A Journey of Love and Loyalty: Ruth 1:7-19

This passage in the book of Ruth is like a crossroads in a story. Naomi, a woman who’s faced a lot of loss, is deciding to go back home. But this isn’t just about her; it’s about two other women, Ruth and Orpah, who are deeply connected to her.

Verse 7: Naomi sets out on her journey back to Bethlehem, and her daughters-in-law, Ruth and Orpah, go with her. This shows us that they care for Naomi and don’t want her to be alone.

Verses 8-9: Naomi, out of love, tells her daughters-in-law to go back to their own families. She blesses them and wishes them well. This is a tough moment because Naomi knows it might be the last time she sees them.

Verses 10-13: Ruth and Orpah are heartbroken. They don’t want to leave Naomi. They express their deep love for her.

Verse 14: Orpah kisses Naomi goodbye and goes back home. This is a realistic moment. Orpah has to think about her own future and what’s best for her.

Verses 15-18: Ruth refuses to leave Naomi. This is a powerful declaration of loyalty and love. Ruth is willing to leave her own home, her family, and everything she knows to stay with Naomi.

Verse 19: The two women continue their journey together. This shows us that Ruth’s commitment is unwavering.

Study Questions

1. Loyalty: What does loyalty mean to you? How does Ruth show loyalty to Naomi?
2. Tough Choices: Orpah and Ruth face a difficult decision. Have you ever had to make a tough choice? How did you decide what to do?
3. Love vs. Logic: Naomi wants what’s best for her daughters-in-law, even if it means letting them go. How does this show love?
4. Faith: Ruth mentions following Naomi’s God. What do you think faith means in this situation? How does it affect Ruth’s choices?
5. Family: Family doesn’t always mean blood relatives. How does this story show us that family can be found in unexpected places?

Bonus Question: If you were in Ruth’s shoes, what would you have done? Why?

This story in the book of Ruth is not just ancient history. It’s a story about love, loyalty, tough choices, and the importance of family. These are things we all deal with in our own lives.