Ruth’s story is one of the most moving and inspiring stories in the Old Testament. She is a Moabite woman who, after the death of her husband, chooses to follow her mother-in-law Naomi to Israel, even though she knows that this would mean facing many difficulties, since she was a foreigner. Upon arriving in Israel, Ruth begins to work as a harvester in a barley field belonging to a man named Boaz. It is in this context that we can see her integrity and honesty in action.
In the book of Ruth, we read that Ruth “said to Naomi, Let me go into the field, and I will gather ears after him in whose eyes I find favor. And she said unto her, Go, my daughter” (Ruth 2:2). This attitude demonstrates Ruth’s determination to help herself and her mother-in-law. She didn’t wait for things to happen, but yes, she went after a job opportunity. Furthermore, she expresses her humility by saying that she would pick ears of corn after anyone in whose eyes she finds favor, meaning that she was not asking for favors, but rather working honestly.
As she began to work in Boaz’s field, he noticed her honesty and integrity and said, “May the LORD reward you for what you have done, and may you receive a full reward from the LORD God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to seek refuge” (Ruth 2:12). Ruth’s honesty is also demonstrated when she refuses to hide her intentions towards Boaz. Instead, she asks him to protect her as a close relative (Ruth 3:9).
Ruth’s story teaches us that integrity and honesty are fundamental values for everyone. These traits are even more important when it comes to our interpersonal relationships, including marriage and friendship. When we are honest and with integrity, we gain the trust of others and are able to build stronger, healthier relationships.
As Christians, integrity and honesty are values that should be part of our everyday lives. The Bible teaches us that “the LORD abhors a deceitful man, but a righteous person is pleasing to him” (Proverbs 12:22). Therefore, we must always seek to act with integrity and honesty in all areas of our lives, following Ruth’s example and trusting God to guide us at all times.
Aprofunde seus conhecimentos
8. What are the next stages of God’s Revelation?
461. How are parents to educate their children in the Christian faith?
440. Why does the Decalogue enjoin serious obligations?
125. What is the “hell” into which Jesus descended?
191. How do they participate in the kingly office?
Acesse nossos estudos biblicos:
Jacob’s Wrestle with God: What is the significance of this story for us today?
What can we learn about the theology of suffering from the story of Job described in Job 1:1-22?
The Beatitudes: Understanding Their Meaning and Importance (Matthew 5:3-11)
What is the criticism against relying on military force instead of God in Amos 2:14-16?
