school that has given me love and support and made me able to give love, grace, and support to students who may not be getting this at home. I am so thankful!
2. God gives us what we need. It may not be what we think we need but He has a plan for each of us. I’m excited to see what else He has in store for me.
I love the book of Ruth. It makes me see God’s love and provision so beautifully. I’m literally in awe of how perfectly he orchestrated his plans; how powerfully he moves to make sure his protection and provision is in our lives. And I am in awe of how he shows us whom he uses is not partial. I’m not sure if I’m saying that right but how he can and does use anyone to make his purpose happen. I just love how he loves and always has loved.
@Mari V what a beautiful testimony! Thank you for sharing. I will continue to pray for your job. Ps I am also on the West Coast, outside of LA :)
@Sarah D I am sorry to hear about your friend but glad to hear you are able to have a conversation with her. I will pray for these conversations and for you after getting the vaccine. As a physician and as a believer I personally think it is the right thing to do to protect others more vulnerable than we ourselves may be. @Taylor I will continue praying for you, I know the pain of a breakup can bring up so many issues and hurt and I also know God can redeem the situation as He has redeemed us all for eternity! Great call on the women mentioned in the lineage of Jesus- thanks for pointing that out !
1. God has met my needs especially when it comes to my anxiety. When I have felt scared or alone, God always reminds me that He is right there with me, and He will continue to walk on this journey with me. It has gotten me through some of the toughest times in my life. I think this can be a testimony that I share with others about how God is provided for me and hopefully give them encouragement. ❤️