Ruth Chooses To Stay With Naomi Craft
Introduction
The story of Ruth and Naomi is a tale of loyalty, love, and devotion that has inspired people for centuries. It is a story that shows the power of faith and the resilience of the human spirit. The story takes place during a time of great upheaval in Israel, when famine and war were rampant. Naomi, a Jewish woman, and her family were forced to leave their homeland and seek refuge in a foreign land, Moab.
The Bond Between Ruth and Naomi
Naomi's husband died, and her two sons married Moabite women, Ruth and Orpah. Tragically, both of Naomi's sons died, leaving Naomi, Ruth, and Orpah as widows. Naomi decided to return to Israel, and she urged her daughters-in-law to return to their families. Orpah decided to leave, but Ruth chose to stay with Naomi, saying, "Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God."
The Journey Home
Ruth and Naomi began their journey back to Israel, and along the way, Ruth showed incredible kindness and loyalty to Naomi. She worked hard to provide for them, gleaning in the fields to gather leftover grain. Ruth's hard work and loyalty did not go unnoticed, and she caught the eye of a wealthy landowner named Boaz.
The Meeting with Boaz
Naomi recognized Boaz as a kinsman, and she encouraged Ruth to seek his protection and favor. Ruth followed Naomi's advice and approached Boaz, asking him to take her under his protection. Boaz was impressed with Ruth's loyalty and kindness and agreed to help her. He allowed her to glean in his fields and even provided her with extra grain.
The Harvest Festival
During the harvest season, Boaz held a feast for his workers, and he invited Ruth to join them. Ruth's appearance at the feast caused quite a stir, and Boaz made it clear to Ruth and the other workers that he was interested in her. Naomi saw this as a sign that Boaz was the answer to their prayers, and she urged Ruth to approach Boaz and ask him to marry her.
The Proposal
Ruth followed Naomi's advice and approached Boaz. She asked him to marry her and to take her as his wife. Boaz was delighted and agreed to marry her. He recognized her loyalty and devotion and knew that she would be a wonderful wife.
The Marriage
Boaz and Ruth were married, and they had a son named Obed. Obed became the father of Jesse, who was the father of David, the great king of Israel. Ruth's loyalty and devotion to Naomi had led her to a new life and a new family. Her faith and courage had inspired people for generations.
Conclusion
The story of Ruth and Naomi is a powerful reminder of the importance of loyalty, devotion, and faith. It shows us that even in the darkest of times, there is hope and that our actions can have a profound impact on those around us. Ruth's decision to stay with Naomi and her unwavering loyalty and kindness set her on a path that led to a new family, a new life, and a legacy that has lasted for centuries.