“The Lord grant you that ye may find rest, each of you in the house of her husband. Then she kissed them; and they lifted up their voice, and wept.”
Context and Background:Ruth 1:9 is part of the book of Ruth in the Old Testament. This verse takes place after the death of Naomi’s husband and two sons. Naomi, along with her daughters-in-law Ruth and Orpah, is returning from Moab to Bethlehem because she heard that the Lord had provided food for His people there.
The Lord’s Provision of Rest:In this verse, Naomi expresses her heartfelt prayer for her daughters-in-law. She asks the Lord to grant them rest in the house of their future husbands. This prayer reveals Naomi’s concern for their well-being and her desire for them to find security and peace. It highlights the importance of finding a home, a place of belonging and safety.
The Significance of Rest:Rest is not merely physical but also spiritual and emotional. It represents finding solace, comfort, and a sense of peace in the midst of life’s challenges. Naomi understands the value of rest and prays that Ruth and Orpah will find it in the context of marriage, which was a significant aspect of ancient Israelite society.
Naomi’s Genuine Love and Care:Naomi’s prayer and actions demonstrate her love and care for her daughters-in-law. She kissed them and wept together with them. This reveals the depth of their relationship and Naomi’s genuine concern for their future well-being. Naomi’s love points to the compassionate nature of God, who cares for His people and desires their well-being.
Application:Trusting God in Transition: This verse reminds us that life is filled with transitions and uncertainties. Like Ruth and Orpah, we may find ourselves facing difficult circumstances or unknown futures. However, we can find encouragement in knowing that God cares for us. We can seek His guidance, trust in His provision, and pray for His rest in the midst of our transitions.
Finding Rest in Christ:While Naomi prayed for Ruth and Orpah to find rest in the house of their husbands, as Christians, we can find ultimate rest in Jesus Christ. In Matthew 11:28-29, Jesus says, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” Our true rest is found in a personal relationship with Jesus, where we find peace, forgiveness, and eternal salvation.
In conclusion, Ruth 1:9 showcases Naomi’s prayer for her daughters-in-law to find rest and security in their future homes. It teaches us about God’s provision, genuine love, and the importance of trusting Him in times of transition. It also points us to the ultimate rest we find in Jesus Christ, who offers solace and peace for our souls.
