Ruth 2:17
So Ruth gleaned in the field until evening. Then she threshed the barley she had gathered, and it amounted to about an ephah (Ruth 2:17, NIV).

Reading through the book of Ruth, we could see several qualities that distinguish Ruth. These qualities make her a woman to be studied and learn from. I have synthesized these
qualities into 12, but I am sure that many of you may see more.In essence, the ones that we will be looking at are not exclusive. These qualities are described below:

Respect: Throughout the book, Ruth demonstrated an attitude of respect. Her respect for her mother-in-law, God, leadership and others were demonstrated in her dealings with Naomi, the field manager and Boaz. She continued to show respect and honor for others. After her restoration in Chapter Four, she maintained the same attitude.

Hardworking: Her hard work has been mentioned earlier. She was not a lazy woman. Like the virtuous woman, she was committed to work to provide for herself and her mother-in-law.

Commitment: Ruth demonstrated commitment to God and to Naomi. Her commitment led to her departure from Moab to Bethlehem with Naomi, where she cared for her.

Kindness: She showed kindness and received kindness in return. In Moab and Bethlehem she continued to show kindness to others.

Let us assess our lives in the light of these qualities to see where we need amendments and help for improvement.

Your Turn

• Talk to God about your life and your character.

Song: Fill my cup Lord, I lift it up Lord.

Reading through the New Testament: 1 Corinthians 7