LESSON 680: RUTH’S PIETY AND HARD WORK MEMORY VERSE: ”THE LORD recompense thy work, and a full reward be given thee of the LORD God of Israel, under whose wings thou art come to trust” (Ruth 2:12) TEXT: Ruth 2:1-23

SUMMARY (1) From our last study, we learnt the following lessons: Adversity will not last for ever if we trust God and wait patiently for Him. We must be enthusiastic, urgent, explicit and compelling as we share the gospel. Naomi returned despite her losses. You are never too bad to return to God. There are costs to bear as we serve God: we must remain firm in our decision. There is always reason to thank God in every situation if we remain in faith. The study of today touches on three points: Ruth’s reaction to challenges A rich man’s response to the less privileged Ruth’s report and steadfastness

SUMMARY (2) Ruth’s reaction to challenges (Ruth 2:1-3,7): Ruth determined to follow the God of Naomi though she had lost everything. Ruth demonstrated respect, obedience and honesty to her mother-in-law. She received and kept the instructions given to her by her mother-in-law A rich man’s response to the less privileged (Ruth 2:4-16): Boaz was wealthy; yet he maintained a cordial relationship with his workers. Unlike the worldly wealthy, Boaz was humble, loving and caring. What about you? Ruth worked hard despite her condition. She did not sit down in self-pity! Ruth’s report and steadfastness (Ruth 2:17-23): Ruth was consistent in her responses, character, hard work and devotion. She gave her mother-in-law feedback as soon as she returned from the farm. She was diligent enough to ask of the owner of the plantation where she gleaned.

DISCUSSION

QUESTION 1 Mention some reactions that people put up in times of adversity: Ruth 1:21 Exodus 16:11,12 1 Samuel 27:1 Genesis 30:1

QUESTION 2 What lessons can we learn from Boaz’s nobility and humility? Ruth 2:4 Ephesian 6:9 Deut. 15:7,8 1 Timothy 6:17,19

QUESTION 3 Mention some condemnable ways the less privileged are treated in our society: Deut 24:17 Isaiah 10:1,2 Acts 6:1

QUESTION 4 From Boaz’s and Naomi’s instructions to Ruth, how can a Christian pilgrim remain consistent to the end? Hebrews 3:12 1 Timothy 4:1 Hebrews 12:1,2 Romans 12:11

CONCLUSION In the time of adversity, we should remain steadfast and consistent. We should use our position of power or wealth to help the less privileged. A Christian employer should maintain a free and fearless atmosphere with his or her employees. Adversity is no reason to sit down in self-pity; we should arise and labour. Our change will come as we trust God and work, no matter how low it is. A believer should give adequate report of his activities. He should also show concern for the welfare of his/her employer.