Ruth 4:13-22
Better is the end of a thing than its beginning, and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit (Ecclesiastes 7:8).

The Bible says, “Better is the end of a thing than its beginning, and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit”(Ecclesiastes 7:8). Indeed, “When the LORD turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that dream” (Psalm 126:1). Only God could have brought a beautiful ending to the story of Naomi and Ruth.

Looking back at chapter one, all hope was lost but in the end God showed up and restored this family and gave them a new hope and future. The story of Ruth and Naomi teaches many lessons.  Some of these include:

1. Holding on to hope no matter what we are going through.
2. Our past and the present circumstances do not determine our future. Naomi thought that God had made her life bitter but God gave her a future full of joy and laughter.
3. We need the favor of God. His favor can change our circumstances.
4. It takes favor to move to the next level.
5. God is still in the business of ordering steps. He did for Ruth. He can do it for us.
6. God is at work in our lives. Therefore, we need to take Romans 8:28 seriously. He may not cause the negative situation but He will work all things together for our good. God will not leave us without helper and support.

Your Turn

• Thank God for the insights and revelations we have received from studying this book.
• Pray that your life will bear fruits of the truth that you have learned from the different characters in the book.

Song: Majesty. Worship His majesty.

Reading through the New Testament: Galatians 3