The Choice to Stay or Go

Day 2 Study on Ruth

Scripture:
“Then she arose with her daughters-in-law that she might return from the country of Moab, for she had heard in the land of Moab that the LORD had visited His people by giving them bread. Therefore she went out from the place where she was, and her two daughters-in-law with her…” — Ruth 1:6–14

Background:
After losing her husband and two sons, Naomi hears that the Lord has provided for His people in Bethlehem. She decides to return home, accompanied by her daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth. However, Naomi urges them to stay in Moab, believing their futures will be more secure there. Orpah eventually chooses to remain, but Ruth clings to Naomi, setting the stage for a powerful story of devotion and redemption.

Devotional:
Life often presents crossroads where we must choose between the familiar and the unknown. Naomi, Ruth, and Orpah faced such a moment—one leading back to Bethlehem, the other keeping them in Moab. Orpah’s choice was reasonable, but Ruth’s decision was radical. It wasn’t just about geography; it was about faith, love, and commitment.

In our walk with God, we sometimes face decisions that require great courage. Do we hold onto what seems secure, or do we follow Him into uncertainty? Ruth’s unwavering loyalty to Naomi reflected a deeper trust in God’s provision. She chose faith over fear, commitment over comfort.

Reflection:

Have you ever faced a moment where you had to choose between staying in the familiar or stepping into the unknown?
What does Ruth’s choice teach us about faith and trust?
In what ways is God calling you to trust Him beyond your comfort zone?

Prayer:
Lord, help me to trust You in moments of uncertainty. Give me the courage to follow You, even when the path ahead is unclear. Strengthen my faith, and help me to lean on Your promises. May my heart, like Ruth’s, cling to You and embrace Your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Application:
Identify an area of your life where fear is holding you back. Pray for the strength to step forward in faith, trusting that God will provide. Look for opportunities to demonstrate loyalty and devotion to those around you, just as Ruth did with Naomi.

Takeaway:
Faith calls us to step into the unknown, trusting that God’s provision is greater than our fears.