Ruth 1:7

New King James Version

Therefore, she went out from the place where she was, and her two daughters-in-law with her; and they went on the way to return to the land of Judah.

For Meditation

Three women—widowed and clinging to each other for support and encouragement. Moab has dealt them with three cruel blows – the death of their loved ones. 

Naomi and her two daughters-in-law – Orpah and Ruth – have lived together for some time with no hope for the future. But Bethlehem has opened to them with a glimmer of hope. Mother-in-law goes back to her homeland, and her two daughters-in-law weigh their chances with her. Should they or should they not?

Naomi: 

Uncertain what Bethlehem holds for her, despite the good news of God’s visitation. How is she going to adjust with her two daughters-in-law—foreigners in a strange land? Will her people be kind to them? Can they get husbands in Judah, being that they are Moabites—a people forbidden by God to enter His assembly (Deuteronomy 23:3)? Will the young women remain faithful to her as they had been?

 Orpah: 

Undetermined and assailed by emotions. Orpah wants to go to Bethlehem, but her heart is not at peace with the prospects. Still holding on to the past, she wants to please her mother-in-law. Is it for the adventure it presents or the opportunity it waves before her?

 Ruth: 

Faithful to the core, she has determined to go with Naomi. Her love for her is genuine, and she has closed the door on her family, nation, and their gods. She is trusting in the faithfulness of the God of Israel. She has known Him so well from the life of Naomi. Yet, she expects nothing but the welfare of her mother-in-law.

 With her two daughters-in-law, Naomi left Moab and set out on the road that would take her back to the land of Judah. Whose resolve will prevail (Ruth 1:8-19)?

Does any of these women’s situations resonate with you? Are you struggling through a critical decision?

My counsel to you is to listen to your heart. Is it after God’s will and honor? Does it seek to bless someone in dire need with the love of God? Are you at peace with it?

Then listen to your heart and step out boldly by faith as Ruth did (16-17) and see what God will do for you in Christ Jesus. Amen!