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Ruth 1:19-22

 Age-progression technology helps investigators solve crimes and find missing persons.
This innovative software has also been used to predict what individuals will look like in the future, modelling the effects of lifestyle habits such as drinking, smoking, diet, exercise and stress. 
If this was applied to Naomi, this software would show that the painful trials of her life have taken their toll on her, making her look older than she really is... 


In Ruth 1:19, what do the people in Bethlehem ask and why?


There are many examples of people being renamed in the bible.
This change of name tends to mark out an extreme change in circumstances.

What does the name 'Naomi' mean?

What does the name 'Mara' mean?

What was the meaning of Naomi's wish to change her name?


In verses 20-21, is Naomi wrong to accuse God like that?
Does she sin in this moment?
Why or why not?

Why would you agree or disagree that God invites us to direct our frustrations in life towards Him? 


[Activity] Read Job 19:6 and Psalm 22:1-2, Psalm 38:1-3, Psalm 42:9-10, Psalm 90:7 and Psalm 102:10... How do both Job and the Psalmists sound very similar to Naomi?


These scriptures suggest that in our suffering, God invites us to direct our heartfelt disappointment and even anger towards Him.


In Ruth 1:22 how does this verse mark a change in the storyline's direction?


Who in your life is like Ruth, loyal to you in your painful trials?

How can you be like Ruth to someone else in their time of need and distress?

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