The Living Bible Collection Season 1 Episode 9 Old Testament Series: Ruth, A Faithful Woman

The Living Bible Collection season 1 episode 9, titled "Old Testament Series: Ruth, A Faithful Woman," takes the audience back in time to explore the inspiring story of Ruth in the Old Testament.

The episode begins by providing viewers with an overview of the historical context of Ruth's story, which takes place during the time of the Judges in Israel. It highlights how the Israelites were living in a time of chaos and rebellion, with everyone doing what was right in their own eyes; this is an important background to understand the significance of Ruth's faithfulness to God.

Ruth, a Moabite woman, is introduced in this episode. She is an outsider in the land of Israel, having left her native land after marrying an Israelite man. However, following the death of her husband and her father-in-law, she decides to remain with her mother-in-law, Naomi, rather than returning to her own family or seeking a new husband. This decision highlights Ruth's loyalty and devotion to Naomi, but also her trust in the God of Israel.

As the story unfolds, we see that Ruth and Naomi are faced with many challenges. They are both widows, which in this time period was an extremely vulnerable position. They also have no means of support apart from gleaning grain from the fields of others. However, through Ruth's hard work and dedication, she is able to provide for herself and Naomi.

Ruth's character is further revealed when she meets Boaz, a wealthy landowner who shows favor to her as she gleans in his fields. Ruth's humility and respect for Boaz are evident in her interactions with him, despite the fact that he is a man of higher status. In addition, we see Boaz's kindness towards Ruth, as he ensures that she has enough to eat and drink, and even allows her to glean among his workers.

Throughout the episode, Ruth's faithfulness to God is highlighted, as well as her commitment to helping others. She remains loyal to Naomi, even when it would be easy for her to return to her own people, and she seeks to provide for her and herself even when it requires hard work and sacrifice. She also remains faithful to God, as seen in her words to Naomi: "Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God."

The episode concludes with Ruth and Boaz's eventual marriage, which not only provides security for Ruth and Naomi but also ensures that their family line will continue. This is significant because the lineage of Ruth and Boaz leads to the birth of King David, and ultimately, to the birth of Jesus Christ.

Overall, "Old Testament Series: Ruth, A Faithful Woman" is a powerful episode that highlights the importance of faithfulness, loyalty, and sacrifice. Ruth's story shows what God can do through an ordinary, faithful woman, and how her faithfulness has a lasting impact on the history of God's people.