Your STM Cross-cultural Journey With RuthSmakprov

Just when I was making progress…a plot twist. Wisdom needed! Summary: Ruth is thrust into a situation that is full of risk. Should she follow along or take initiative? And whom should she trust? Setup: Ruth has been a helpful cross-cultural servant to Naomi. She has used the resources available—her persistence, her willingness to work, and the Jewish gleaning law. God has given her steady work, protection from harm, favor with her employer and a good reputation in the community. But seasons change. The barley and wheat harvests are ending. Ruth and Naomi continue to have needs. Plus, Naomi still has her fundamental problem: no heir for the family of Elimelech. Naomi has been thinking about how Boaz has been very kind to their family. But with the harvest nearly complete, the window of opportunity seems to be closing. Perhaps a nudge is needed to find a permanent solution to their poverty—and an heir. Naomi hatches a plan. Read: Ruth chapter 3, observing that Ruth said that she would do all that Naomi directed her to do. Did she? If not, how did she depart from the plan? Then come back and tackle the questions below! Reflect: In what ways could Naomi’s plan be considered risky? How would you feel if you were in Ruth’s position? Look Back: Think of a time when you were brave. What led you to act bravely? Look Around: What risks do God’s servants take in the location where you are serving this week? How and when are they bold? Ask God & Others: How can you learn when to be bold and when to be cautious? Pray & Plan: What is one big thing that you want to ask your Redeemer for? What is one bold thing you want to consider doing when you return home? Dig Deeper: Do a word study in Scripture on “discerning.” Then, read up on the family history of Elimelech, who was of the tribe of Judah and clan of Perez. Are there parallels between Naomi’s plan and the events of Genesis 38?