Journey of Faith: Embracing Change and Divine Guidance
"Wherefore she went forth out of the place where she was, and her two daughters in law with her; and they went on the way to return unto the land of Judah." - Ruth 1:7
The Book of Ruth opens with a narrative of uncertainty and profound loss, set against the backdrop of a time when the Judges ruled Israel—a period marked by chaos and moral decline. Ruth 1:7 states, "Wherefore she went forth out of the place where she was, and her two daughters in law with her; and they went on the way to return unto the land of Judah." This verse encapsulates a turning point not only in Ruth’s life but also symbolizes a pivotal moment that aligns with God’s providential plan.
In the context of Ruth's decision, we find Naomi, a widow returning to her homeland after experiencing deep sorrows. The journey begins with Naomi and her two daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth. It is a journey born out of necessity, prompted by famine and loss, yet it represents a larger theme of returning—returning to faith, community, and identity. Here we see the profound impact of returning to roots—to a land filled with God’s promises for His chosen people.
Naomi's journey back to Judah is one of obedience and faith. In times of despair, it is easy to become entrenched in bitterness and hopelessness, however, Naomi chooses to step forth from Moab, the land of her afflictions, to return to Judah, the land of promise. This departure from Moab is symbolic of leaving behind a place that no longer nurtures her soul to embrace the hope that Judah holds. It compels us to ponder: What are the 'Moabs' in our lives? What places, relationships, or mindsets do we need to leave behind?
Taking that first step into the unknown is often the hardest part of any journey. Consider the courage it took for Naomi, a woman who had lost her husband and sons, to venture forth with her daughters-in-law. Likewise, as believers, we face situations where we must muster courage to leave our comfort zones, confront our fears, and step into God’s calling, trusting in His guidance over our lives.
Naomi's journey also represents the companionship of community. Orpah and Ruth, though not obligated, choose to follow Naomi. This signifies the power of shared experiences and the importance of community support. As we move through life’s challenges, we often find that God places companions on our path to encourage and accompany us. These companions can mirror God’s love and support, reminding us we are not alone.
As the three women leave Moab, they embark on the way to return to the land of Judah, signifying a commitment to a land where God is present, and His laws govern. This journey back also presents the opportunity for reconciliation with God—a call to remember who He is and the heritage they carry as descendants of Abraham. It is a call to reclaim hope and healing in their lives.
For us today, this verse serves as a reminder that every journey of faith requires movement. We are not called to remain stagnant in our trials but to actively move toward God. The act of going forth signifies our willingness to engage with His Word, to trust in His promises, and to expect transformation. Ruth, despite her Moabite background and status, chooses to embrace Naomi’s people and their God, epitomizing faith in action.
Our life’s journey—like Naomi’s—can be filled with unexpected turns and deep sorrow, but it is also rife with opportunity for renewal and restoration. As we reflect upon God’s faithfulness in our own lives, may we be inspired to leave behind what is familiar yet damaging and to step into the new beginnings that God has prepared for us. Let us walk in faith, trusting that with each step we take in His direction, He is leading us back into the fullness of His grace and presence.
Want to reflect more on Ruth 1:7?
Continue your spiritual journey with Bible Chat — an AI-powered tool for exploring God's Word through conversation. Ask questions, discover connections, and deepen your understanding.
Get Our Apps
Ruth 1:7 Artwork
Ruth 1:7 - "Wherefore she went forth out of the place where she was, and her two daughters in law with her; and they went on the way to return unto the land of Judah."
"Wherefore she went forth out of the place where she was, and her two daughters in law with her; and they went on the way to return unto the land of Judah." - Ruth 1:7
Ruth 1:14 - "And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth clave unto her."
Ruth 1:4 - "And they took them wives of the women of Moab; the name of the one was Orpah, and the name of the other Ruth: and they dwelled there about ten years."
ruth, the loyal daughter
Ruth 1:22 - "So Naomi returned, and Ruth the Moabitess, her daughter in law, with her, which returned out of the country of Moab: and they came to Beth-lehem in the beginning of barley harvest."
Ruth 1:3 - "And Elimelech Naomi's husband died; and she was left, and her two sons."
Ruth 1:16 - "And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God:"
Ruth 3:1 - "Then Naomi her mother in law said unto her, My daughter, shall I not seek rest for thee, that it may be well with thee?"
"And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth clave unto her." - Ruth 1:14
Ruth 1:10 - "And they said unto her, Surely we will return with thee unto thy people."
Matthew 1:5 - "And Salmon begat Booz of Rachab; and Booz begat Obed of Ruth; and Obed begat Jesse;"
"And they took them wives of the women of Moab; the name of the one was Orpah, and the name of the other Ruth: and they dwelled there about ten years." - Ruth 1:4
Ruth 4:7 - "Now this was the manner in former time in Israel concerning redeeming and concerning changing, for to confirm all things; a man plucked off his shoe, and gave it to his neighbour: and this was a testimony in Israel."
Ruth 1:18 - "When she saw that she was stedfastly minded to go with her, then she left speaking unto her."
Ruth 1:5 - "And Mahlon and Chilion died also both of them; and the woman was left of her two sons and her husband."
Ruth 2:1 - "And Naomi had a kinsman of her husband's, a mighty man of wealth, of the family of Elimelech; and his name was Boaz."
Ruth 3:7 - "And when Boaz had eaten and drunk, and his heart was merry, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of corn: and she came softly, and uncovered his feet, and laid her down."
Ruth 1:20 - "And she said unto them, Call me not Naomi, call me Mara: for the Almighty hath dealt very bitterly with me."
Ruth 2:7 - "And she said, I pray you, let me glean and gather after the reapers among the sheaves: so she came, and hath continued even from the morning until now, that she tarried a little in the house."
"So Naomi returned, and Ruth the Moabitess, her daughter in law, with her, which returned out of the country of Moab: and they came to Beth-lehem in the beginning of barley harvest." - Ruth 1:22
Ruth 1:17 - "Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me."
Ruth 1:1 - "Now it came to pass in the days when the judges ruled, that there was a famine in the land. And a certain man of Beth-lehem-judah went to sojourn in the country of Moab, he, and his wife, and his two sons."
"And when Boaz had eaten and drunk, and his heart was merry, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of corn: and she came softly, and uncovered his feet, and laid her down." - Ruth 3:7
Ruth 1:11 - "And Naomi said, Turn again, my daughters: why will ye go with me? are there yet any more sons in my womb, that they may be your husbands?"
Ruth 1:9 - "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."
Ruth 1:16-17 - "But Ruth replied, "Don't urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the LORD deal with me, be it ever so severely, if even death separates you and me.""
Ruth 1:15 - "And she said, Behold, thy sister in law is gone back unto her people, and unto her gods: return thou after thy sister in law."
"And Elimelech Naomi's husband died; and she was left, and her two sons." - Ruth 1:3
Ruth 1:19 - "¶ So they two went until they came to Beth-lehem. And it came to pass, when they were come to Beth-lehem, that all the city was moved about them, and they said, Is this Naomi?"