The Book of Ruth is more than a heartwarming story. It shows strong faith and resilience. Ruth’s journey is about overcoming hard times with loyalty, hard work, and trust in God. This analysis looks at the character traits of Ruth in the Bible and how they shaped her life.
Ruth’s story reflects the promise in Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Despite many challenges, Ruth’s faith and good qualities led to a blessed and prosperous future. Her story is a powerful example of how faith and good character can bring God’s favor and fulfill His promises.
What are the character traits of Ruth in the Bible?
Ruth, the steadfast heroine from the Book of Ruth, exemplifies remarkable faith and resilience. Let’s explore the “Character Traits of Ruth in the Bible” to understand her enduring legacy.
1. Ruth was Devoted:
Ruth’s loyalty to her mother-in-law Naomi was unwavering. Even though Naomi urged her to return to her own people after her husband’s death, Ruth insisted on staying with Naomi. She left her homeland and embraced a new life in Bethlehem because she valued her relationship with Naomi above all else.
2. Ruth was Compassionate:
Ruth’s compassion shines through as she empathizes with Naomi’s grief. Having lost her own husband, Ruth understands Naomi’s sorrow, especially since Naomi lost her husband and two sons, leaving her feeling alone and grieving for her family’s future.
This shared experience of loss motivates Ruth to stay with Naomi, offering not just her presence but also emotional support during this difficult time. Her dedication to Naomi shows her caring nature and willingness to put Naomi’s needs before her own.
3. Ruth was Faithful:
Although Naomi urged Ruth and Oprah to leave, Ruth chose to stay. Her decision was motivated not only by compassion but also by her admiration for the God whom Naomi served. Ruth likely believed in the reports Naomi shared from Moab about how the Lord had shown kindness to His people by providing food for them (Ruth 1:6).
In contrast to Oprah, who returned to her people and false gods, Ruth expressed a profound commitment to Naomi and her God. She declared, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die…” (Ruth 1:16-17). Naomi recognized Ruth’s unwavering determination and stopped trying to persuade her to leave (Ruth 1:18).
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4. Ruth was a Hard Worker:
In Bethlehem, Ruth worked diligently by collecting leftover grain in the fields to provide for herself and Naomi (Ruth 2:2). Despite the physical demands and challenges, she persisted in this humble task to ensure their survival during a difficult time.
5. Ruth was Selfless:
Ruth shows she is selfless through her actions towards Naomi. Even though she has experienced loss and uncertainty herself, Ruth puts Naomi’s well-being before her own comfort or desires. She chooses to leave her homeland and go with Naomi to Bethlehem. (Ruth 1:16-17) Also, Ruth works hard in the fields to gather food for Naomi. (Ruth 2:2) Ruth’s selflessness is clear in her readiness to endure difficulty and uncertainty to take care of Naomi, showing a deep love and kindness.
6. Ruth was Humble:
Boaz, a relative of Naomi’s late husband, showed kindness to Ruth by allowing her to gather grain in his fields along with the other needy people (Ruth 2:8-9). This act of generosity and inclusion demonstrated Boaz’s compassion and Ruth’s humility in accepting help from others.
7. Ruth was Focused:
Ruth demonstrated a remarkable focus on her goal of staying with Naomi and supporting her. One example of her focused determination is seen when she diligently gleaned in the field.
In Ruth 2:7, Boaz’s servant testifies to Boaz about Ruth’s steadfastness, saying, “She has been on her feet from early this morning till now, except for a short rest in the shelter.” This scripture illustrates Ruth’s unwavering dedication and singular focus on her mission to care for Naomi, showing her disciplined work ethic and commitment despite challenging circumstances.
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8. Ruth was Grateful:
Ruth expressed heartfelt gratitude to Boaz for his kindness and wondered why he showed such favor to her, recognizing her status as a foreigner in Bethlehem (Ruth 2:10-13). Her humility and appreciation revealed her respectful attitude towards Boaz and his willingness to provide for her.
9. Ruth was Obedient:
Ruth obediently followed Naomi’s instructions on how to approach Boaz and request his protection and care as a close relative (Ruth 3:1-5). Her willingness to trust Naomi’s guidance and take initiative in their uncertain circumstances reflected her loyalty and determination.
10. Ruth was Courageous:
Ruth demonstrated courage by leaving her homeland in Moab to accompany Naomi to a new land, where she faced unknown challenges and uncertainties (Ruth 1:16-17).
Her bravery continued as she followed Naomi’s plan to approach Boaz, a man of influence, despite potential risks (Ruth 3:5). Naomi instructed Ruth to go to Boaz at the threshing floor and uncover his feet as a gesture of seeking his protection and care (Ruth 3:5). This action was unconventional and carried potential risks, including how Boaz might perceive her intentions. Despite these uncertainties, Ruth trusted Naomi’s guidance and took the courageous step.
11. Ruth was Blessed:
Boaz agreed to marry Ruth and redeem her, securing their future and continuing Naomi’s family line (Ruth 4:9-13). This act of redemption and marriage brought blessings upon Ruth and Naomi, with Ruth eventually giving birth to Obed, who became the grandfather of King David (Ruth 4:17-22). God’s favor and providence were evident in the outcome of Ruth’s faithful journey.
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12. Ruth was Resilient:
Ruth demonstrated remarkable resilience, the ability to recover quickly from difficulties or setbacks. Despite losing her husband and leaving her homeland, she remained steadfast and determined to support Naomi. Her resilience enabled her to endure challenges in a foreign land and overcome obstacles, ultimately leading to blessings and a secure future. Ruth’s ability to stay strong and keep going in difficult circumstances highlights her inner strength and unwavering faith.
Conclusion
The character traits of Ruth in the Bible showcase her unwavering devotion to Naomi, deep compassion, steadfast faith, and hardworking nature. Her selflessness, humility, focus, gratitude, obedience, courage, and resilience highlight her exceptional character.
