Examples of Kindness in the Book of Ruth
Examples of Kindness in the Book of Ruth
The story of Ruth is a favourite Bible story for many. It brings light in dark times due to its many examples of kindness shown by the three main characters, Naomi, Ruth and Boaz. But more than that, it also shows examples of God’s loving kindness as God’s laws for the protection of the vulnerable are carried out.
The Book of Ruth
If you are reading through the Bible you will find the Book of Ruth to be a breath of fresh air, a glimmer of hope, after reading through the dark and violent stories in Judges. The events in Ruth happened during this period in the history of Israel when the people abandoned God and did what they liked (Judges 2:11-12).
But the events, behaviours and beliefs described in the Book of Ruth stand in stark contrast to this evil. Instead of doing what they liked, they focused on the needs of others; and instead of abandoning God and turning to foreign gods, they followed his ways which eventually led to great blessings for them and the whole of Israel.
Bible Reading Plan on Examples of Kindness: The Book of Ruth
This Bible Reading Plan takes us through the Book of Ruth in 30 days, with some additional readings to help set the scene, explain the background or encourage us in our own walk with kindness. I have made all my Bible Reading plans for 30 days so they should take about a month to complete, but they are undated so you can start them whenever you want. Use the form below to download the Examples of Kindness: 30 Days with Ruth Bible Reading Plan.
Unless otherwise stated the Scripture References are taken from the English Standard Version, with links to biblegateway.com. While referring to lots of different versions in my study, I generally use the ESV Women’s Study Bible.
Examples of Kindness in Hard Times
At the beginning of the Book of Ruth, we see that Naomi has gone through some hard times. She has suffered a famine, moved to another country, lost her husband and her sons. But although she tells her friends this has made her bitter, it does not stop her from being kind to others. She shows kindness to her daughters-in-law when she releases them from any obligation towards her.
Naomi also shows kindness toward Ruth by giving her advice to make sure she is safe and will be taken care of in the future.
Ruth also shows kindness towards Naomi by staying with her and sharing food with her, rather than going to find a better life elsewhere.
Boaz tells Ruth that he has heard about the kindness she has shown Naomi:
But Boaz answered her, “All that you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband has been fully told to me, and how you left your father and mother and your native land and came to a people that you did not know before. The Lord repay you for what you have done, and a full reward be given you by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge!” Ruth 2:11-12
During difficult times we can still show kindness toward others and offer support and friendship to those who may be struggling. The beautiful thing we see in the story of Ruth is that Naomi focused on the needs of Ruth and Ruth focused on the needs of Naomi, and both were taken care of.
Further Reading: Bible Verses on Trying Times
Examples of Kindness to the Vulnerable
In chapter two we are introduced to a new character, Boaz. He has heard good reports about how Ruth, a young widow, is showing kindness to her mother-in-law, and Boaz chooses to show kindness towards Ruth.
This was not normal practice in the Middle East at this time. Widows were often abandoned and left desolate if they couldn’t look after themselves. But this is not God’s way. He made provisions in his word for the care of the helpless, including widows and foreigners, like Ruth.
“When you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not reap your field right up to its edge, neither shall you gather the gleanings after your harvest. And you shall not strip your vineyard bare, neither shall you gather the fallen grapes of your vineyard. You shall leave them for the poor and for the sojourner: I am the Lord your God.” Leviticus 19:9-10
Examples of Kindness in Action
In the Book of Ruth we see Ruth and Boaz taking the initiative to show kindness in their actions.
- Ruth worked in the fields to get food for Naomi
- Boaz protected Ruth from harm and made sure all the necessary steps had been taken in order for him to ‘redeem’ her and marry her.
God has also taken the initiative in showing kindness towards us through his actions.
“But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel:
“Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.” Isaiah 43:1
Further Reading on Redemption: 5 Things that happen after God sets us free
Examples of Kindness in Good Times
We often think of kindness as something to be offered when someone is struggling, but what about the good times?
Naomi’s friends show kindness towards her at the birth of Ruth and Boaz’s son. They offer blessings to her and declare the child to be her family.
The story that started with so much tragedy has a happy ending, and the kindness continues.
Why is kindness important?
Let’s finish with some more Bible verses about kindness. What does the Bible tell us about why it is important to be kind?
- Kindness honors God: ‘Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him.’ Proverbs 14:31
- Christ has shown us an example of kindness: ‘Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.’ Ephesians 4:32
- Kindness is part of the fruit of the Spirit: ‘But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.’ Galatians 5:22-23
- Kindness is beneficial to us: ‘A man who is kind benefits himself, but a cruel man hurts himself.’ Proverbs 11:17
- Acts of kindness will be remembered and repaid: And David said, “I will deal kindly with Hanun the son of Nahash, for his father dealt kindly with me.” 1 Chron 19:2
- Kindness is a requirement for God’s chosen people: ‘Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.’ Colossians 3:12
- Kindness will be returned: ‘Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor.’ Proverbs 21:21
I pray that as you read through the Examples of Kindness: 30 Days with Ruth Bible Reading Plan, you will be encouraged by the stories of kindness, strengthened in the knowledge of God’s kindness, and inspired to show kindness to others.
