Naomi was married to Elimelek, a man from Bethlehem. She followed her husband and their two sons to live in Moab during a famine. The sons both married a Moabite woman and settled there. However, within ten years, Elimelek and both sons died, and Naomi was left with two Gentile daughters-in-law.

Having left without the means to support herself in a foreign land, Naomi decided to return to Bethlehem. She urged Orpah and Ruth, her Moabite daughters-in-law, to do what was the most reasonable: return to their families. They could then marry men of the land and have a chance to have families. Orpah reluctantly agreed, yet Ruth showed her determination to stay with Naomi. Although she was a Gentile, Ruth was committed to Naomi’s people and their God.

Ruth chose to stay with Naomi and live with her people in a foreign land. Although she gave up the chance to live the life she knew, she took the blessing to be part of God’s people. It may not have been obvious at that time, but Ruth’s kind heart and act of commitment were blessed, and she was used preciously in God’s salvation plan. (Mt 1:5)
Application: Father, it is so precious to be called your child. When I make choices, please help me to make you my priority.
One Word: Ruth decided to go with Naomi