Podcasts about Moabite

What does greatness look like in the kingdom of God? It may not look dramatic, impressive, or worthy of attention. Often, it looks like ordinary faithfulness, serving others, keeping your commitments, and trusting God when you cannot see what He is doing.In this message from the Book of Ruth, Pastor Erik explores how God works through ordinary people and everyday acts of faithfulness to accomplish something far greater than they could imagine. Ruth's story begins with famine, loss, grief, and uncertainty. Naomi returns home feeling bitter and empty, while Ruth leaves behind everything familiar to remain faithful to her mother-in-law and to the God of Israel.Through Ruth's quiet devotion, Boaz's generosity, and the birth of Obed, God begins writing a story of redemption that reaches far beyond their immediate circumstances. Ruth, a widowed Moabite woman who seemed insignificant by the world's standards, ultimately becomes part of the family line of King David and Jesus Christ.This story reminds us to trust the God of the ordinary, trust Him during seasons of crisis, and trust the God who redeems. Even when He appears to be working behind the scenes, God is present, faithful, and weaving our ordinary obedience into His greater story. Jesus is the ultimate Redeemer who makes the insignificant significant, the hopeless hopeful, the lost found, the bitter pleasant, and the empty full again.

The final chapter of Ruth brings us from the edge of a cliffhanger to a beautiful resolution that reveals God's sovereign hand in the smallest details of our lives. We witness Boaz navigating the legal complexities of redemption with integrity and strategic wisdom, setting up a public court at the city gate where the entire community becomes witnesses to this transformative moment. What unfolds is a masterclass in faithful love, as Boaz willingly takes on the cost of redeeming both the land and Ruth, while another relative counts the cost and walks away. This mirrors our ultimate Redeemer, Jesus Christ, who counted the cost of our redemption and willingly paid it with His own life. The sandal exchange, a strange ancient custom that made the transaction memorable and binding, points us to the Holy Spirit, the down payment we receive when Christ redeems us. What began in famine, death, and emptiness ends in fullness, hope, and the birth of Obed, who would become the grandfather of King David and an ancestor of Jesus Himself. This reminds us that our faithful obedience in small, seemingly mundane moments is woven into God's grand narrative of redemption. We may never know the full impact of our loyal love toward God and others until eternity, but we can trust that God is orchestrating something far beyond what we can imagine.ChaptersChapter 1: Setting the Scene at the City Gate0:00 - 9:58We discover how Boaz strategically positions himself at the city gate to legally resolve Ruth and Naomi's redemption before the town elders and witnesses.Chapter 2: The Transfer of Redemption Rights9:58 - 21:30We witness the symbolic sandal exchange that legally transfers redemption rights from the unwilling relative to Boaz, who joyfully commits to redeem both the land and Ruth.Chapter 3: Blessing and Acceptance of the Outsider21:30 - 35:00We see the remarkable transformation as the entire community blesses Boaz and Ruth, elevating a Moabite woman to the same status as the founding mothers of Israel.Chapter 4: God's Sovereign Hand and the Birth of Obed35:00 - 45:12We celebrate God's direct intervention in granting Ruth conception, bringing fullness and restoration to Naomi's life and establishing the lineage leading to King David.Chapter 5: Our Place in God's Grand Story of Redemption45:12 - 50:08We are challenged to recognize that our faithful obedience in small things weaves our lives into God's grand narrative of redemption, just as Ruth and Boaz's story led to Jesus.

Daily Dose of Hope July 17, 2026   Scripture:  2 Kings 13   Prayer: Lord, We thank you that you are a God of miracles. For the people reading this devotional today, I'm sure that many of them need a miracle of some kind. Give them the courage to ask and the faith to believe that you can do anything. You are all-powerful and totally good. We need you, Lord, and we need your healing power in our lives. May it be so. In Your Name, Amen   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope daily Bible reading plan.  We have been working our way through both 1 & 2 Kings this summer and today's reading was 2 Kings 13, smack dab in the middle of the book.  In this chapter, we are back to the Northern Kingdom.  There is a lot of king drama here.  Over and over again, the kings do evil in the eyes of the Lord.  Truly, it's amazing God didn't just strike them down right there.  But he continued to show grace in so many ways.  The kings and people would worship others gods and do deplorable things in the eyes of the Lord.  But God had compassion on them because of his covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.  It was because of the faithfulness of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob that God did not destroy all the people.  Because he certainly could have.    So, I started thinking about this.  Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob were far from perfect people.  They were broken, just like us, but they also did their best to stay true to the Lord.  They stayed faithful.  Maybe this sounds strange, but this gave me a lot of encouragement.  We are all sinful, we all mess up, but our desire to remain faithful to God does not go unnoticed.  What difference will our faithfulness have on future generations?  How will God have compassion on future generations because we tried, in our own flawed way, to stay true to Him?  How will our spiritual legacy make a difference?  It's worth spending some time thinking about.    This chapter also discusses the death of Elisha.  This is so fascinating – yes, he has physically died but not even death stops his ministry. His prophecy about Syria obviously plays out but he is still actually doing miracles. When a group of Israelites were burying a corpse, they are interrupted by a group of Moabite raiders. Hastily, they throw the corpse into Elisha's grave, presumably on top of his bones. The dead man is revived. Elisha has continued to give life to Israel, even after death.   More king drama on Monday.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

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Turning | Ruth 1   Overview   Life rarely unfolds the way we imagined it would. Childhood dreams often collide with unexpected loss, disappointment, broken relationships, illness, and grief. In this message, Liz walks through Ruth chapter 1, showing that every person eventually arrives at a crossroads where they must decide what direction they will take. Will they turn away from God? Return to Him while remaining bitter? Or fully turn toward Him in faith? The opening chapter of Ruth is filled with tragedy, but it also introduces the first rays of hope. Liz reminds us that God is often working long before we can see it. Even in our deepest pain, He is preparing redemption. While suffering is real, it is never the end of the story for those who trust Him. Christ is the ultimate fulfillment of the hope first hinted at in Ruth's journey. Introduction: When Life Doesn't Turn Out the Way We Planned Liz begins by reflecting on the excitement of leaving home after high school and the dreams she carried into adulthood. Like many people, some dreams came true while many unfolded very differently than she expected. She invites everyone to think about their own lives: What dreams did you have? Which ones became reality? Which ones never happened? Are there moments you wish you had made different decisions? Those questions prepare us to enter Ruth chapter 1. Naomi had what most people would consider the ideal life: Living in God's Promised Land A husband Two sons Security A future Then famine came. Instead of trusting God in the Promised Land, Naomi's family fled to Moab—a place associated with Israel's enemies. What began as a search for survival became a journey into devastating loss. One by one Naomi lost: Her husband Both of her sons Her security Her future Her hope Liz paints Naomi's grief vividly, helping listeners feel the crushing weight of losing nearly everything she loved. She challenges listeners to consider how closely Naomi's story resembles many of our own lives. While our losses may look different, everyone eventually experiences broken dreams, unanswered prayers, painful relationships, sickness, discouragement, or grief that leaves us wondering where God is. The central question of the chapter becomes: When life falls apart, what direction will you turn? 1. Godly Grief Liz explains that Naomi and Orpah both experienced unimaginable pain, but neither initially responded by grieving with God. Naomi returned to Bethlehem physically, but emotionally she remained trapped in bitterness. She even rejected her own name ("Naomi," meaning pleasant) and asked to be called "Mara," meaning bitter. Rather than seeing grief as something to avoid, Liz teaches that grief itself is holy when it is brought before God. God never asks His people to pretend they aren't hurting. Instead, Scripture repeatedly shows God's people lamenting. David filled the Psalms with tears. Jesus Himself wept at Lazarus' tomb. Our grief becomes holy when we allow it to draw us closer to the heart of God instead of further away. Liz shares her own story of years of severe back pain while serving as missionaries in Hungary. Endless doctor visits and chronic suffering left her repeatedly asking, "Why, God?" She explains that pain naturally tempts us toward bitterness because pain makes us forget two important truths: God sees us. God wants to sit with us in our suffering. Bitterness grows when we refuse to mourn honestly before God. Godly grief, however, allows us to mourn what God mourns—the brokenness of a fallen world and the separation sin has created. Instead of accusing God, we are invited to cry with Him. Instead of hiding our pain, we are invited to bring it before Him. God does not reject grieving people. He welcomes them. Bible Verses Ruth 1:20–21 Hebrews 4:15–16 Psalms (David's laments) John 11 (Jesus weeping at Lazarus' tomb) Key Quotes "There is a holiness to weeping." "When we weep, we join God in mourning things that are not the way they are supposed to be." "Instead of bitterness, choose godly grief." "Take your discouragement and disappointment to the Lord." 2. Choose the God Choosing You Liz contrasts the three women in Ruth 1. Orpah turns back. Naomi returns physically but remains bitter. Ruth turns fully toward God. Ruth had every earthly reason to go back. She was a Moabite. She worshipped false gods. She had no promise of security in Israel. She had no guarantee of acceptance. Yet she chose faith over familiarity. Liz shares her testimony about attending a Christian camp after losing her grandmother. She remembers watching a pastor lovingly embrace two young girls, and something awakened inside her heart. She realized she longed for a Father who delighted in her. That moment helped her understand that God had been pursuing her all along. In the same way, Ruth was not simply choosing God. God had already been drawing Ruth toward Himself. Liz encourages listeners to recognize this same truth. God is not waiting reluctantly for us to come. He is already pursuing us with love. Every person eventually stands where Ruth stood: Will we return to what is familiar but lifeless? Or will we trust the God who is calling us into new life? Faith often means stepping into an unknown future because we trust the One leading us. Bible Verses Ruth 1:15–17 Key Quotes "Ruth chose the God who was choosing her." "She turned to the God who had turned toward her." "There is a God choosing you—and you can choose Him too." 3. Choose to Cling to the King Who Knows Your Pain Ruth not only turned toward God. She clung to Him. Liz explains that Jesus understands suffering better than anyone. He experienced: Rejection Loneliness Betrayal Physical pain Grief Abandonment Because Jesus entered human suffering Himself, Christians never suffer alone. Liz points to Isaiah 53, describing Jesus as the "Man of Sorrows." She also shares the story of missionary Elisabeth Elliot, whose husband Jim Elliot was murdered while taking the Gospel to an unreached people group. Rather than responding with hatred, Elisabeth eventually returned to those same people to tell them about Jesus. Liz shares Elisabeth Elliot's powerful words: "Out of the deepest pain has come the strongest conviction of the presence of God and the love of God." That is the invitation of the Gospel. We are not invited to ignore pain. We are invited to cling to the Savior who understands it completely. Rather than carrying grief alone, we lean into Christ's presence. We discover that He does not merely watch our suffering. He enters it with us. Bible Verses Isaiah 53 Key Quotes "We are loved by the God who knows pain." "When pain hurts too much to bear, turn to the cross." "We don't mourn alone—but with One who understands." Conclusion: The Barley Harvest Was Beginning Although Ruth chapter 1 begins in famine, death, and sorrow, it ends with an unexpected sentence: Naomi and Ruth arrived in Bethlehem "as the barley harvest was beginning." What looked like a simple travel detail becomes a powerful picture of hope. While Naomi believed her life was over, God had already been preparing her future. Months before she arrived: Fields had already been plowed. Seeds had already been planted. Rain had already fallen. Harvest was already growing. God had been working long before Naomi could see it. Liz reminds listeners that the story doesn't end with Ruth chapter 1. Eventually: Ruth marries Boaz. Naomi's family line is restored. A child is born. That family line ultimately leads to Jesus Christ. God used Naomi's pain to prepare the coming of the Savior. Likewise, God uses Christ's suffering to bring salvation to the world. The promise for believers is not that life will always end happily here on earth. The promise is even greater. Jesus is our ultimate hope. One day He will bring us into the true Promised Land where there will be: No more sorrow No more pain No more death Life in abundance forever Until then, we continue to turn toward Him, grieve with Him, and cling to the King who understands our pain. Discipleship Group Questions Naomi, Orpah, and Ruth each responded differently to suffering. Which of their responses do you most identify with, and why? Liz described the difference between bitterness and godly grief. What does it practically look like to grieve with God instead of becoming bitter? Ruth chose to trust God even though she could not see what lay ahead. Where is God asking you to trust Him despite uncertainty? Isaiah 53 reminds us that Jesus is "a man of suffering, familiar with pain." How does knowing that Jesus understands your pain change the way you approach Him during difficult seasons? The chapter ends with the barley harvest beginning—a picture that God had already been preparing hope before Naomi could see it. Can you think of a time when you later recognized that God was working behind the scenes during one of your hardest seasons?

Returning HomeRuth 1Teacher: Pastor Tommy BaileyDate: July 5, 2026The book of Ruth is a quiet story tucked between the tumultuous period of the Judges and the rise of Israel's kings. In the first chapter of Ruth, a famine drives a small family from Bethlehem, the house of bread, into Moab, a pagan land far from the presence and promises of God. There, in a country that was never home, Naomi loses her husband and both of her sons, and is left with her grief, two widowed daughters-in-law, and a longing to return home.Join Pastor Tommy as we open Ruth 1 and follow Naomi and Ruth on the road back to Bethlehem. In her season of loss, Naomi hears that God has visited his people, and she sets her face toward home. Ruth, a Moabite who had every reason to stay behind, clings to Naomi: “Your people shall be my people, and your God my God.” Underneath all the sorrow and lament, God is quietly at work, moving toward this grieving family with a steadfast, covenant love that will not let go, making a way for the weary and the wandering to come home.Support the showTo find more resources like these, follow us:Website: https://thevillagechapel.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQVTzDbaiXVUAm_mUBDCTJAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/tvcnashville/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tvcnashvilleX: https://twitter.com/tvcnashvilleTo support the ongoing mission of The Village Chapel go to https://thevillagechapel.com/give/. If you are a regular giver, thank you for your continued faithfulness and generosity!

We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes. Judges 21:25 NKJV Ruth 1:1-4 CSB Ruth 1:8-10 NLTGod's Kingdom doesn't allow for divided allegiance. It's not "this and that"; it's "this or that."Ruth replied, “Don't ask me to leave you and turn back. Wherever you go, I will go; wherever you live, I will live. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God. Wherever you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. May the LORD punish me severely if I allow anything but death to separate us!” When Naomi saw that Ruth was determined to go with her, she said nothing more. Ruth 1:16-18 NLTGod's greatest blessings begin with the courageous decision to follow Him, no matter the cost or outcome. - (Josh)So Naomi returned from Moab, accompanied by her daughter-in-law Ruth, the young Moabite woman. They arrived in Bethlehem in late spring, at the beginning of the barley harvest. Ruth 1:21 NLTSo Ruth went out to gather grain behind the harvesters. And as it happened, she found herself working in a field that belonged to Boaz, the relative of her father-in-law, Elimelech. Ruth 2:3 NLTBoaz went over and said to Ruth, “Listen, my daughter. Stay right here with us when you gather grain; don't go to any other fields. Stay right behind the young women working in my field. See which part of the field they are harvesting, and then follow them. I have warned the young men not to treat you roughly. And when you are thirsty, help yourself to the water they have drawn from the well.” Ruth fell at his feet and thanked him warmly. “What have I done to deserve such kindness?” she asked. “I am only a foreigner.”“Yes, I know,” Boaz replied. “But I also know about everything you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband. I have heard how you left your father and mother and your own land to live here among complete strangers. May the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge, reward you fully for what you have done.” Ruth 2:8-12 NLTAt mealtime Boaz called to her, “Come over here, and help yourself to some food. You can dip your bread in the sour wine.” So she sat with his harvesters, and Boaz gave her some roasted grain to eat. She ate all she wanted and still had some left over. When Ruth went back to work again, Boaz ordered his young men, “Let her gather grain right among the sheaves without stopping her. And pull out some heads of barley from the bundles and drop them on purpose for her. Let her pick them up, and don't give her a hard time!” Ruth 2:14-16 NLTSpiritual poverty always finds miraculous provision when it meets the matchless love of Jesus, our Redeemer!So Ruth worked alongside the women in Boaz's fields and gathered grain with them until the end of the barley harvest. Then she continued working with them through the wheat harvest in early summer. And all the while she lived with her mother-in-law. Ruth 2:21-23 NLTThen Ruth came quietly, uncovered his feet, and lay down. Around midnight Boaz suddenly woke up and turned over. He was surprised to find a woman lying at his feet! “Who are you?” he asked. “I am your servant Ruth,” she replied. “Spread the corner of your covering over me, for you are my family redeemer.” “The LORD bless you, my daughter!” Boaz exclaimed. “You are showing even more family loyalty now than you did before, for you have not gone after a younger man, whether rich or poor. Now don't worry about a thing, my daughter. I will do what is necessary, for everyone in town knows you are a virtuous woman. Ruth 3:8-12 NLTEvery act of trust and surrender opens a door to deeper places of beauty in relationship with Jesus. Now in those days it was the custom in Israel for anyone transferring a right of purchase to remove his sandal and hand it to the other party. This publicly validated the transaction. So the other family redeemer drew off his sandal as he said to Boaz, “You buy the land.” Then Boaz said to the elders and to the crowd standing around, “You are witnesses that today I have bought from Naomi all the property of Elimelech, Kilion, and Mahlon. And with the land I have acquired Ruth, the Moabite widow of Mahlon, to be my wife. Ruth 4:7-10 NLTSalmon was the father of Boaz (whose mother was Rahab). Boaz was the father of Obed (whose mother was Ruth). Obed was the father of Jesse. Jesse was the father of King David. Matthew 1:5-6 NLT-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church

Daily Dose of Hope July 3, 2026   Scripture: 2 Kings 3   Prayer:  Holy God, We come before you today in humility and awe.  You are a good God.  You, who put the stars and planets in motion, also created us.  You care about the most minute details of our lives.  You have numbered the hairs on our head.  Thank you for loving us.  Thank you for caring so much.  Help us be put even a small reflection of your love toward those around us.  More of you and less of me, Jesus.  Amen.   Welcome to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope daily Bible reading plan.  This summer, we are working our way through 1 & 2 Kings.  Today's reading is 2 Kings 3 and we will have our weekly discussion with Emmy Roberts, youth and next gen lead for New Hope.   While Elisha had clearly taken the place of Elijah in serving as the Lord's prophet to Israel, he had yet to prove himself.  We see God speak clearly and powerfully through Elisha.  There is a fair amount of drama in this chapter.  It begins by introducing Joram, Ahab's son, who succeeded him as king of Israel and while not as wicked as Ahab, Joram was still a sinful king.    Then, the narrative focuses on an issue with Moab, which has decided to no longer pay tribute (in the form of sheep) to Israel.  This angers Joram so he partners with Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, to squash the Moabite rebellion.  But their joint armies soon run out of water and food.  In order to figure out what's going on, Jehoshaphat asks for a prophet of the Lord to shed light on the situation.  This is when Elisha is called in.  It's clear that Elisha has significant animosity toward Joram.  He knows he is a sinful king who does not honor the Lord and he really doesn't want to offer his advice.  The presence of Jehoshaphat, a man of God, calms him down and he finally agrees to offer prophecy.   God speaks powerfully through Elisha, saying that he will fill the land with pools of water so they can all drink.  That is exactly what happens.  Water fills the land by morning time.  In an interesting twist, the Moabites see the sun hit the water and believe that the pools are filled with blood, thinking the armies of Israel and Judah have slaughtered each other.  So the Moabites are caught off guard when the two armies (Israel and Judah) rise up and fight. Moab is defeated.   Probably the most distressing aspect of the chapter is the last portion of text.  In a desperate attempt to win, the Moabite king sacrifices his first-born son on the city wall, thinking it may appease the false god Chemosh.  Of course, the Israelites are outraged at the sight.    Evil comes in all forms.  From Joram to the Moabite king, evil is present in our world. From my human perspective, I often wish God would just swoop down and just eliminate all the evil in the world so that suffering and pain could be banished for good.  I mean, God is all-powerful.  But that isn't the way God operates.  Plus, the reality is that we are all a complex mix of good and evil.  It's important for me to remember that God dealt with evil through the quiet strength of the cross.  And we trust that he is still dealing with evil in ways that we can't see or understand.  Eventually, we know that Jesus will return and deal with evil for good.  Until then, we seek to be light in a dark world. Now, listen to the podcast for our going deeper discussion with Emmy. Blessings, Pastor Vicki

In this Bible Story, we learn about the three kings battling against the Moabite rebellion. God honors Israel solely because they aligned themselves with Judah who remained faithful. This story is inspired by 2 King 3. Go to https://www.BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is 2 Kings 3:16 from the King James Version.Episode 130: As the prophet Elisha was teaching in the towns of Israel, and caring for the people, he experienced miracle after miracle. God used him to help oversee the freeing of a widow and her sons, and the healing of a poisoned stew. And the miracles continued with the feeding of 100 men with only 20 loaves of bread, and the miraculous recovery of a sunken axe head. Each of these events showed how God cares about the everyday life and struggles of his people. Something you and I can take comfort in even today.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd Haberkorn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Book of Ruth offers us a refreshing oasis after the spiritual drought of Judges, painting a vivid portrait of redemption that echoes throughout all of Scripture. Set during the tumultuous period of the Judges around 1200-1500 BC, this beautiful narrative introduces us to unlikely heroes whose story foreshadows the ultimate Redeemer, Jesus Christ. At its heart, Ruth explores what it means to be redeemed—bought back from slavery to sin and death through a price we could never pay ourselves. Just as we might redeem a coupon at a store or reclaim a pawned possession by paying its price, Jesus entered the pawn shop of sin and death, found us on the dusty shelf, and paid for our freedom with His own blood. The story begins with tragedy: Elimelech's family leaves Bethlehem (the 'House of Bread') during famine, seeking security in pagan Moab rather than trusting God's provision. This decision leads to devastating loss—Elimelech dies, his sons marry Moabite women and then die, leaving three vulnerable widows with no means of support. Yet even in this darkness, God is already working. Ruth's declaration to Naomi—'Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God'—reveals a heart transformed by faith. As the women return to Bethlehem at the beginning of barley harvest, they stand empty-handed but unknowingly on the threshold of divine provision. Boaz, whose own mother was Rahab the redeemed prostitute, awaits in the fields as a picture of Christ our Kinsman-Redeemer. This story reminds us that we all have our 'Moab moments'—times when we've walked away from God's provision, thinking we knew better, only to find ourselves spiritually bankrupt. Yet the good news thunders through these ancient pages: Jesus has already paid our ransom, transferred our ownership from death to life, and welcomed us into His eternal family.ChaptersChapter 1: Understanding Redemption Through Ruth0:00 - 5:51We are introduced to the book of Ruth, set during the time of the judges, and explore the central theme of redemption that runs throughout Scripture.Chapter 2: Famine and the Flight to Moab5:51 - 16:44We examine how Elimelech's family left Bethlehem during famine, seeking provision in Moab instead of trusting God, which led to tragedy and loss.Chapter 3: Ruth's Radical Commitment16:44 - 25:54We witness Ruth's beautiful declaration of loyalty to Naomi and her God, choosing to return to Bethlehem despite having no security or prospects.Chapter 4: Empty Return and the Redeemer's Promise25:54 - 38:16We see Naomi return to Bethlehem feeling bitter and empty, not yet knowing that God has already prepared Boaz as a redeemer in the very fields where Ruth will glean.Chapter 5: Living as the Redeemed38:16 - 41:10We are challenged to live with the constant awareness that we belong to God, having been redeemed by Christ's blood, and to purpose in our hearts to walk as His owned possession.

Come Bible Study WITH ME through Numbers 25 and ask all the questions!

First, we read today of the climax to the life of Naomi and her Moabite daughter-in-law Ruth, an example of how tragedy can turn out, in the end, to be a blessing and become one of the building blocks, as it were, as part of God's overall plan and purpose – and so Ruth became the great grandmother of David.  God oversees human life and, “for those who love God all things work together for good” [Romans 8 v.28];  essentially this is for the good of his purpose.In our Isaiah reading we see how the Almighty stresses he is the originator of all that exists – and has an ultimate purpose in view. “I am the LORD and there is no other.  I form the light and create darkness, I make well-being and create calamity.  I am the LORD who does all these things.” [45 v.6,7]  We also noted that he says, “it was my hands that stretched out the heavens” [v.12] and nearly all scientists are now agreed that everything spread out, apparently to infinity, from a big bang! But most think it was by ‘chance'!We noted in particular v.15, “Truly you are a God who hides yourself”  We have to apply our minds to realize there must be a Creator, an utterly incredible designer.  The efforts over the last 150 years to prove beyond doubt that Darwinian evolution is true – have ended in dismal failure – although not all are honest enough to admit this – but a surprising number are. The question in v.9 is so interesting, so appropriate for God to ask – “Woe to him (or her) who strives with him who formed him, a pot among earthen pots!  Does the clay say to him who forms it, ‘What are you making?' or ‘Your work has no handles'? “ We know that God's work has “handles” – we mentally grasp them the more diligently we read the Bible!  How good is your grasp?  We all need to work at getting a really firm grip on the true meaning of life – and then to feel inspired by our heart-felt awareness of what God is making – and the utterly awesome wonders to come when his work is complete, described to us, largely in symbolic language, as we read on in the book of Revelation. 

This powerful message invites us to reflect on the transformative power of spiritual friendships through the lens of both Scripture and contemporary storytelling. At its heart lies the beautiful Old Testament story of Ruth and Naomi, two women from vastly different backgrounds who chose covenant love over convenience. Ruth, a Moabite, makes the radical decision to stay with her Israelite mother-in-law Naomi despite having every reason to return to her own people. Her famous declaration, 'Where you go, I will go, and where you stay, I will stay,' becomes a timeless example of commitment that transcends cultural boundaries and personal preference. The message draws a compelling parallel to the musical Wicked, exploring how Elphaba and Glinda's unlikely friendship mirrors the Ruth and Naomi story. Both relationships demonstrate that the people who truly transform us are often those most different from us. We're challenged to consider who has shaped our faith journey and encouraged us through difficult seasons. More importantly, we're called to become that kind of friend for others, recognizing that our spiritual friendships create ripple effects we may never fully see. The message reminds us that God often answers our prayers not by removing our pain, but by providing someone to walk through it with us. These covenant relationships require us to show up, remain faithful, and never walk away from the table, no matter how challenging the journey becomes.

We delve into the story of Balaam's wicked advice and the severe consequences of Israel's disobedience. We discuss how Balaam, a pagan prophet, devised a plan to seduce the Israelites into idolatry through Moabite and Midianite women, leading to God's wrath. The episode highlights the zealous actions of Phinehas, Aaron's grandson, who intervened to stop the plague that God had sent as punishment. God responded to Phinehas's decisive actions by granting him a covenant of perpetual priesthood.Support the showRead along with us in the Bible Brief App! Try the Bible Brief book for an offline experience!Get your free Bible Timeline with the 10 Steps: Timeline LinkSupport the show: Tap here to become a monthly supporter!Review the show: Tap here!Want to go deeper?...Download the Bible Brief App!iPhone: App Store LinkAndroid: Play Store LinkWant a physical book? Check out "Bible Brief" by our founder!Amazon: Amazon LinkWebsite: biblebrief.orgInstagram: @realbiblebriefX: @biblebriefFacebook: @realbiblebriefEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.orgWant to learn the Bible languages (Greek & Hebrew)? Check out our partner Biblingo (and use our link/code for a discount!): https://biblin...

On that day they read in the book of Moses in the audience of the people; and therein was found written, that the Ammonite and the Moabite should not come into the congregation of God for ever;2 Because they met not the children of Israel with bread and with water, but hired Balaam against them, that he should curse them: howbeit our God turned the curse into a blessing.3 Now it came to pass, when they had heard the law, that they separated from Israel all the mixed multitude.4 And before this, Eliashib the priest, having the oversight of the chamber of the house of our God, was allied unto Tobiah:5 And he had prepared for him a great chamber, where aforetime they laid the meat offerings, the frankincense, and the vessels, and the tithes of the corn, the new wine, and the oil, which was commanded to be given to the Levites, and the singers, and the porters; and the offerings of the priests.6 But in all this time was not I at Jerusalem: for in the two and thirtieth year of Artaxerxes king of Babylon came I unto the king, and after certain days obtained I leave of the king:7 And I came to Jerusalem, and understood of the evil that Eliashib did for Tobiah, in preparing him a chamber in the courts of the house of God.8 And it grieved me sore: therefore I cast forth all the household stuff to Tobiah out of the chamber.9 Then I commanded, and they cleansed the chambers: and thither brought I again the vessels of the house of God, with the meat offering and the frankincense.10 And I perceived that the portions of the Levites had not been given them: for the Levites and the singers, that did the work, were fled every one to his field.11 Then contended I with the rulers, and said, Why is the house of God forsaken? And I gathered them together, and set them in their place.12 Then brought all Judah the tithe of the corn and the new wine and the oil unto the treasuries.13 And I made treasurers over the treasuries, Shelemiah the priest, and Zadok the scribe, and of the Levites, Pedaiah: and next to them was Hanan the son of Zaccur, the son of Mattaniah: for they were counted faithful, and their office was to distribute unto their brethren.14 Remember me, O my God, concerning this, and wipe not out my good deeds that I have done for the house of my God, and for the offices thereof.15 In those days saw I in Judah some treading wine presses on the sabbath, and bringing in sheaves, and lading asses; as also wine, grapes, and figs, and all manner of burdens, which they brought into Jerusalem on the sabbath day: and I testified against them in the day wherein they sold victuals.16 There dwelt men of Tyre also therein, which brought fish, and all manner of ware, and sold on the sabbath unto the children of Judah, and in Jerusalem.17 Then I contended with the nobles of Judah, and said unto them, What evil thing is this that ye do, and profane the sabbath day?18 Did not your fathers thus, and did not our God bring all this evil upon us, and upon this city? yet ye bring more wrath upon Israel by profaning the sabbath.19 And it came to pass, that when the gates of Jerusalem began to be dark before the sabbath, I commanded that the gates should be shut, and charged that they should not be opened till after the sabbath: and some of my servants set I at the gates, that there should no burden be brought in on the sabbath day.20 So the merchants and sellers of all kind of ware lodged without Jerusalem once or twice.21 Then I testified against them, and said unto them, Why lodge ye about the wall? if ye do so again, I will lay hands on you. From that time forth came they no more on the sabbath.22 And I commanded the Levites that they should cleanse themselves, and that they should come and keep the gates, to sanctify the sabbath day. Remember me, O my God, concerning this also, and spare me according to the greatness of thy mercy.23 In those days also saw I Jews that had married wives of Ashdod, of Ammon, and of Moab:24 And their children spake half in the speech of Ashdod, and could not speak in the Jews' language, but according to the language of each people.25 And I contended with them, and cursed them, and smote certain of them, and plucked off their hair, and made them swear by God, saying, Ye shall not give your daughters unto their sons, nor take their daughters unto your sons, or for yourselves.26 Did not Solomon king of Israel sin by these things? yet among many nations was there no king like him, who was beloved of his God, and God made him king over all Israel: nevertheless even him did outlandish women cause to sin.27 Shall we then hearken unto you to do all this great evil, to transgress against our God in marrying strange wives?28 And one of the sons of Joiada, the son of Eliashib the high priest, was son in law to Sanballat the Horonite: therefore I chased him from me.29 Remember them, O my God, because they have defiled the priesthood, and the covenant of the priesthood, and of the Levites.30 Thus cleansed I them from all strangers, and appointed the wards of the priests and the Levites, every one in his business;31 And for the wood offering, at times appointed, and for the firstfruits. Remember me, O my God, for good.

Looking at three examples in the Bible of people who abandoned their previous group identity to join God's family, we see a pattern to emulate. Rather than thinking of yourself as an American or a businessman or a student who goes to church, think of yourself as a child of God who is also an American or a businessman or a student. Joshua 2:1-21 Rahab took a huge risk protecting the Israelite spies. She had heard about Yahweh who had demonstrated his power in Egypt and she wanted in. Joshua 6:15-25 She abandoned her Canaanite group identity to become an Israelite herself. She and Salmon had a son called Boaz who became a man of integrity and compassion. Ruth 1:7-9, 18 Ruth responded to Naomi's immense suffering through a self-sacrificial act of loyalty. She abandoned her Moabite identity to care for her mother-in-law, taking on her religious beliefs and practices. Ruth 3:10-11 Rahab's son, Boaz, took note of Ruth's character and loyalty. He married her and their child was the grandfather of the great king David. Philippians 3:4-6 Paul was a man of religious fervor and zeal. As a Pharisee, he adhered to the strictest sect of Judaism. That was his identity. Acts 9:3-6 When Jesus presented himself to Paul it resulted in his sudden abandonment of his previous group. Henceforth he threw his lot in with the Christians, the very people he had been persecuting. Philippians 3:7-9 Rather than mourning the loss of his old group identity, Paul now considered all his previous accomplishments as trash in comparison to “the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus.” What is your group identity? Do you first think of yourself as a child of God, part of his family, or does your identity lay elsewhere?The post Transformation 2: The Kind of People We Are first appeared on Living Hope.

Join Fr. Assisi Saldanha, C.Ss.R., in this insightful episode of Who's Who in the Bible as he explores the fascinating and often misunderstood story of Ruth. Often labeled an outsider as a Moabite woman, Ruth defies expectations to become a central figure in the genealogy of King David and, ultimately, a link to Christ.In this session, Fr. Assisi delves into the theological depth of her journey—from her migration and unwavering loyalty to her role in the plan of salvation. Discover how God works through unconventional paths and what this ancient story teaches us about kindness, redemption, and inclusion today. Don't miss this inspiring reflection—watch the full video to deepen your prayer life and biblical understanding.

This lecture introduces the book of Ruth as a story that asks whether God's love can reach people in grief, displacement, and loss. It contrasts Ruth with a tragedy and notes that, very early in the narrative, the stage is emptied of men and the focus falls on three women.The speaker outlines the setting as the period of the judges, described as a time of rebellion, violence, and instability in Israel. Elimelech, Naomi, and their two sons leave Bethlehem because of famine and go to Moab, where Elimelech dies and later both sons also die after marrying Moabite women, Orpah and Ruth.The lecture emphasizes the depth of Naomi's loss: she is left in a foreign land without husband, sons, or grandchildren, after years of childlessness and waiting. The speaker highlights the biblical honesty of the story, which places suffering and blessing side by side without resolving the tension.A major theme is the Hebrew word chesed, translated as lovingkindness or steadfast love. Naomi uses this language to bless her daughters-in-law, and the speaker presents Ruth's loyalty as a striking example of clinging commitment, especially in a context where marriage and children were normally seen as a woman's security and future.Ruth's speech to Naomi is presented as one of the book's central moments: she pledges to stay with Naomi, adopt her people, and share her future and burial. Naomi returns to Bethlehem in bitterness, saying that the Lord has dealt harshly with her, and the speaker notes that Scripture often gives space to this kind of lament.The lecture closes by pointing forward to God's continued work through human relationships and to Jesus as the fullest expression of all-in love. It concludes with an invitation to bring prayer for oneself or for others who are in a Naomi-like season of loss.

EXODUS LESSON 73 PART 2 I strongly urge you to listen to Lesson 73 part 1 before listening to part 2.  You'll see how important it is to make sure you do this to get a better understanding of the questions and issues in these verses.  Here's the link for part 1 - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/exodus-73-part-1-exod-3210-18-god-cant-change-his-mind/ One major problem we'll deal with is the way the translators of the New American Standard Bible 1995 translated the Hebrew in Exod. 32:14 to come up with the phrase, “God changed His mind.”  In part 1 it is so clear that God does not change and never changes His mind.  This is a major issue and one wonders how this could've happened since again and again the very words of God show the truth that God does not change and never changes His mind.  Below check out the chart.  You'll see that the NASB is the only Bible version that uses the phrase “God changed His mind.” The King James (KJV) and the Amplified Bible (AMP) and the Jewish Publication Society (JPS) translations are probably the most accurate.  The Lord repented or turned away from one thing to turn to another.  Repent in Hebrew comes from the Hebrew verb LaShuv לָשׁוּב meaning to turn around or to go back.  The Strong's number H7725.  It is the verb that forms the Hebrew word for repentance of Teshuvah תְּשׁוּבָה.  It is not just connected to doing repentance from sin.  It could be one wants to give up smoking.  So one would turn from smoking and to turn to something else.  In other words one is doing Teshuvah תְּשׁוּבָה from smoking.  That is how the Bible uses the word and not just related to sin.  Thus, God is turning from one thing to do another.  I wrote an article on trying to get at this in a more understandable way.  Here's the article below. Does God change His mind? How can this be?  We have two verses that contradict each other.  Consider ... Exodus 32:14 So the LORD changed His mind about the harm which He said He would do to His people. (Exo 32:14) Malachi 3:6 "For I, the LORD, do not change; therefore you, O sons of Jacob, are not consumed." (Mal 3:6) Which is it? If God does not change then how did Moses have God change His mind and yet God says He will not.  This is not like God.  This is nuts.  I thought the Bible was in full agreement!!  Can this be explained?? Also, one reads in the very words of God that certain people will be restricted from the Assembly of God.  Deu 23:1-8  "No one who is emasculated or has his male organ cut off shall enter the assembly of the LORD.  (2)  "No one of illegitimate birth shall enter the assembly of the LORD; none of his descendants, even to the tenth generation, shall enter the assembly of the LORD.  (3)  "No Ammonite or Moabite shall enter the assembly of the LORD; none of their descendants, even to the tenth generation, shall ever enter the assembly of the LORD,  (4)  because they did not meet you with food and water on the way when you came out of Egypt, and because they hired against you Balaam the son of Beor from Pethor of Mesopotamia, to curse you.  (5)  "Nevertheless, the LORD your God was not willing to listen to Balaam, but the LORD your God turned the curse into a blessing for you because the LORD your God loves you.  (6)  "You shall never seek their peace or their prosperity all your days.  (7)  "You shall not detest an Edomite, for he is your brother; you shall not detest an Egyptian, because you were an alien in his land.  (8)  "The sons of the third generation who are born to them may enter the assembly of the LORD. It says that all Moabites are so restricted and yet Ruth gets in.  Why?  How?  (Listen to part 1 carefully regarding the Moabites.  No Moabite will be allowed in to the Assembly of Israel up to an including the 10th generation by God's own words.  Wait till you see how Ruth is probably of the 11th generation when one studies the Bible in its historical context.  So, she can get in and she did!) It says that a MUMZER will not enter and Timothy is a mumzer - his mom was Jewish and his dad a pagan (Hebrew for one of illegitimate birth)!!  Timothy!!  He became a leader of the assembly of Messiah in Ephesus.  We say as Gentiles we are grafted in but the Torah says NO!!  God says it loud and clear.  What is going on?  How can both be true?  Oh sure. One is the church and one is the synagogue.  Right??  It can't be.  This is a conundrum!!  Let's check the Hebrew of Exod. 32:14 and Mal. 3:6. Exo 32:14  וינחם H5162  יהוה H3068  על H5921  הרעה H7451  אשׁר H834  דבר H1696  לעשׂות H6213  לעמו׃ H5971  Mal 3:6  כי H3588  אני H589  יהוה H3068  לא H3808  שׁניתי H8138  ואתם H859  בני  H1121  יעקב  H3290  לא H3808  כליתם׃ H3615  In English we are reading the word “change” (as to change one's mind in Ex 32:14 - word # 5162) and change (as to someone not changing as in Mal 3:6 - word #8138).  In Exod 32:14 God "racham's" - it does NOT say He changes His mind!!  The word racham is the word that is translated as "He changed His mind."  That phrase is not even there.  A better way to say this is that God repents; God turns from one thing to another.  He REPENTS.  Moses did NOT change HIS mind.  What happened is God has set in place either punishment or a curse on those who are unrighteous.  That is His intention.  However,  equally part of HIS intention is God's other option to forgive and erase the punishment if there is true repentance.  Both options exist for God.  It is one or the other - this is His simultaneous intention and purpose.  Moses intervened for Israel and God did not change His mind.  He can't.  What God did was to turn, to repent, and allowed the other option.  Both options are in play, both are His intentions.  God has laid out those two options as part of His intentions.  Thus, He did not change at all. In Mal 3:6 the word is "shanaw."  This has the picture of "folding" one side on another.  It has the implication of duplicating.  God stays constant.  He is ONE and will remain ONE.  He is the Lord and HE does not go from one intention to another.  Like with Moses God had either punishment or forgiveness.  Both exist at once as God's intentions.  In the case of sin this is God - both exist.  He will turn from one to the other, from punishment to forgiveness if there is true teshuvah, repentance from the sin, and will not do option 1 but option 2.  God is like that.  He is always like that.  God has it all covered and these options are already in place with HIM as His intentions.  He will not do anything that is not already a part of HIMSELF.  Thus, we study Torah to know HIM deeply and intimately and to begin to understand His ways.     Finally, Moses was the greatest prophet of the Hebrew Scriptures (Deut. 34:10).  God tells Moses the following … “I will raise up a prophet from among their countrymen like you, and I will put My words in his mouth, and he shall speak to them all that I command him.” (Deu 18:18) This is the Lord's prediction of the future coming of His Son, Yeshua HaMashiach, Jesus the Messiah.  So, Jesus is a prophet like Moses; for us as disciples of Jesus we'd say Jesus is the Greatest Prophet ever.  But, we are to be disciples of Jesus or talmidim תַּלְמִידִים.  A talmid is one who is a student of a rabbi and who lives to be like his rabbi.  Check out the article entitled "Rabbi and Talmidim" at this link ... https://www.thattheworldmayknow.com/rabbi-and-talmidim Jesus says this quite clearly … “A pupil (from the Greek to the Hebrew is TALMID) is not above his teacher (from the Greek to the Hebrew is RAV or master. We say RABBI); but everyone, after he has been fully trained, will be like his teacher.” (Luk 6:40)   Thus, if we are real talmidim we are to be like Jesus.  He was given the words of His Father to proclaim and thus Jesus is a prophet.  But we are given the words of Jesus to go and proclaim.  So, we are prophets as well in that Jesus sends us to bring the word to the Ends of the Earth.  And as Moses offers prayers of intercession for Israel so Jesus offers prayers of intercession for His talmidim and the church, His Bride.  Thus, if we are truly living to be a true disciple then we to must be ones who offer prayers of intercession for the ones we meet as well.  We are to be like Him and follow Paul's teaching when he taught that we are to be like Paul since he is like his master, his RAV, Jesus (1Cor. 11:1). Rev. Ferret - who is this guy?  (Ferret - somewhere in the desert north of Eilat Israel) What's his background?  Why should I listen to him?  Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0          

EXODUS LESSON 73 PART 1 In lesson 73 part one and part two we tackle the question, "Does God change His mind?"  As we study Exod. 32:10-18 it is clear the answer to this question is critical.  Also, Moses asks the Lord to not destroy the Hebrews.  It seems as if Moses intercessory request affects the Lord and He "changes His mind."  Or does He?   In this lesson I mention the fact that a generation in the days of Abraham and Moses and Joshua and David and most of the Old Testament is roughly 30 years.  It is not my opinion and here's a link (see below) to to support the 30 year generation.  There are many other scholarly sites that also support a 30 year generation in the Old Testament.  This is critical as we study the days of Ruth.  God said no Moabites were allowed to join the congregation of Israel.  But, Ruth, a Moabite, gets in.  Did God change His mind?  You'll see how a 30 year generation is related to help us understand this dilemma.   Link - GotQuestions.org - https://www.gotquestions.org/generation-in-the-Bible.html Another event in the Bible is the sickness of Hezekiah.   Hezekiah asked the Lord to give him more days to live.  God answered his prayer.  So, God must've changed His mind, right?  Related to this is the link below.  It discusses the question that for God's chosen, for God's elect, His people, disciples of Yeshua, that God fixes the day of our death.  Really? Check it out once again at GotQuestions.org. Link -https://www.gotquestions.org/appointed-death.html So Muslims say Allah الله is our Lord or Adonai יהוה and that our God, Adonai יהוה, is the same as Allah الله.  Really?  This is a very interesting study from the Quran and the Hebrew Scriptures.  It is clear that Allah الله is NOT the same as our Lord or Adonai יהוה.  There is only one God, one Lord, He tells us in His own words.  There is no other God but Yahvay or Adonai יהוה. Here's two links to two articles you must study.  The first shows that Allah الله states in his own words that he can change his mind.  His words show Allah الله contradicts himself when this god says he knows all things and does not change.  And the 2nd article is a paper I did awhile back that shows that Allah الله is NOT the same as our Lord or Adonai יהוה. Link 1 -https://www.calloflove.org/post/contradiction-in-the-quran-allah-changing-his-word Link 2 -https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/g41mrsjrkidlzatocdhpq/The-Bible-Adonai-Allah-and-the-Quran-Who-is-Who.pdf?rlkey=m1ywwe45v4zp1n28w6qmmyhls&st=b3jdqokx&dl=0 Rev. Ferret - who is this guy?  (Ferret - somewhere in the desert north of Eilat Israel) What's his background?  Why should I listen to him?  Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0    

Ruth Had Nothing to Offer by Autumn Dickson Ruth was a woman in an extremely vulnerable position, and she placed herself in an even more vulnerable position with Boaz. Let's talk about it, and let's talk about how it relates to us. Ruth was a Moabite who followed her mother-in-law to Bethlehem. She was not originally part of God's people, but she voluntarily chose to be a part of them at great risk to herself. She was vulnerable as a widow, and she was stepping into a life of poverty by following after her mother-in-law instead of going back to live in her father's house. Not only did she face poor circumstances and the necessity of providing for herself and Naomi by gleaning the fields, she likewise faced potential ridicule and social rejection because of her foreign status. But she wanted to be with Naomi and follow after the God of Israel, so she chose that sacrifice. After spending some time in Bethlehem, taking care of Naomi and gathering up meager amounts of food from hard work, Ruth put herself in an even more vulnerable position. Boaz, a respected and wealthy man in the area, had taken note of Ruth and took steps to make sure she was okay. After hearing about Boaz watching out for Ruth, Naomi encourages Ruth to essentially propose to Boaz. According to the direction of Naomi, Ruth follows Boaz to the threshing floor one night, uncovers his feet, and goes to sleep there. Boaz wakes up and finds her, and she asks him to essentially take her under his wing. She asks him to marry her and bring her into his protection. Boaz agrees to do so if another relative relinquishes his first claim upon her. In order to understand the vulnerability that Ruth found herself in, it's important to understand the context of the threshing floor. Threshing floors were not inherently evil; they were community spaces where people went and prepared their different grains to finish the harvesting process. However, threshing floors were associated with a celebratory period that sometimes got out of hand. It was a male-dominated space, and there was drinking. It was not uncommon for prostitution. Let it be known, it was also common for wealthy men to sleep there and protect their grain piles. Boaz wasn't there to get in trouble; he was there to protect his grain. And yet, I want to highlight the potential danger for Ruth. Naomi trusted the integrity of Boaz and sent Ruth anyway. Beyond just protecting her, here is an extra thing that Boaz did for her. Ruth 3:14 And she lay at his feet until the morning: and she rose up before one could know another. And he said, Let it not be known that a woman came into the floor. So Boaz protected her in every sense of the word. He could have taken advantage of her and probably gotten away with it. He could have thrown her to the wolves and ruined her reputation. As an outsider, she already faced scrutiny. She could have been branded a loose woman and made herself ineligible for future marriage. Regardless of whether it's just or moral that he had the power to do this is a question for another day. The fact remains that he did have power to do so, and he didn't. Not only did he avoid taking advantage of her, he also protected her from potential shame. If we generalize some of these ideas, we might find some personal parallels in our relationship with Jesus Christ. Here are a couple of reflections. 1) Boaz didn't actually have a responsibility to take care of Ruth. It is important to note that Boaz didn't have to legally take care of Ruth. In ancient Israelite custom, a brother of the dead husband would marry the widow and buy the land to keep the inheritance in the family. Boaz was a more distant relative. He was eligible but not required. It wasn't expected of him. In fact, the relative who was closer to her wanted the land but refused when he found out he would also inherit Ruth. Boaz married Ruth. He went above and beyond what was required of him to protect her. And how poignant is that? Christ was eligible to save us but not obligated. He chose to do it. He wanted to protect us. 2) She had nothing to offer Boaz except loyalty and need. Boaz didn't reap any benefit for marrying Ruth other than receiving her love and gratitude. Even beyond the fact that he didn't have a legal obligation, he was essentially bringing on “dead weight.” I understand that sounds heartless, but let me expound. Boaz had the option of marrying advantageously. He had to pay to get the land that had belonged to Ruth's previous husband; it didn't just come to him. He could have married someone that would have contributed to his own wealth or social standing without any complications of marrying a foreigner. Not to mention, any children he had with Ruth would be considered heirs of her first husband. That's why the other relative had refused. It endangered his personal estate. Boaz was willing to pay the price for kindness. Obviously Ruth had value as a human being. However, when she is logically compared with other options, she isn't bringing much to the table. Sound familiar? We hold very limited benefit in the traditional sense. Even as long-term investments, the Lord gives us everything we have and then gives us more when we try to serve Him. We don't offer much. And yet, Christ knows the value of being loved in return. Boaz recognized a woman who would add much more to his home despite the costs. He watched her love Naomi, and he knew that she would be the kind of person that brings joy. Christ is willing to pay the price of kindness, and He recognizes that investments don't necessarily bring joy. Our loyalty and gratitude and willingness bring joy. 3) And then, of course, the point I highlighted before: Ruth was vulnerable and Boaz protected her. Ruth could have been ridiculed and rejected. She was already prone to it because she was born a Moabite. It became that much more dangerous when she voluntarily chose to approach Boaz on the threshing floor. Someday we will stand vulnerable before the Lord. Someday we will live in a time where secrets are shouted from the rooftops. What secrets are you worried about? What do you want protected and kept private? I testify of a Lord who “forgets” our sins when we repent. I believe in a Lord who is willing to cover for us and take us under His protection. I believe in a Lord whose name is so powerful that we don't have to fear rejection and ridicule. He covers us when we approach Him in faith and humility. He doesn't despise our weakness; He honors it by taking it upon Himself. I testify of a Lord who pays the price of kindness and simply wants our love in return. It brings Him joy. Do not withhold it from Him. Do not withhold yourself from Him. He loves you. Autumn Dickson was born and raised in a small town in Texas. She served a mission in the Indianapolis Indiana mission. She studied elementary education but has found a particular passion in teaching the gospel. Her desire for her content is to inspire people to feel confident, peaceful, and joyful about their relationship with Jesus Christ and to allow that relationship to touch every aspect of their lives. Autumn was the recipient of FAIR's 2024 John Taylor Defender of the Faith Award. The post Come, Follow Me with FAIR – Ruth; 1 Samuel 1–7 – Part 1 – Autumn Dickson appeared first on FAIR.

Ruth the Moabite and how she became Israel and a mother in God's line. Boaz, in him is strength. Redeemers …

We are approaching the centenary of the discovery of the Ugaritic language, which belongs to the same family of languages as Hebrew, Aramaic, Moabite, and others. This relationship with Hebrew permits insights to flow both from Hebrew to Ugaritic and Ugaritic to Hebrew. One illustration of this is found in Prov. 12:17. A word traditionally parsed as a verb in a context that seemed to call for a noun was confirmed to be a noun when Ugaritic parallels were uncovered. Some English translations are still catching up. Dr. Andrew Burlingame, a prior contributor to this podcast, is a Wheaton College Classical Languages program alumnus and is now Assistant Professor of Hebrew at the same. He specializes in Northwest Semitic languages, including Hebrew, Aramaic, Phoenician, and Ugaritic, along with their history and texts. Some of his recent publications are featured here.   Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/4dbosJz  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/4nb1vKP 

→ Watch on YouTube → Detailed Show Notes → Timestamps: (00:00) Ruth, a Moabite, becomes a central character in Israel's history as the great-grandmother of King David, through whose line comes Jesus Christ. Her story shows that God is the God of the whole world.(10:52) After becoming a widow, Ruth goes to Bethlehem and gleans in the fields of Boaz. The Law commanded that owners “not reap the corners of their fields,” thus providing for the poor.(13:53) How Boaz symbolizes Christ and how Ruth represents all of us coming unto him to be redeemed.(23:15) Ruth proposes marriage to Boaz. The threshing floor as a symbol for covenants and the temple. Jesus says “I will gather my people as a man gathereth his sheaves into the floor.”(29:46) The other kinsman that has claim upon Ruth can be seen as a symbol of Jesus reconciling and paying our debts for the things that have claim on us. God will compensate us for the difficult times in our lives.(33:03) All the characters in the story of Ruth are demonstrating hesed, or covenant love. The image of the circle and square coming together as a symbol for the union of heaven and earth.(38:46) In the Book of Samuel, Hannah comes to the tabernacle at Shiloh to pray for God to give her a son. Like Hannah, all of us experience times of deprivation, even when it is a righteous desire we seek.(43:02) Hannah's prayer led to the birth of Samuel and then an even more abundant blessing of many children. God is bounteous in his loving kindness.(45:39) The Song of Hannah as a triumphant song of praise and overcoming adversity. It gives reference to the King, but there is no monarchy yet. This song can be seen as a prophecy of the Savior and contains temple imagery.(49:13) Eli's sons reject the Lord, so Samuel will take their place as High Priest.(50:08) The Lord calls young Samuel to be a prophet, but he doesn't immediately understand. Eli helps him open his ears. Sometimes we brush off impressions as coincidence, but oftentimes they are revelation.(54:32) Samuel is recognized as a prophet. Prophets advise Israel's kings and when they listen to the prophet they are blessed.(57:42) The Israelites are defeated by the Philistines. Eli and his sons die. Samuel exhorts Israel to serve the Lord and the Philistines are subdued. → For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here. → Enroll in Institute → YouTube → Apple Podcasts → Spotify → Amazon Music → Facebook The post Ep 374 | Ruth; 1 Samuel 1-7, Come Follow Me 2026 (June 1-7) appeared first on LDS Scripture Teachings.

The sermon explores the transition of Israel from the wilderness to the plains of Moab, emphasizing God's sovereign justice in the conquest of Canaanite territories while affirming His command to spare the Moabites and Edomites due to their kinship with Abraham and Jacob. It clarifies that the destruction of the Canaanites was not a blanket genocide but a divinely ordained judgment on a culture whose wickedness had reached full measure, contrasting it with Israel's call to be a light to the nations. Through the narrative of the Arnon River, the songs of war and work, and the conquest of Sihon and Og, the text highlights God's provision, the maturation of Israel's faith, and the principle that spiritual victory comes not through carnal warfare but through obedience and divine empowerment. The sermon concludes by warning that the greatest threats to God's people are not external enemies, but internal compromises—such as idolatry and immorality—illustrated by the Moabite daughters' seduction, which ultimately led to judgment, underscoring the need for continual spiritual vigilance and dependence on God's grace.

After the conquest of the Promised Land, Israel moves into the time of Judges. The book begins with the aftermath of Joshua's death and we see the people fall into a cycle of falling away from God, being subject to another nation, crying out to God for deliverance, a judge being raised, and then peace for a period of time before the cycle starts again. A word of warning: Judges can be a violent and often disturbing book. It is an example of how people act when they try to live apart from God and it is not pretty.If you are enjoying Bible Backdrop, please leave a 5 star rating and review. If you want to contact the show, the e-mail address is given in the episode. Find Bible Backdrop on Apple, Spotify or wherever podcasts are shown.

Journey into some of the most tender and powerful stories of faith in this moving episode of Handmaidens, Harems, and Heroines with Lynne Hilton Wilson. Focusing on the Book of Ruth and the opening chapters of 1 Samuel, Lynne explores the lives of extraordinary covenant women whose loyalty, sacrifice, and trust in God changed the course of Israel's history. At the heart of the episode is Ruth—a Moabite widow whose devotion to her mother-in-law Naomi stands as one of the most beautiful expressions of covenant loyalty in scripture. Lynne unpacks Ruth's courageous choice to leave everything behind, her humble faith as she gleans in the fields, and her eventual redemption through Boaz, the kinsman-redeemer. Together, their story becomes a powerful symbol of belonging, divine providence, and the inclusive reach of God's covenant. The episode also turns to Hannah, a woman of deep sorrow and even deeper faith. Through her heartfelt prayers and unwavering devotion, Hannah becomes the mother of Samuel, one of Israel's greatest prophets. Lynne explores Hannah's covenant with God, her willingness to consecrate her long-awaited son, and the spiritual foundation she provides for Samuel's prophetic calling. With insight and compassion, Lynne weaves these stories together to highlight how women—often overlooked—play central roles in God's unfolding plan. This episode offers a rich, inspiring look at faith, family, redemption, and the quiet strength of covenant discipleship.

In this inspiring episode for Shavuot, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe presents a complete overview and deep dive into the Book of Ruth (Megillat Ruth). Written by the Prophet Samuel, it tells the story of Ruth the Moabite princess who converts to Judaism out of genuine love for Naomi and the Jewish people, ultimately becoming the great-grandmother of King David and an ancestor of Moshiach. The book emphasizes themes of kindness (Chesed), loyalty, modesty, second chances, and personal commitment to Torah.Rabbi Wolbe highlights why Ruth is read on Shavuot: it shows the Torah is acquired through difficulty and dedication (not luxury), Ruth's conversion mirrors our acceptance of the Torah at Sinai (“Na'aseh v'nishma”), the story occurs during the harvest season (Chag HaKatzir), and it underscores the centrality of Chesed — the very foundation of the Torah. He also explains key halachic concepts from the book (Leket, Pe'ah, Shikcha, Yibum, Chalitzah) and powerful lessons about not running from challenges, embracing one's unique journey, and understanding that apparent setbacks often pave the way for redemption and greatness.To Download the Book of Ruth Outline: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Z6J6Zcvl8EJ0R8s_nSGhzGxLV5uM81eb_____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on May 19, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on May 20, 2026_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #BookOfRuth, #Ruth, #Shavuot, #Chesed, #Conversion, #KingDavid, #Mashiach, #NaasehVNishma, #KindnessMatters, #Omer, #JewishHistory ★ Support this podcast ★

In this inspiring episode for Shavuot, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe presents a complete overview and deep dive into the Book of Ruth (Megillat Ruth). Written by the Prophet Samuel, it tells the story of Ruth the Moabite princess who converts to Judaism out of genuine love for Naomi and the Jewish people, ultimately becoming the great-grandmother of King David and an ancestor of Moshiach. The book emphasizes themes of kindness (Chesed), loyalty, modesty, second chances, and personal commitment to Torah.Rabbi Wolbe highlights why Ruth is read on Shavuot: it shows the Torah is acquired through difficulty and dedication (not luxury), Ruth's conversion mirrors our acceptance of the Torah at Sinai (“Na'aseh v'nishma”), the story occurs during the harvest season (Chag HaKatzir), and it underscores the centrality of Chesed — the very foundation of the Torah. He also explains key halachic concepts from the book (Leket, Pe'ah, Shikcha, Yibum, Chalitzah) and powerful lessons about not running from challenges, embracing one's unique journey, and understanding that apparent setbacks often pave the way for redemption and greatness.To Download the Book of Ruth Outline: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Z6J6Zcvl8EJ0R8s_nSGhzGxLV5uM81eb_____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on May 19, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on May 20, 2026_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #BookOfRuth, #Ruth, #Shavuot, #Chesed, #Conversion, #KingDavid, #Mashiach, #NaasehVNishma, #KindnessMatters, #Omer, #JewishHistory ★ Support this podcast ★

In this inspiring episode for Shavuot, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe presents a complete overview and deep dive into the Book of Ruth (Megillat Ruth). Written by the Prophet Samuel, it tells the story of Ruth the Moabite princess who converts to Judaism out of genuine love for Naomi and the Jewish people, ultimately becoming the great-grandmother of King David and an ancestor of Moshiach. The book emphasizes themes of kindness (Chesed), loyalty, modesty, second chances, and personal commitment to Torah.Rabbi Wolbe highlights why Ruth is read on Shavuot: it shows the Torah is acquired through difficulty and dedication (not luxury), Ruth's conversion mirrors our acceptance of the Torah at Sinai (“Na'aseh v'nishma”), the story occurs during the harvest season (Chag HaKatzir), and it underscores the centrality of Chesed — the very foundation of the Torah. He also explains key halachic concepts from the book (Leket, Pe'ah, Shikcha, Yibum, Chalitzah) and powerful lessons about not running from challenges, embracing one's unique journey, and understanding that apparent setbacks often pave the way for redemption and greatness.To Download the Book of Ruth Outline: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Z6J6Zcvl8EJ0R8s_nSGhzGxLV5uM81eb_____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on May 19, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on May 20, 2026_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #BookOfRuth, #Ruth, #Shavuot, #Chesed, #Conversion, #KingDavid, #Mashiach, #NaasehVNishma, #KindnessMatters, #Omer, #JewishHistory ★ Support this podcast ★

SHAVUOTFrom Ruth to King DavidOne woman merited what no one else did. Ruth the Moabite-a convert from the nation of Moab-became forever bound with the Torah itself, to the point that her story is read each year on Shavuot, the festival of the giving of the Torah. More than anyone else, Ruth teaches the secret of truly receiving Torah and cleaving to it.

Though an outsider and a Moabite, Ruth lives by faith in the promises and provisions found in God's Word.  The Lord proves faithful to Ruth and Naomi, preparing us to see the hope of redemption.

In this richly layered shiur on Megillat Ruth, Rabbi Dunner explores Ruth's journey from Moabite outsider to matriarch of the Davidic dynasty. Through Chazal, Midrash, Gemara, and modern scholarship, he reveals how the the themes of chesed, gerut, legitimacy, and personal redemption quietly shape the foundations of Jewish kingship, national destiny, and the ultimate vision of Messianic geulah.

In part two of Ruth: Redeemed By Love, Pastor Derek Holmes walks through Ruth 2 and the unforgettable moment Ruth meets Boaz — a “meet-cute” that is far more than a charming love-story scene. What looks like a chance encounter in a barley field is actually the sovereign hand of God at work, weaving together grace, provision, protection, and redemption. Ruth enters the field as a poor Moabite widow with no security, no status, and no guarantee of survival. But Boaz sees her, welcomes her, protects her, provides for her, and points us toward the greater Redeemer, Jesus Christ. Through this story, we are reminded that God is never absent, even in ordinary circumstances; Jesus welcomes us in spite of our brokenness; and when we meet the Redeemer, everything changes. This message invites us to consider where God may be working through what we often call coincidence, and it calls every listener to find refuge, hope, and salvation under the wings of Christ.

In part two of Ruth: Redeemed By Love, Pastor Derek Holmes walks through Ruth 2 and the unforgettable moment Ruth meets Boaz — a “meet-cute” that is far more than a charming love-story scene. What looks like a chance encounter in a barley field is actually the sovereign hand of God at work, weaving together grace, provision, protection, and redemption. Ruth enters the field as a poor Moabite widow with no security, no status, and no guarantee of survival. But Boaz sees her, welcomes her, protects her, provides for her, and points us toward the greater Redeemer, Jesus Christ. Through this story, we are reminded that God is never absent, even in ordinary circumstances; Jesus welcomes us in spite of our brokenness; and when we meet the Redeemer, everything changes. This message invites us to consider where God may be working through what we often call coincidence, and it calls every listener to find refuge, hope, and salvation under the wings of Christ.

Torah Class - Shavuot: Women Who Charted the WayThe fascinating journey of Naomi and Ruth the Moabite,which charted the path for sincere and meaningful conversion.

https://square.link/u/UHRU92rp - Donate HereToday's reading brings us back to Ruth 4, where the whole story of emptiness, loss, loyalty, and providence comes rushing into one word: redeemed. Boaz goes to the gate, settles the matter publicly, and takes Ruth as his wife so that the name of the dead would not be forgotten. What looked like a family line ending in grief becomes a story God keeps alive through the work of a redeemer.Ruth the Moabite is no longer just the outsider with a painful label; she is blessed like Rachel and Leah, welcomed into the story of Israel, and placed in the line that leads to David—and ultimately to Christ. Naomi, who began the book bitter and empty, ends it with a baby in her lap and joy in her hands. That is what redemption does: it restores names, fills empty places, and turns broken stories into gospel testimonies.

Are you a woman blessed with the gift of a wonderful mother-in-law? We can hardly think of a more important relationship. Through the ages, this mentoring friendship has sealed families and nurtured them. Likewise, we easily see the pain inflicted when this relationship isn't good.In the Old Testament, we read of a really remarkable mother-in-law. She showed great kindness to a young woman at just the right moment.After returning home to Bethlehem after a famine is over, Naomi wants the best for her young daughter-in-law, Ruth, whose husband has died. Although she must have longed for security herself and companionship, Naomi encourages Ruth to marry Boaz. Eventually, Ruth has a son, Obed, who would become the grandfather of King David!Ruth 1:22 says, “So Naomi returned from Moab accompanied by Ruth the Moabite, her daughter-in-law, arriving in Bethlehem as the barley harvest was beginning.”Naomi's unselfish act, her encouragement to the vulnerable Ruth, is the model for all such relationships. It is intentionally about the other person. It is the story of a woman mentoring and loving another she sees as her daughter.So, how will your mother-in-law's story be recorded? Have you thought about that?How will the women in your family remember you?Let's pray.Lord, people are watching us in how we treat others. Nowhere is that more important than in our own homes. Help us think of others before we think of ourselves. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15. 

https://square.link/u/UHRU92rp - Donate HereToday's reading takes us to Matthew 1, where what looks like a simple genealogy becomes a stunning announcement: Jesus did not appear randomly—He came through a long, sovereignly woven story of promise, failure, redemption, outsiders, sinners, saints, and grace. Matthew shows us that Jesus is the rightful Messiah, the fulfillment of generations, and the beginning of a new family.As we prepare for Ruth 4, Matthew 1 reminds us that Ruth's story was never small. The Moabite woman who kept taking one faithful step after another became part of the line that brought Christ into the world. God still uses lifetimes to bring Jesus to the world, so wherever you are in the race, finish well. Let your life point to Him.

Study the daily lesson of Sefer HaMitzvos for day 92 with Rabbi Mendel Kaplan, where he teaches the mitzvah in-depth with added insight and detail.

https://square.link/u/UHRU92rp - Donate HereIn Book of Ruth chapter 2, Ruth is still being labeled by her past—the Moabite, the outsider, the one who doesn't belong. But when the redeemer speaks, everything shifts. He doesn't call her what she was… he calls her “my daughter.”Even as her identity is being changed, Ruth struggles to believe it—still clinging to old labels while being invited into something new. And that's the tension we all feel.When the Redeemer steps in, your past doesn't define you anymore. You belong now.

There is no hope for the disinherited unless someone sacrifices their inheritance for them. Ruth 2:1–22 (ESV): 2 Now Naomi had a relative of her husband's, a worthy man of the clan of Elimelech, whose name was Boaz. 2 And Ruth the Moabite said to Naomi, “Let me go to the field and glean among the ears of grain after him in whose sight I shall find favor.” And she said to her, “Go, my daughter.” 3 So she set out and went and gleaned in the field after the reapers, and she happened to come to the part of the field belonging to Boaz, who was of the clan of Elimelech. 4 And behold, Boaz came from Bethlehem. And he said to the reapers, “The LORD be with you!” And they answered, “The LORD bless you.” 5 Then Boaz said to his young man who was in charge of the reapers, “Whose young woman is this?” 6 And the servant who was in charge of the reapers answered, “She is the young Moabite woman, who came back with Naomi from the country of Moab. 7 She said, ‘Please let me glean and gather among the sheaves after the reapers.' So she came, and she has continued from early morning until now, except for a short rest.” 8 Then Boaz said to Ruth, “Now, listen, my daughter, do not go to glean in another field or leave this one, but keep close to my young women. 9 Let your eyes be on the field that they are reaping, and go after them. Have I not charged the young men not to touch you? And when you are thirsty, go to the vessels and drink what the young men have drawn.” 10 Then 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?” 11 But Boaz answered her, “All that you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband has been fully told to me, and how you left your father and mother and your native land and came to a people that you did not know before. 12 The LORD repay you for what you have done, and a full reward be given you by the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge!” 13 Then she said, “I have found favor in your eyes, my lord, for you have comforted me and spoken kindly to your servant, though I am not one of your servants.” 14 And at mealtime Boaz said to her, “Come here and eat some bread and dip your morsel in the wine.” So she sat beside the reapers, and he passed to her roasted grain. And she ate until she was satisfied, and she had some left over. 15 When she rose to glean, Boaz instructed his young men, saying, “Let her glean even among the sheaves, and do not reproach her. 16 And also pull out some from the bundles for her and leave it for her to glean, and do not rebuke her.” 17 So she gleaned in the field until evening. Then she beat out what she had gleaned, and it was about an ephah of barley. 18 And she took it up and went into the city. Her mother-in-law saw what she had gleaned. She also brought out and gave her what food she had left over after being satisfied. 19 And her mother-in-law said to her, “Where did you glean today? And where have you worked? Blessed be the man who took notice of you.” So she told her mother-in-law with whom she had worked and said, “The man's name with whom I worked today is Boaz.” 20 And Naomi said to her daughter-in-law, “May he be blessed by the LORD, whose kindness has not forsaken the living or the dead!” Naomi also said to her, “The man is a close relative of ours, one of our redeemers.” 21 And Ruth the Moabite said, “Besides, he said to me, ‘You shall keep close by my young men until they have finished all my harvest.' ” 22 And Naomi said to Ruth, her daughter-in-law, “It is good, my daughter, that you go out with his young women, lest in another field you be assaulted.”

Send us Fan MailThe book of Ruth records how God preserved a family line during the time of the judges. Ruth, a Moabite widow, leaves her people and commits herself to Naomi, saying, “Your people shall be my people, and your God my God.” She comes to Bethlehem, where Boaz acts as a redeemer according to the law. Their marriage leads to the birth of Obed, the grandfather of King David. Ruth shows God's providence and faithfulness in preserving the family line of David.Support the showStay engaged with new and up-to-date content, including newsletters, articles, podcasts, etc. Download the Teach Me the Bible App from any app store or Apple TV/Roku device.

This week on Consider This, Justin Ebert is joined by Jim Johnson and Drew Moss to discuss Ruth 1–4, 1 Samuel 1–10, and Romans 1–6. The conversation begins in Ruth, exploring the historical and cultural background of the book, the significance of Ruth as a Moabite, the themes of faithfulness and redemption, and the many ways this story points ahead to Jesus and the gospel. Then, in 1 Samuel, they look at the spiritual condition of Israel, the failure of its leaders, the significance of Hannah, Samuel, and Saul, and the reasons Israel demanded a king—along with what these chapters reveal about God's kingship and the coming of a greater King. Finally, the guys discuss how the Gospel is the power of God. Links: -BibleProject on Ruth: https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-ruth/ -BibleProject on Samuel: https://bibleproject.com/guides/books-of-samuel/ -BibleProject on Romans: https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-romans/ -OCC NEXT Level on Romans: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLAhFi-fpiIJ0ir0QyYVaoAtmU7pzVFVFj

The Book of Ruth teaches profound lessons about patience and faith during uncertain times. When Ruth asked Boaz to take her under his wing, she was seeking divine protection and covering, similar to the healing power found in the tassels of ancient prayer shawls. Naomi's advice to sit still wasn't about inactivity, but about trusting God's timing over our own urgency. The story demonstrates that we cannot worry and worship simultaneously - anxiety focuses on ourselves while worship redirects our attention to God's character. Ruth's background as a despised Moabite shows how God brings forth redemption from broken beginnings, ultimately placing her in the lineage of Christ.Thank you for joining us at NorthRidge Church! For more information please visit us online at http://www.northridgethomaston.com.

Discover the incredible redemption story in the Book of Ruth and how it reveals God's amazing love story that points directly to Jesus Christ. This powerful biblical narrative shows us what it truly means to be redeemed and how God can transform even the most unlikely circumstances into His perfect plan. Learn about the ancient concept of kinsman redeemer and why this role was so crucial in biblical times. When Naomi faced desperate circumstances as a widow, her only hope was finding a family member willing to redeem her deceased husband's property and care for her financially. But the story becomes even more compelling when we discover there was another relative closer than Boaz who had first rights to redeem the land. Find out why this other redeemer backed down when he learned about Ruth the Moabite, and how Boaz's sacrificial love made all the difference. This isn't just an ancient love story - it's a powerful picture of how Jesus redeems us today. Just as Boaz counted the cost and decided Ruth was worth it, Jesus looked at humanity and chose to pay the ultimate price for our salvation. Explore how marriage reflects God's covenant love and why Boaz didn't take shortcuts with Ruth. Their public commitment mirrors how God makes covenant with His people. Discover how Ruth's reputation was transformed from shame to honor through Boaz's worthiness, just as our past is covered by Christ's righteousness. This message reveals the surprising connection between Ruth's story and the lineage of King David and Jesus Christ. Without this unlikely union between a Hebrew man and Moabite woman, there would have been no David and no Messiah. Learn how God weaves together even the most unexpected circumstances to accomplish His redemptive purposes. Uncover the deeper meaning behind Naomi's journey from bitterness to blessing and what it teaches us about God's providence. See how what seemed like discipline was actually God's way of leading her back to redemption and restoration. This timeless story shows us that no one is too far gone for God's redemption and that He can transform any story through His amazing grace.

Discover powerful lessons about faith, redemption, and finding true rest in God through the compelling story of Ruth chapter 3. This biblical narrative reveals how to overcome feelings of unworthiness and approach God with confidence, while learning what it means to have a Redeemer who never gives up on you. Explore the profound concept of the kinsman-redeemer and how Boaz serves as a beautiful picture of Christ's redemptive work. Learn why seeking security in worldly pursuits like career success, relationships, or financial stability ultimately leaves us empty, while God's provision offers true satisfaction and rest for our souls. Ruth's bold midnight encounter with Boaz demonstrates the courage available to every believer when approaching God. Despite her background as a foreign Moabite, Ruth's genuine faith transformed her reputation in the community, showing how God sees us as worthy through Christ regardless of our past mistakes or failures. This message addresses common struggles with self-worth, spiritual boldness, and trusting God's timing when facing obstacles. Discover how Christ serves as our restless Redeemer who actively intercedes and pursues His people, never resting until every soul comes into His fold. Key topics covered include biblical redemption, overcoming shame and unworthiness, developing spiritual courage, trusting God's providence, and understanding Christ's ongoing intercession for believers. Whether you're struggling with past failures, seeking direction in life, or wanting to deepen your understanding of God's redemptive love, this message offers hope and practical application for your spiritual journey. Perfect for anyone interested in Old Testament stories, biblical character studies, understanding redemption theology, or finding encouragement in their relationship with God. Learn how the same God who orchestrated Ruth's story is actively working in your life today.

On today's episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa, Allison, and Kristi McLelland step into the book of Ruth—a small but radiant story shining in Israel's dark days. They unpack misquoted Scriptures, Ruth's surprising Moabite backstory, and Boaz's costly kindness, revealing a powerful portrait of covenant friendship and God's faithful provision. This episode is a reminder that God works through everyday loyalty, kindness, and community. Grab a cup and pull up a chair—we're so glad you're here on the porch.

The story of Ruth and Boaz reveals profound truths about God's favor and redemption. When Ruth, a Moabite widow, humbly asks to glean in Boaz's fields, she encounters extraordinary kindness that goes far beyond legal requirements. Boaz, whose name means strength, represents our kinsman redeemer and demonstrates how God's favor can transform circumstances from emptiness to fullness. Ruth's faithfulness and humility opened doors to blessing, while her willingness to share those blessings with Naomi shows the heart of true gratitude. This beautiful Old Testament picture reminds us that God can take anyone from outsider to insider, giving us beauty for ashes through His incredible grace.Thank you for joining us at NorthRidge Church! For more information please visit us online at http://www.northridgethomaston.com.

In this Bible Story, Lot's daughters trick their father into sleeping with them in order to carry on the bloodline. These children would eventually become the Moabite and Ammonite nations. This story is inspired by Genesis 19:30-38. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year. Today's Bible verse is Genesis 19:30 from the King James Version. Episode 13: Lot and his daughters have escaped the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah by God’s grace and kindness, but, as they hid in the cave at Zoar, wickedness was not far behind. Lot’s daughter's longing for children, stuck in a cave, decided to get their father drunk enough that they could each take turns sleeping with him. Their plan worked, but the sons they bore became enemies of Abraham's descendants for generations to come. Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world’s greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham. Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories. Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living. Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store. Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max Bard Producer: Ben Gammon Hosted by: Pastor Jack Graham Music by: Andrew Morgan Smith Bible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.