Ruth 1:1-14 - Naomi and Her Daughters-In-Law

Ruth 1:1-14

But Naomi said, “Return, my daughters. Why should you go with me? Do I still have sons in my womb, that they may be your husbands? (v.11)"

Message: Naomi and Her Daughters-In-Law

Time: According to Jewish tradition, Samuel wrote the book of Ruth. The events of Ruth occurred sometime between 1160 BC and 1100 BC. This book stands as a ray of light, showing the power of the love between God and His faithful people, even during difficult times that were present. It is written from Naomi's point of view. Ruth is the gift God placed in Naomi's life. 

What the Lord is Saying: In verse 1 it says "in the days when the judges governed" so this book seems to be at the tail end of the time of the book of Judges. And perhaps a little beyond that time. There is a famine going on and the book mentions a family in verse 2 -- the man Elimelech, his wife, Naomi; and his two sons Mahlon and Chilion; Ephrathites of Bethlehem in Judah. "They entered the land of Moab and remained there." Then in verse 3, Elimelech dies. Her sons took wives - Orpah and Ruth. But then the sons died. So the 3 women remained (v.3-5). 

The 3 of them return to Judah because they heard of food being present. But Naomi tells Orpah and Ruth to return to their homes. She says there is no reason for them to continue with her. But they do not want to go. Naomi says they shouldn't wait for more husbands from her. Orpah leaves but Ruth will not leave and clings to her. 

I don't see many lessons or any lessons really in these verses. The commentary devotional I use, Tabletalk, makes mention that Elimelech took his wife to Moab. The Moabites were enemies of Israel and worshipped Balaam, so surprising Elimelech would take his wife and family there. Yet, Ruth was a Moabite. 

Summary: Naomi and her family go to Moab and get two wives, though all of the men then die and Naomi returns to Judah only with one wife--Ruth. 

Promise: From Tabletalk, "Let us strive to obey the Lord, and if we find ourselves in a bad situation due to our sin, let us pray that the Lord would bring redemption out of it."

Prayer: Lord, this is an interesting start to the story of Naomi and Ruth. I am reminded of your sovereignty here. And the importance of family and friendships. Continue to teach me through your Word.

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.