Naomi & Ruth: Ostracized Outcasts

What if your father and two sons both died, leaving you with your two daughter-in-laws to support? 

This happened to Naomi during a time when women without a husband or sons could not provide for themselves or own land. Naomi, Ruth, and Orpah were facing a terribly uncertain time for sure. They had some distant relatives in a far away land, so Naomi decided it was time to travel from Moab to Bethlehem in Judah.

Naomi told both Ruth and Orpah of her plan to leave their homeland alone. While Orpah accepted this, Ruth refused to stay behind. She steadfastly decided to accompany Naomi on her journey knowing that their arrival was anything but secure. While they would be back near family, they would likely have to beg for food and shelter. 

Was God’s provision evident when all three men died? I’m sure there were doubts and fears during that period and when they left Moab for a foreign land. Upon arrival, Ruth met Boaz, who was a relative of Naomi’s late husband while searching for grain left behind after Boaz’s field had been cleared by workers. Long story short, Boaz ended up marrying Ruth who provided for her and Naomi.

What has God already provided for that we cannot yet see? Are we willing to humble ourselves until God delivers or provides for us?