From Brokenness to Redemption
A Study Guide for Trusting God’s Providence Through Hard Times
1. Introduction: What Is Ruth About and Why Does It Matter?
Set in the time of the judges, when “everyone did what was right in his own eyes” (Judges 21:25).
Ruth is a Moabite widow who chooses to follow her Jewish mother-in-law, Naomi, back to Bethlehem.
The book reveals how God works behind the scenes to redeem broken stories.
A key figure, Boaz, becomes a picture of Christ as a kinsman-redeemer.
Reflection: Ruth reminds us that God is always at work—even when life feels empty and uncertain.
2. Chapter 1: Loss, Loyalty, and a New Beginning
Naomi loses her husband and sons in Moab.
Ruth refuses to abandon her and declares, “Your people will be my people, and your God my God.” (1:16)
They return to Bethlehem at the start of the barley harvest.
Takeaway: True faith clings even when it costs. Ruth’s loyalty was not just to Naomi, but to God’s covenant.
3. Chapter 2: Provision in the Fields
Ruth gleans in the fields to provide for Naomi.
She “just so happens” to land in the field of Boaz, a relative of Naomi’s late husband.
Boaz protects and blesses her because of her faithfulness.
Lesson: What seems like coincidence is often God’s providence. He honors humility, kindness, and obedience.
4. Chapter 3: A Bold Act of Trust
Naomi instructs Ruth to approach Boaz at the threshing floor, requesting him to act as her kinsman-redeemer.
Ruth’s request is bold and culturally significant—it’s not scandalous, but sacred.
Boaz responds with honor, praising Ruth’s character and promising to resolve things.
Truth: God blesses courage and righteousness. Ruth took a risk—not out of desperation, but out of faith.
5. Chapter 4: Redemption and Restoration
Boaz follows the proper legal process to redeem Ruth and marry her.
They have a son, Obed, who becomes the grandfather of King David.
The book ends with joy and legacy.
Encouragement: God can take a story that begins in sorrow and end it in glory. Ruth becomes part of the lineage of Jesus.
6. Key Verses to Memorize or Meditate On
Ruth 1:16 – “Where you go I will go… your people shall be my people, and your God my God.”
Ruth 2:12 – “May the Lord reward you… under whose wings you have come to take refuge.”
Ruth 3:11 – “All my fellow townsmen know that you are a worthy woman.”
Ruth 4:14 – “Blessed be the Lord… who has not left you this day without a redeemer.”
Ruth 4:17 – “A son has been born to Naomi… they named him Obed.”
7. Questions for Discussion or Journaling
What does Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi say about godly commitment?
How have you seen God’s providence show up in small or unexpected ways?
What does Boaz’s behavior teach us about godly manhood and integrity?
How is Ruth’s story a picture of the gospel?
What does it mean to be “redeemed,” and how does that relate to our faith in Christ?
How can we live faithfully when we don’t understand what God is doing?