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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.
Message from Chris Newkirk on July 19, 2026
Welcome to Immanuel Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia!This Sunday: When Life Demands a Decision (Ruth 1:1-18) with Pastor Jordan FanaraIf you're new to Immanuel, please take a moment to tell us about yourself through our online connect card.We would love to connect with you this week!» https://immanuelbaptist.org/connect-cardYou can also download our Free app — which makes learning more or watching services even easier.» https://subsplash.com/immanuelbaptist/appIf you would like to join a Community Group, meeting twice a month in homes throughout metro Richmond, visit:» https://immanuelbaptist.org/community-groupsYou can learn more about us anytime at: http://immanuelbaptist.org/Giving remains available online. Thank you for your faithfulness, church family!» https://immanuelbaptist.org/give
What does it look like to return to God after wandering, suffering or loss? In Ruth 1:6-22, the stories of Naomi, Orpah and Ruth reveal the cost, the hope and the struggle of returning to the Lord—and the unexpected kindness that meets us there.
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?
What happens when life falls apart and God seems far away? As we begin our new series, Ruth 1:1-6 takes us into a story of famine, loss and devastation—and begins to reveal the unexpected kindness of God for those who feel far from him.
This week, we look at a mysterious and ancient name for God: El Shaddai. We look at how this name's mysterious ancient roots help to connect us to a God who binds us to a rich, ancient history and who gathers up the outsider.
Ryan Mayer 7/5/2026
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!
Ruth 1–4 || Our Kinsman Redeemer || Roy Rochell by Meridian Church
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Title: The Lord's Will or Yours?Preacher: Jim HamiltonSeries: RuthPassage: Ruth 1:8–22
In this episode of Pray the Word on Ruth 1:22, David Platt encourages us to trust God's faithfulness in times of sorrow.Explore more content from Radical.
Title: The Big Story Writ SmallPreacher: Jim HamiltonSeries: RuthPassage: Ruth 1:1–7
Pastor Ryan Mayor 6/14/26
20 Proverbs 25-26; 07 Judges 21; 08 Ruth 1-4; 1 Samuel 1-2; 19 Psalms 59-64; 41 Mark 1-4
Pastor Levi and Lisa talk about Ruth 1:16 and how Ruth is a Shadow of Christ. This is an episode of Pearls & Swine on the Evangel Houghton Podcast from Evangel Community Church, Houghton, Michigan, June 10, 2026.
Pastor Levi and Lisa talk about Ruth 1:16 and how Ruth is a Shadow of Christ. This is an episode of Pearls & Swine on the Evangel Houghton Podcast from Evangel Community Church, Houghton, Michigan, June 10, 2026.
Pastor Levi and Lisa talk about Ruth 1:16 and how Commitment Becomes Real at the Exit Ramp. This is an episode of Pearls & Swine on the Evangel Houghton Podcast from Evangel Community Church, Houghton, Michigan, June 9, 2026.
Pastor Levi and Lisa talk about Ruth 1:16 and how Commitment Becomes Real at the Exit Ramp. This is an episode of Pearls & Swine on the Evangel Houghton Podcast from Evangel Community Church, Houghton, Michigan, June 9, 2026.
Pastor Levi and Lisa talk about Ruth 1:16 and how Ruth Chose the Person, Not the Prospect. This is an episode of Pearls & Swine on the Evangel Houghton Podcast from Evangel Community Church, Houghton, Michigan, June 8, 2026.
Pastor Levi and Lisa talk about Ruth 1:16 and how Ruth Chose the Person, Not the Prospect. This is an episode of Pearls & Swine on the Evangel Houghton Podcast from Evangel Community Church, Houghton, Michigan, June 8, 2026.
1. Three ladies and three times of faith A. Orpah, a person of shallow faith B. Naomi, a person with struggling faith C. Ruth, a person with shining faith 2. Naomi urges her daughters-in-laws to turn back A. She gives them a blessing B. She reasons their best hope for marriage is to stay C. She is old, bitter, and cursed 3. Ruth's faith shines in her vows A. Stop urging me to go back, I've been converted B. I am committed to you C. I am making a profession of faith to God D. I counted the cost, I am making an oath to God 4. Grace given to Naomi A. She hears good news about food in Bethlehem B. She has a daughter-in-law with faith to overcome C. She has a God that is sovereign to let Ruth's faith shine
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Ruth & 1 Samuel 1–7: Redemption, Prophetic Authority, and the Restoration of Israel with Apostle D. Todd HarrisonIn this doctrinally rich lesson, Apostle D. Todd Harrison guides you through the redemptive beauty of Ruth, the prophetic consecration of Hannah, and the emergence of Samuel, the prophet who restored Israel's spiritual foundation.Explore the covenant patterns, priesthood themes, and prophetic parallels that point directly to the mission of Jesus Christ and the latter‑day restoration.A powerful teaching for serious students of scripture and those seeking apostolic testimony."I testify that Jesus Christ is Alive Today! He has restored his priesthood and authority to the earth in these latter days. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen."D. Todd HarrisonApostle of Jesus ChristSet apart through revelation as a witness of the risen LordYear Seven of Global Apostolic Witness to All Nations
Trusting the Lord With Your Child by Autumn Dickson The story of Hannah is almost too much for me. Hannah struggled with infertility. She went to the tabernacle and prayed her heart out. She told the Lord that she would dedicate her son to Him. Her prayer was so intense that Eli, the priest, thought she was drunk. He tells her the Lord will grant her petition. She goes home, and it is fulfilled. She conceives a son. Hannah kept him until he was weaned. This could have happened as early as 24 months and as late as five years old. After he is weaned, she takes him to Eli. She reminds Eli that she was the woman who was fervently praying for a child before, and then she says this. 1 Samuel 1:27-28 27 For this child I prayed; and the Lord hath given me my petition which I asked of him: 28 Therefore also I have lent him to the Lord; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the Lord. And he worshipped the Lord there. Hannah leaves her son with Eli. She gets to see him annually when they go to the tabernacle to make their sacrifice. This is the part that makes my heart desperately ache. I have two children who currently fall within that age group, and I can't imagine dropping them off and only seeing them once a year. I am quite certain that it would kill me. But Hannah had promised her son to the Lord, and she stuck to that promise. Samuel went to Eli at the temple. Samuel goes on to do incredible things in the name of the Lord. He became the first centralized prophet to Israel in a long time. His ministry is marked by attempts to pull the Israelites out of apostasy and idolatry. He helped Israel transition to a monarchy first with Saul, and then he later anointed David and protected him from Saul. He was known as a great prophet like Moses. When I attempt to put myself in Hannah's shoes, I think there is really only one testimony that would bring me any semblance of peace in the midst of handing my child over. The Lord can do better with him than I can. Luckily, I don't think most of us are facing a time where this sacrifice is required of us. We don't drop our kids off at the temple and dedicate them to the Lord, but there is still a lesson here for all of us. The Lord can do better with your loved one than you can. That doesn't just apply to our children. The Lord can do better with your sister, brother, friend, parent, cousin, grandchild, niece, nephew, spouse, or anyone you love. We can “hand them off” to the Lord and be at peace that the Lord can take them on a journey that's going to be better than the one we can take them on. What does that look like? I can think of two different ways that we can hand our loved one over to the Lord. 1) We closely follow what the Lord has in store for them. I can think of two contrasting examples that depict one principle: I have two family members that strayed from the gospel for a while. They had zero interest in taking part of what the Lord wanted them to have. The first relative was forced to go to church. As long as he lived under the roof of his parents, he would be attending church. His father was adamant about it. And you know what? One day, this relative of mine went to church and one of the speakers said something that reached him. He was no longer forced to go to church because he didn't have to be. My second relative went a different route completely. Her mother received the impression that she should allow her to stay home. This was the right way for my second relative. Because of her personality, forcing her to go would have only caused her to hate it more. It wouldn't have fixed anything. In all honesty, it would have made things worse. Two different approaches that teach a principle when placed side by side: We don't always know what to do, but the Lord does. We may think we know what to do, but we have to let go of trying to control the situation and turn to the Lord for what's going to be best for our child. If one of my children grows to hate the church, my knee-jerk reaction would be to force them to go as long as I could in a desperate attempt to draw them back. And perhaps that's the right answer, but the key is to turn your loved one over to the Lord and follow the path that the Lord has in store for them. Even if part of that path means letting them choose a different path for a while, it's going to end up being the most powerful path if we're following the Lord. Even if that path takes them on a journey like the prodigal son, that journey may be the very thing that makes them so powerful in the end. It may be the very experience they need to finally develop a relationship with a Savior who can watch over them. Fear is natural when we worry about our loved ones, but we can hush our fears and lean on the promises of the Savior. His atonement reaches wide and far. It can turn sin into stepping stones. Consequences become opportunities to turn to the Savior. The Savior has earned our trust. We can lean on Him and let Him lead. 2) Sometimes trusting the Lord with your loved one is an internal battle. Hannah's path looked a little different than both of my relatives. She wasn't trying to save Samuel. In many ways, she was simply letting him go. Sometimes that is the path we have to take. Even when our children are young, we can't really control them. It can be easier to force them to do something when they're little. However, even then, control is often an illusion. As they get older, the illusion disappears and you have to hope they're wise enough to follow the Lord. But no matter how we hope, sometimes they take a different path. Sometimes the Lord is going to seem rather silent on the matter when we're desperately trying to save our loved one. That isn't a sign that you screwed up or that He doesn't love them; sometimes, that loved one is simply going to choose what they're going to choose regardless of the path that you choose to take. Sometimes turning your loved one over to the Lord means seeking out the Lord's will for them; sometimes turning your loved one over to the Lord means finding peace in the midst of being powerless to help them (at least for a time). Even if the Lord is silent, that doesn't mean He doesn't have a plan. It likely just means there isn't anything you can do to help that plan along at this point. When there is nothing you can physically do to help your loved one, you do what Hannah did. You let go and trust that the Lord has a plan for them. Just like with Hannah's situation, I think a knowledge of my Savior's power and love is the only thing that would bring peace. I can't change anything externally, but I can orient my heart towards the Savior and let His promises enable me to hope. I testify of a Savior who does have a plan. He has the Plan of Salvation which included the creation, fall, and atonement, but He also has individual Plans of Salvation for each of us. He knows exactly where your loved one is. He has steps to take and action to follow through on, and He will do so. It may take a long time, longer than you want or even imagine right now, but the Lord's plans can stretch that far. You can trust Him to take care of them, and you can put that burden down and rest. That doesn't mean you don't mourn, but it does mean you simultaneously carry the Savior's promises in your heart so that you can keep going. I testify that He will fulfill His promises. 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 2 – Autumn Dickson appeared first on FAIR.
Pastor Levi and Lisa talk about how The Book of Ruth shows us: God is Already Moving Before You Can See It. This is an episode of Pearls & Swine on the Evangel Houghton Podcast from Evangel Community Church, Houghton, Michigan, June 3, 2026.
Pastor Levi and Lisa talk about how The Book of Ruth shows us: God is Already Moving Before You Can See It. This is an episode of Pearls & Swine on the Evangel Houghton Podcast from Evangel Community Church, Houghton, Michigan, June 3, 2026.
Jennifer Roach Lees holds a Master in Divinity as well as a Masters in Counseling Psychology. She is a licensed mental health therapist and lives in Utah. The post Come, Follow Me with FAIR – Ruth; 1 Samuel 1–7 – Jennifer Roach Lees appeared first on FAIR.
When things are very uncertain in your life, the story of Ruth is a great example for us to follow by observing what she chooses to hold fast to.If you'd like to view the video that goes with the podcast, click here!
Pastor Levi and Lisa talk about how The Book of Ruth shows us You Don't Have to be Okay to Pray. This is an episode of Pearls & Swine on the Evangel Houghton Podcast from Evangel Community Church, Houghton, Michigan, June 1, 2026.
Ruth is a happy interlude in these chapters. It's not a story of a prophet, a war, or a dramatic intervention by the Lord, but it's a family story, a private story in some ways, but it's the family story of the family of the Savior. We love it because we are seeing really good people who are living the covenant at work. So this is a book that brings us joy.
Ruth's strength of convictions
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.
No matter what challenges we face, the Lord will lead us to help us overcome difficulties and guide us when we are faced with decisions. Click here to see the speech page.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How do we respond when things don't turn out the way we'd hoped? This week's CFM study can help us know how to respond life's surprises and struggles come up.If you'd like to view the video that goes with the podcast, click here!
Listen to Big Picture to get the quick context for this week's reading, Ruth; 1 Samuel 1-7!And grab study guides for the whole family here: - To get Cali's scripture study guide for adults click here: https://comefollowmestudy.com/shop/ Discount code: OMSSOr purchase on Amazon: https://a.co/d/06bWsVYV-Grab Kristen's copies of helpful PDFs and study guides here: https://shop.kristenwalkersmith.com/products/ Check out her YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@startherestudy/shortsGet our NEW 365-day Old Testament daily devotional book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0p3Ds0t Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today we look at the goodness and selfless nature of Naomi
This is the "Come, Follow Me" Read-along where we read the assigned chapters for the weekly study curriculum of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This is not a commentary podcast, just undiluted scripture read for you by Bradley Ross. Old Testament chapters are from the NET Bible® http://netbible.org copyright ©1996, 2019 used with permission from Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved.00:00 Introduction00:12 Ruth 13:57 Ruth 28:06 Ruth 310:54 Ruth 414:22 1 Samuel 119:33 1 Samuel 226:26 1 Samuel 330:08 1 Samuel 434:22 1 Samuel 536:41 1 Samuel 641:04 1 Samuel 7
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→ 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.
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Send us Fan MailWelcome to Grounded, where women and men of all ages, nationalities, and backgrounds gather together with me, Dr. Barbara Morgan Gardner and my guests as we strive to build a bedrock understanding of the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and become more like him. Today, join me and Stephanie Dibb Sorensen as we discuss Ruth; 1 Samuel 1–7!Grounded Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegroundedpodcast_/Grounded Podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGroundedPodcast?mibextid=LQQJ4dBarbara Morgan Gardner Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drbarbaramorgangardner/?hl=enBarbara Morgan Gardner Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/barbara.morgan.37051/Support the show
Follow Him: A Come, Follow Me Podcast featuring Hank Smith & John Bytheway
Professor Lori Newbold draws on her background in theology and mental health to illuminate Hannah's extraordinary faith, her meekness under provocation, her wordless prayers of grief, and the surprising truth that being a mother, like being a disciple, is not a destination we wait for but an identity we live now.YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/Oc09qEPPBcsFREE PDF DOWNLOADS OF followHIM QUOTE BOOKSNew Testament: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastNTBookOld Testament: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastOTBookBook of Mormon: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastBMBook WEEKLY NEWSLETTERhttps://tinyurl.com/followHIMnewsletter SOCIAL MEDIAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/followHIMpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/followhimpodcastTIMECODE0:00 - Part 2 - Professor Lori Newbold1:51 Feeling misunderstood2:51 Personal testimonies on being misunderstood3:54 How to respond when people say the wrong thing4:57 Hannah's prayer6:41 Only God truly knows us8:23 Hannah as type of Jesus Christ9:38 Hannah's vow and prayer12:57 Eli's response and Eli's faith14:10 The Lord remembered Hannah17:01 President Oaks on motherhood and identity19:28 Jacob 1:1124:20 Hannah keeps her promise28:14 Eli's parenting failure30:35 Hannah and Mary–Mary's Magnificat35:40 Motherhood identity and the Adversary39:40 Recording the hand of the Lord42:25 Remember the Lord in reply49:50 I still love you52:39 Don't be afraid to apologize57:12 Samuel hears the Lord1:03:18 Sister Beck and living in revelation1:06:19 Samuel and the monarchy1:07:51 Closing testimony of Jesus Christ1:11:30 End of Part 2 - Professor Lori NewboldThanks to the followHIM team:Steve & Shannon Sorensen: Cofounder, Executive Producer, SponsorDavid & Verla Sorensen: SponsorsDr. Hank Smith: Co-hostJohn Bytheway: Co-hostDavid Perry: ProducerKyle Nelson: Marketing, SponsorLisa Spice: Client Relations, Editor, Show NotesWill Stoughton: Video EditorKrystal Roberts: Translation Team, English & French Transcripts, WebsiteAriel Cuadra: Spanish TranscriptsAmelia Kabwika: Portuguese TranscriptsHeather Barlow: Communications DirectorSydney Smith: Social Media, Graphic Design "Let Zion in Her Beauty Rise" by Marshall McDonaldhttps://www.marshallmcdonaldmusic.com
Follow Him: A Come, Follow Me Podcast featuring Hank Smith & John Bytheway
What do you do when God's plan looks nothing like the one you had for yourself? Professor Lori Newbold explores the timeless stories of Ruth, Naomi, and Hannah, uncovering what loyalty, grief, and a relational faith in Christ can teach us about trusting God through life's most unexpected detours.YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/7fOsRSVrkn4FREE PDF DOWNLOADS OF followHIM QUOTE BOOKSNew Testament: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastNTBookOld Testament: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastOTBookBook of Mormon: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastBMBook WEEKLY NEWSLETTERhttps://tinyurl.com/followHIMnewsletter SOCIAL MEDIAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/followHIMpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/followhimpodcastTIMECODE0:00 - Part 1 - Professor Lori Newbold2:09 Thematic set up6:43 Come, Follow Me Manual7:24 Gratitude for unanswered prayers and Naomi9:30 The healthiness of grief11:45 Sitting with sadness14:10 Emotional pain has no painkiller16:16 Naomi's love for her daughters-in-law and hesed19:25 Ruth's declaration and Mosiah 1820:46 What kind of mother-in-law was Naomi24:51 Ruth replaced her gods with Jehovah27:52 Part-member families and “I will go”28:25 Writing dreams in pencil30:19 Ruth gleaning in the fields and Boaz33:55 Kanap–wings and the skirt35:25 The Goel–Redeemer and kinsman41:47 Leaving Jerusalem–faith and relational not outcome based43:48 “But if not” faith46:06 Ruth's request at the threshing floor51:12 Boaz keeping the Law and seeking answers to others' prayers53:56 President Christofferson on God's PLan1:01:28 Bitter and sweet–Boaz as type of Jesus Christ1:02:26 Meekness as a defining attribute1:05:36 Developing meekness1:08:12 What would Hannah want us to know?1:12: 22 End of Part 1 - Professor Lori NewboldThanks to the followHIM team:Steve & Shannon Sorensen: Cofounder, Executive Producer, SponsorDavid & Verla Sorensen: SponsorsDr. Hank Smith: Co-hostJohn Bytheway: Co-hostDavid Perry: ProducerKyle Nelson: Marketing, SponsorLisa Spice: Client Relations, Editor, Show NotesWill Stoughton: Video EditorKrystal Roberts: Translation Team, English & French Transcripts, WebsiteAriel Cuadra: Spanish TranscriptsAmelia Kabwika: Portuguese TranscriptsHeather Barlow: Communications DirectorSydney Smith: Social Media, Graphic Design "Let Zion in Her Beauty Rise" by Marshall McDonaldhttps://www.marshallmcdonaldmusic.com
Our Mothers Knew It with Maria EckersleyA Creative Study of Come, Follow MeOLD TESTAMENT [RUTH, 1 SAMUEL 1-7]“Remember This Day, in Which Ye Came Out from Egypt”April 6–12 2026ARCHIVE:Printable: “By the Wisdom of God They Remained Safe”: Stratagem & Seek Golden Plates Game“They Shall Be Shown By the Power of God”: Understanding Sealed Books , Extra Gum Wraps“Signs Shall Follow Them That Believe”: DIY SpirographCURRENT:“Call Me Mara”: Cosmic Vending Machine Bank“None of His Words Fall”: Balloon Drop GameCHAPTERS=========00:0:14 INTRO00:00:58 INSIGHTS00:47:36 QUESTIONS 100:48:53 QUESTIONS 200:50:42 QUESTIONS 300:52:58 CREATIVE OBJECT LESSONS00:56:10 OBJECT LESSON 101:07:01 OBJECT LESSON 201:05:07 WRAP UPLINKS=====WEB: https://www.gather.meckmom.comETSY: https://www.etsy.com/shop/meckmomINSTAGRAM: Instagram @meckmomlifePODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST DISCLAIMER=================================This podcast represents my own thoughts and opinions. It is not made, approved, or endorsed by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Any content or creative interpretations, implied or included are solely those of Maria Eckersley ("MeckMom LLC"), and not those of Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Great care has been made to ensure this podcast is in harmony with the overall mission of the Church. Click here to visit the official website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.