Women of the Bible: Ruth

God has so much to say about our identity as women. Although women are not mentioned as much in the bible -- the ones that are mentioned are women we can learn some of the greatest truths about our design from.

One of my favorites is Ruth.  

In Ruth’s story we see a lot of loss and a lot of hardship.  Yet this faithful woman remains loyal to her mother-in-law even though it means a life of poverty, and hard work to provide in what meager ways she can for the both of them.

"For where you go I'll go, where you stay I'll stay." --Ruth 1:16

We watch Ruth working long days in the local fields gleaning for what little she can to bring home to her and Naomi. Though probably a swampy mess – pitted out, dirty, and tired – Ruth catches someone’s eye. Boaz a man of power and providence sees Ruth from a far, and when he asks about her… her reputation precedes her. This is the woman who took care of Naomi even when she didn’t have to.

"All that you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband has been fully told to me..." -- Ruth 2:11

Boaz seeks out Ruth, and gives her more than she could ask – protection, stability, and enough food and water for both her and Naomi. Ruth’s immediate response is one of sheer humility and gratitude.

"she fell on her face, bowing to the ground, and said to him, "Why have I found favor in your eyes, that you should take notice of me, since I am a foreigner?" -- Ruth 2:10

Running home, Ruth tells Naomi the good news and what they could easily chalk up to coincidence, they instead immediately recognize the Lord’s hand in their blessings. This is followed by careful instruction from Naomi, obedience from Ruth, and we soon see the story of brokenness and loss turn to a story of redemption and provision.

So what does Ruth’s story tell us about being a godly woman?

Where Ruth could have chosen selfishness, she chose to serve and love Naomi well.

Where Ruth could have wallowed in her loss, she leaned on the Lord and actively sought his provision.

Where Ruth could have hardened her heart with pride and entitlement, she maintains a posture of humility and gratitude.

The Christ-like character of Boaz is not immediately taken by the external beauty of Ruth, but his affections for her are fostered by her character.

“but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God's sight is very precious.” – 1 Peter 3:4

We learn from Ruth that godly women are loyal, hard-working, humble, spoken well of, grateful, and obedient.

We learn the value of faithfulness, and absolute trust in the Lord even amidst the worst of circumstances. Within Ruth’s hardship we watch God redeem her story, and He is magnificently glorified in it.

We see what the fruit of a woman who has God actively working within her heart looks like, and what beauty and goodness that brings to the people around her.

Ruth entrusts the Lord with everything amidst the unknown, even though it is difficult. She finds her strength in her God, and what we find is that God is faithful.

Sisters, It is easy for us to beat ourselves up when we do not look like Ruth, but please do not be discouraged. Instead be encouraged to seek Jesus in all that you do. Know that your worth and value is already set by Christ, and in His eyes you are prized, cherished, and delighted in. Set your sights on the work that God is capable of doing within your own heart, and know that his grace covers you where you fall short. Hold fast to the truths of the gospel, and allow it to be a guide on your journey to biblical womanhood.

May Ruth be a story of hope for our hearts, an inspiration to seek our savior through the thick of the most painful parts of our stories and a reminder of the redeeming power and greatness of our God.