I continue to learn from the online Bible study of Ruth. Amazing how there is always something new to be gleaned (hey, the pun was not intended but it was a good one, lol). And today was no different.
Women need one another. We truly do. That is what has stood out to me. Naomi and Ruth forged ahead in relationship and they both were blessed for their efforts. At a time in their lives, when going their separate ways would have made the most sense, these two women opted to stay together and face life.
As chapter two opens, I found Ruth’s determination to work and provide for them both to be courageous. Here she was, a younger widowed woman, going to glean in the fields of unknown people, willingly placing herself at risk in order to obtain food for them both. Naomi encourages her with words which must have infused Ruth with a determination for them both to survive.
Ruth turns to Naomi for a listening ear. She needs to discuss her work, her boss and the work environment with her mother-in-law. Naomi in return, offers her wise guidance. Within this story, I see some relational truths for every woman, no matter where they may be on their journey:
- Older women are needed. Experience and hopefully, wisdom, comes with age. We all can benefit from someone who is a little further along in our journey.
- Younger women are needed. Younger women bring an enthusiasm and energy for life. They can bring fresh perspective to life.
- We need each other. We benefit from encouraging one another and spurring one another on in life. We are not meant to live in isolation nor should we try.
Naomi and Ruth each knew their roles. As they interacted and responded to each other, within their defined roles, they brought blessing to each other. There are no signs of rivalry or begrudging one another of opportunities. Ruth worked hard in the fields, not choosing her own immediate gratification. Naomi guided her in the most honorable means to assure a future. As they encouraged one another in the plan which was unfolding, they benefited from their friendship. Their love and respect for one another deepened.
Paul, in writing to the Corinthians, gives us a wise piece of advice:
When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise. (2 Corinthians 10:12. NIV).
May older and younger women not compete or compare. Rather may they come alongside one another, much like Naomi and Ruth, so that both are blessed in ways they could not have imagined. I once read:
“Set a high value on spontaneous kindness.” (Samuel Johnson)
Spontaneous kindness.
Let’s live by it.
Today I am joining … Playdates With God and Testimony Tues. and Soli Deo Gloria and Unite and Titus 2 Tues. and Titus 2sday and Tell Me A Story and Teaching What Is Good .
I love the idea of spontaneous kindness! And you are so right, we need each other. I believe we are all older to someone…we might have been a Christian longer, a wife longer, a mother longer, alive longer. But we all have someone we can reach out to. And us older gals, can still learn a thing or two from our younger counterparts. I’m often amazed at the thoughtful questions and conclusions that I hear from younger women these days. Thanks for linking up to Testimony Tuesday, my friend! Much love!
The thought of spontaneous kindness really struck me. May kindness spring from us without our having to think about it. I look forward to Testimony Tues. each week, Holly. Always great reads to be found there!
Ruth and Naomi are good examples of courageous women who loved God and each other. The entire book of Ruth is an inspiration. Thank you for sharing with us here at “Tell Me a Story.”
I am enjoying the continuing reflections on Ruth. I know from my own life the benefits of having someone walk ahead of you and someone behind. We need others to lead us because they are farther ahead in their walk. My mom was that kind of mentor for me. I also believe that we need to do the same for others. I know that Naomi mentored Ruth but I have no doubt that Ruth in turn did the same for others. Great reflection!
I loved your insight – as we receive healthy mentoring, we also learn to give healthy mentoring. Life is such an amazing adventure. So glad to have you here!
Naomi was filled with anger much of the time, and confusion, and Ruth blessed her so much and changed her life. And Naomi changed hers. It’s nice to be loved and encouraged by those we are living with. I always love to read Ruth.
Joanne – So true that we are loved and encouraged and changed by those under our own roofs. So glad to have you share here with me!