“Then she arose with her daughters in law, that she might return from the country of Moab: for she had heard in the country of Moab how that the Lord had visited his people in giving them bread.”
This verse is part of the narrative in the book of Ruth, which tells the story of a Moabite woman named Ruth who becomes the great-grandmother of King David. Ruth 1:6 provides insight into the circumstances that prompted Ruth’s mother-in-law, Naomi, to return from the land of Moab to her homeland of Bethlehem.
Context:The book of Ruth opens with the account of a severe famine in the land of Israel. In response, a man named Elimelech, along with his wife Naomi and their two sons, leaves Bethlehem to seek refuge in Moab. Unfortunately, Elimelech passes away, leaving Naomi a widow with her two sons. The sons later marry Moabite women named Orpah and Ruth.
Ruth’s Decision:After living in Moab for about ten years, both of Naomi’s sons also die, leaving her alone with her daughters-in-law. When Naomi hears that the famine in Bethlehem has come to an end and that God has blessed His people with bread, she decides to return to her homeland.
God’s Provision:The key aspect of Ruth 1:6 is that Naomi had heard that the Lord had visited His people in Bethlehem and provided them with bread. This implies that God’s intervention had brought an end to the famine, and there was now sustenance available in the land of Judah. Naomi’s decision to return to Bethlehem was motivated by the news of God’s provision and blessing.
God’s Faithfulness:Through this verse, we see God’s faithfulness in caring for His people, even in times of hardship. The famine was a difficult time for the people of Bethlehem, but God had not abandoned them. His provision of bread demonstrates His concern for His people and His ability to meet their needs.
Overall, Ruth 1:6 highlights the pivotal moment when Naomi decides to return to Bethlehem, encouraged by the news of God’s provision and blessing. This verse reminds us of God’s faithfulness and His ability to provide for His people even in challenging circumstances.
