Finding God in Our Darkest Moments

Elimelech and Naomi leave Bethlehem for Moab (1:1-5)
Famine prompts Elimelech and Naomi to leave their home in Bethlehem
(meaning “house of bread”) for Moab. Then Elimelech dies. Naomi’s two
sons marry in Moab, but then they die, leaving three destitute widows.
Have you ever been overtaken by circumstances outside of your control?
Have you ever asked, “Where is God in my suffering, loss, and pain?”
“Faithfulness” endures trials.

Naomi returns home to Bethlehem (1:6-13)
Naomi returns home to Bethlehem, taking Orpah and Ruth with her for the
beginning of the trip before imploring them to return to Moab, for their
own good. Naomi argues, “You have no future with me.”
“Faithfulness” takes risks for others.
The Hebrew word ḥesed means “loving kindness, loyalty, compassion,
or covenantal faithfulness.” No single English word carries the same
meanings.

Ruth remains faithful to Naomi (1:14-18)
Orpah returns home to Moab, but Ruth remains faithful to Naomi, going
with her to Bethlehem.
“Faithfulness” serves others.

Naomi and Ruth arrive in Bethlehem (1:19-22)
Naomi and Ruth arrive home, destitute, discouraged, and depressed.
Naomi struggles with the apparent absence of God in her life.
“Faithfulness” is transparent before God.