Monday: Read Ruth 1:1-18 (p.121-122, end at “…stopped urging her.”)

The hardships of her life left Naomi feeling as though “the Lord’s hand had turned against her.” Have you ever felt similarly? Who were the people who stayed near to you during that time?

 

Tuesday: Read Ruth 1:19-2:7 (p.122-123, end at “…in the shelter.”)

“As it turned out,” Ruth began working in the field of Boaz. Do you think this was just coincidence or divine providence? How can recognizing God’s hand in daily “coincidences” change our perspective?

 

Wednesday: Read Ruth 2:8-23 (p.123-124, end at “…her mother-in-law.”)

Boaz went above and beyond what would have been expected in providing for Ruth. When have you experienced someone’s generosity going far beyond what was expected? How did it make you feel?

 

Thursday: Read Ruth 3:1-15 (p.124-125, end at “…back to town.”)

Ruth approaches Boaz “at his feet” in the middle of the night. This was an incredibly vulnerable and audacious act. When has your faith led you to be vulnerable or bold in a way you wouldn’t have otherwise?

 

Friday: Read Ruth 3:16-4:12 (p.126-127, end at “…bore to Judah.”)

Boaz handled the complex legal and ethical responsibilities associated with being a guardian-redeemer publicly and transparently at the city gate in the presence of the elders. Why is it important to handle difficult, sensitive matters with integrity and transparency rather than in secret?

 

Saturday: Read Ruth 4:13-22 (p.127)

Naomi, who once called herself “Mara” (bitter) and felt as though God had turned against her, is now a joyful grandmother. When have you experienced (or witnessed in someone else’s life) God turning bitterness to joy?

 

* Chapters and page numbers are from The Story: The Bible as One Continuing Story of God and His People. Copies are available in the lobby.