Study of Ruth 4:16-22

Naomi took the child, placed him on her lap, and became a nurse to him. The neighboring women said, “A son has been born to Naomi,” and they named him Obed. He became the father of Jesse, the father of David.

Now these are the generations of Perez: Perez was the father of Hezron, Hezron the father of Ram, Ram the father of Amminadab, Amminadab the father of Nahshon, Nahshon the father of Salmon, Salmon the father of Boaz, Boaz the father of Obed, Obed the father of Jesse, and Jesse the father of David.
— Ruth 4:16-22


This final passage concludes the story of Ruth and Naomi by emphasizing God’s faithfulness and the far-reaching impact of their journey. Naomi, once bitter and empty, now holds her grandson, Obed, a symbol of hope and restoration. The women of the community affirm this by saying, “A son has been born to Naomi,” recognizing the deep connection between Obed and Naomi’s redemption.

The genealogy provided at the end connects this story to God’s greater plan for Israel and the world. Obed’s lineage leads to David, Israel’s greatest king, and ultimately to Jesus, the Messiah. This underscores how God’s plans often exceed our immediate understanding, weaving ordinary lives into His extraordinary purposes.

For us, this passage serves as a reminder that God’s work in our lives is part of His greater redemptive story. It encourages us to trust Him in every season, knowing that our faithfulness and obedience can have an impact far beyond what we can imagine.


Questions

1. Naomi’s journey ends with joy and restoration as she holds her grandson. How does this encourage you to trust in God’s ability to bring renewal in your own life?

2. The genealogy shows how Ruth and Boaz’s story is part of God’s plan for the coming of Jesus. How does knowing your life is part of God’s larger story shape the way you live?

3. How can you use the blessings God has given you to bring hope and joy to others, as Naomi and Ruth did for their community?


Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the beautiful conclusion to Ruth and Naomi’s story, reminding us of Your faithfulness and the way You weave our lives into Your greater plan. Help us to trust You in every season, knowing that even our smallest acts of faith and obedience can play a role in Your redemptive story. Teach us to use the blessings You give us to bring hope and joy to others, just as You brought restoration to Naomi. Thank You for the ultimate Redeemer, Jesus, who came through this lineage to bring salvation to the world.

I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

-

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