Ruth’s reputation for kindness was widely known in Naomi’s hometown. However, Naomi, Ruth’s mother-in-law, became increasingly bitter over time. She carried the weight of her uncertain future, grieving the loss of her husband and two sons, and enduring the hardships of life and emotional distress. Ruth faced the challenge of living with a bitter individual, an experience that may not have been pleasant.
Despite being advised to leave Naomi and pursue a prosperous life as a young widow, Ruth chose to remain by her side. She refused to give up on her identity and stayed in her rightful place. As a foreigner and stranger in the land, she had little reason to depend on her deceased husband’s family. The family’s wealth and reputation had diminished, and their desires went unfulfilled. Nevertheless, Ruth did not return to her parents and her homeland. Instead, she extended kindness to her mother-in-law (the only existing member of her deceased husband’s family).
Ruth’s good deeds and kindness earned her commendation. Boaz, recognizing her goodwill, believed that the Lord would reward her for her faithfulness and kindness. Despite her circumstances, Ruth determined that her identity was to position herself and find safety and protection under the wings of the Lord. She displayed determination, purpose, kindness, adaptability, and grace, pushing her limits and embracing change.
May we also seek solace in our Heavenly Father’s love, just as Ruth, a stranger, found favor and peace beneath God’s wings.
Taken from Scripture:
11 And Boaz answered and said to her, “It has been fully reported to me, all that you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband, and how you have left your father and your mother and the land of your birth, and have come to a people whom you did not know before. 12 The Lord repay your work, and a full reward be given you by the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings you have come for refuge.”
13 Then she said, “Let me find favor in your sight, my lord; for you have comforted me, and have spoken kindly to your maidservant, though I am not like one of your maidservants.”
Enchantments of a beautiful mind 