Study of Ruth 1:19-22

So the two of them continued on their journey until they came to Bethlehem. When they entered Bethlehem, the whole city was stirred because of them, and the women of the city exclaimed, “Can this be Naomi?”

“Do not call me Naomi,” she replied. “Call me Mara, because the Almighty has dealt quite bitterly with me. I went away full, but the Lord has brought me back empty. Why call me Naomi? After all, the Lord has testified against me, and the Almighty has afflicted me.”

So Naomi returned from the land of Moab with her daughter-in-law Ruth the Moabitess. They arrived in Bethlehem at the beginning of the barley harvest.
— Ruth 1:19-22


Naomi and Ruth’s arrival in Bethlehem stirs the community, as Naomi’s return brings both recognition and shock. Naomi openly expresses her grief, bitterness, and sense of loss, renaming herself Mara, which means “bitter,” to reflect her feelings. She acknowledges God’s sovereignty but struggles to see hope in her circumstances.

This passage reveals the depth of Naomi’s sorrow, but it also subtly foreshadows the turning point in her story. Their arrival coincides with the beginning of the barley harvest, a sign of God’s provision and the hope of renewal. While Naomi cannot yet see it, God is working to redeem her situation.

In our lives, this passage reminds us that it is okay to be honest with God about our pain and struggles. Naomi’s raw emotions show us that God can handle our honesty. It also encourages us to trust in God’s plans, even when we feel lost, knowing that He often brings renewal and restoration in ways we cannot yet imagine.


Questions

1. Naomi expressed her bitterness and grief openly. How do you handle difficult emotions in your relationship with God?

2. The barley harvest is a small detail that hints at the hope of renewal. How can we remain attentive to signs of God’s provision, even during difficult seasons?

3. How might Naomi’s story encourage us to trust God’s plan, even when we cannot see the outcome?


Prayer

Almighty God,

Naomi’s grief reminds us that life can feel bitter and empty at times, but her story also teaches us that You are always at work, even in our pain. Help us to be honest with You about our struggles and to trust in Your plans, even when we cannot see the way forward. Open our eyes to signs of Your provision and renewal, and fill us with hope for the future You are preparing.

It is in Jesus’ name that I pray. Amen.

-

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