Ruth

By He Reads Truth

This Is the Old Testament is part of a twelve-week thematic overview of the entire Bible. Each day we’ll read a thematic selection from a different book of the Bible, along with supplemental passages that show how the theme of that day’s main reading is found throughout Scripture. We’ll also read a brief summary of each book and a reflection on how the book fits into the larger story of Scripture. This week, we move from the Pentateuch into the second section of the Old Testament, the Historical Books.

What Is Ruth? The book of Ruth tells the story of a widowed Moabite woman named Ruth whose marriage to Boaz brought hope and a legacy to both herself and her widowed Israelite mother-in-law.

How Ruth Fits Into the Story: Ruth’s covenantal faithfulness to Naomi and to God showed that those who were not born as Israelites could, by faith, still become one of God’s people (Is 56:3–7). The book of Ruth demonstrates how the Lord shows His covenant faithfulness to His people, often in surprising ways. God’s provision for Ruth, an ancestor of David and Jesus, was also a provision for His people’s need for a king.

Reflection Questions:
1. How have you seen God meet your needs? How does God’s provision for you equip you to meet the needs of others?
2. How does today’s reading shape your understanding of the story of redemption?

Take time to reflect on your responses and share what you are learning with others in the community in the comments.