(story told in the book of Ruth)
The story of Ruth and Naomi begins during a time of famine in Israel. Naomi and her family left their home in Bethlehem to live in Moab, where her two sons married Moabite women named Orpah and Ruth. Sadly, Naomi’s husband and both sons died, leaving the three women widowed and heartbroken. Hearing that the famine in Israel had ended, Naomi decided to return home. She urged her daughters-in-law to stay in Moab, but Ruth refused to leave her.
Ruth’s devotion became one of the most beautiful expressions of loyalty in the Bible. She told Naomi, “Where you go, I will go; your people will be my people, and your God my God.” Together they returned to Bethlehem, where Ruth began working in the fields to provide for them. She happened to gather grain in the field of a kind man named Boaz, who was a relative of Naomi’s late husband.
Boaz noticed Ruth’s hard work and kindness. Naomi realized that Boaz could serve as a family redeemer—someone who could care for them and continue their family line. Following Naomi’s wise advice, Ruth approached Boaz humbly, asking for his protection and marriage. Boaz admired her character and agreed, after ensuring everything was done according to their laws.
Boaz married Ruth, and they had a son named Obed. Naomi’s sadness turned to joy as she held her grandson, seeing God’s faithfulness restore what had been lost.
The story of Ruth and Naomi shows how love, loyalty, and faith can bring hope in the darkest times. Through Ruth’s faithfulness, God wove an incredible plan—she became the great-grandmother of King David and part of the family line of Jesus Christ.