Ruth·Chapter 2

How to Apply

This week, think about someone in your life who might need a little extra support—maybe a friend who's going through a tough time or a neighbor who could use help with groceries. Reach out to them! You could offer to share a meal, lend a helping hand, or simply check in with a kind message. Also, take a moment to appreciate the blessings you have, just like Ruth did, and consider how you can pass that generosity along to others in your community.

Chapter Context

This verse is a pivotal moment in a story that’s all about loyalty, love, and hard work. Ruth, a young widow, has been gleaning in the fields to provide for herself and her mother-in-law, Naomi. After a long day of gathering scraps left behind by the harvesters, she returns home with a surprising amount of food. This moment showcases her determination and the kindness of those around her. It sets the stage for the next steps in their journey, hinting at the possibilities of new beginnings and the generosity that can bloom from hardship. Ruth's efforts not only sustain them but also weave them into the larger story of hope and redemption.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• took - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• up - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• went - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• into - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• city - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• motherinlaw - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• what - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• she - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• also - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• and - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

When have you experienced a moment where someone's kindness made a difference in your life, similar to what Ruth experienced with her mother-in-law?

Related Verses

• Leviticus 19:9-10 - This verse talks about leaving the edges of your fields unharvested for the poor, showing the roots of community care.
• Galatians 6:2 - It encourages us to help carry each other's burdens, just like Ruth did for Naomi.
• James 1:27 - This verse emphasizes the importance of looking after those in need, which resonates with Ruth's actions of providing for Naomi.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Ruth 2:18. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Verses

Ruth 2:2, Ruth 2:12, Ruth 2:14, Ruth 2:19, Ruth 2:20

Historical Context

The Book of Ruth is set during the time of the judges, a period characterized by social upheaval and moral ambiguity in Israel. This historical backdrop emphasizes the need for divine intervention and the demonstration of God's faithfulness through ordinary lives. Naomi, having returned to Bethlehem after losing her husband and sons, represents a figure in need of restoration. Ruth, a Moabite widow, challenges social norms by integrating into the Israelite community. Her gleaning in the fields not only provides for her and Naomi but also sets in motion a series of events that highlight God's providential care. The concept of gleaning itself is rooted in the Mosaic Law, which allowed the poor and foreigners to collect leftover harvests, thereby establishing a form of social justice.