The Bible is truly an epic tale, with kingdom shattering rebellion and miraculous deliverance seen throughout its pages. Yet during the national turmoil of the book of Judges, and before the rise of the monarchy, is a simple, relatable love story – with epic ramifications.
Here enters the book of Ruth. Sandwiched between stories of national intrigue is a tale of average people going about their ordinary lives. Their lives, often like our own, were filled with hardship. Yet in the midst of the hardship of becoming widows, Naomi and Ruth’s loyalty and love would eventually lead to unforeseen hope. Their difficult journey led them to trust in the Almighty God who sovereignly and compassionately ordained even their hardships for their good, and the eventual redemption of His people. In a time of great need, Ruth and Naomi are provided for through Boaz, a Kinsman Redeemer, who marries Ruth. She bears a son, and through her family line David, the King of Israel would be born – so too would Jesus, the King of Kings. What a story!! In the midst of great personal difficulty, God still worked His will to accomplish His purposes. As the great poem states, “behind a frowning providence, He hides a smiling face.” As we delve further into this storyline, we will have the privilege of seeing a God who is working all things, great and small, together “for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28).