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Ruth 1:1-2

 The story of Ruth is about how God works in and through the ordinary circumstances of life. There aren't any spectacular signs and wonders to showcase in this book. The characters and story plotlines are common... about ordinary people in everyday settings, struggling with regular life issues... 

But God's resolute (although uncredited or 'invisible') hand is directing each scene and every character. And wherever and whenever God works, it is ALWAYS extraordinary, miraculous, and divine!


[Read Ruth 1:1-2]


Who are we introduced to in the opening verses?
What are we told about them?

What difficult decision does Elimelek have to make?
What are the pros and cons for staying and for going?

If you had to put food on the table, would you decide differently from Elimelek?
What are some important considerations that would affect your decision?

[Activity] Read Deuteronomy 11:16-17, Leviticus 26:18-20, and Amos 4:6-9.
What are we told in all three examples?

Read ahead, to Ruth 1:6, how does this verse confirm those verses?


'Elimelek' means "God is my king".
You would assume that someone with that name would respond to this famine with repentance... not relocation.
What does Elimelek's response tell us about who he is?


'Bethlehem' means "House of bread" whereas 'Moab' is referred to, in Psalm 108:9, as God's "washbasin"... where residue grime and dirt are found.
Elimelek leaves the 'bread' for the place of 'dirt'.

Looking back over your life, can you see times when you have made a similar decision?
What do you need to do to come back to the 'bread' today?

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