There are many wonderful examples in the scripture of faith, conversion, trust, and endurance, but few as beautiful and concise as the stories of Ruth and Naomi.
In Ruth 1:15-17 it says:
“And she {Naomi} said, Behold, thy sister-in-law is gone back unto her people, and unto her gods: return thou after thy sister-in-law.
“And Ruth said, Entreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God:
“Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the Lord do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me.”
Naomi knew that upon returning to Israel, Ruth would face trials of bigotry, poverty, and insecurity, yet Ruth was converted. Naomi recognized the deep and growing faith in her daughter-in-law, so the two remained faithful together. As the story goes, Ruth eventually marries Boaz and bears a son named Obed. Obed becomes the grandfather of David, king of Israel through whose line was born the Savior, even Jesus Christ.
Every-Day Decisions
The story of Ruth and Naomi is inspiring. Sometimes we may not realize the impact that small, every‑day decisions can have on our lives or the lives of our families. Ruth dealt with hardships not uncommon to our day; loss of a loved one, loneliness in a new place, and having to work hard to earn a living. Her daily efforts linked significantly to later events that changed the world as we know it.
Each day we should follow Ruth’s example and make decisions to be faithful followers of God. Each day we should decide to live worthy lives, and have a hope for a brighter future. Today, be confident that your life has meaning! You can and will impact the world in ways you cannot begin to imagine, but God knows, and the rewards in heaven will surely be waiting for you in your mansions on high.
