Debbie Swindell – An Everyday Theologian
Read wisely. Study accurately. Think deeply. Live biblically.
In these four little chapters of the book of Ruth, we would do well to take a step back and view the storyline of love and redemption in the whole of the Bible. Moses tells of God's redeeming love for his people in Deuteronomy chapters four and seven. And then, in the New Testament, Paul... Continue Reading →
In the intro post to the Ruth series, we began to examine the setting, plot, and characters. In Ruth chapter two, the storyline continues as we are introduced to another character, a good man named Boaz. He was described as a worthy man (2:1): a man of substance (both materially and morally). Boaz was single,... Continue Reading →
In an earlier post, we began to look at the character of Boaz. A man of both moral standing and material wealth, he is a man who is merciful and admirable who leads his workers and does justly for Ruth. In Ruth 2:20 we will also learn that Boaz is a redeemer. In the details... Continue Reading →
God works to teach lessons about Himself and it's in the second chapter of Ruth that we are introduced to a light in the darkness. In the previous chapter, the narrative dealt primarily with Naomi, Orpah, and Ruth. We now move to the community as a whole, Bethlehem and our introduction to Boaz (2:1). Darkness... Continue Reading →
"God is always doing 10,000 things in your life, and you may be aware of three of them." - John Piper The two of them traveled until they came to Bethlehem. When they entered Bethlehem, the whole town was excited about their arrival, and the local women exclaimed, “Can this be Naomi?” “Don’t call me... Continue Reading →
When things don't work out like we thought, there can be a sudden turn in our path catching us completely by surprise. Have you ever faced a crossroads in life? Ruth certainly did. In 1:6-18, a geographical and spiritual turning point exists. A key word in the study of Ruth is “return.” This Hebrew word... Continue Reading →
The Old Testament is full of stories about God using great leaders like David and Moses. However, in the pages of Ruth, we read a story where God intervenes in the lives of two women. Throughout scripture, God used the lives of ordinary people to achieve His extraordinary purposes. Ruth is no different. Then she... Continue Reading →
The book of Ruth is a beautiful little story right in the middle of a difficult time, and we see an amazing story of Ruth, her example, and what the love of God is like. How we behave in adversity and challenges depends entirely on who the God is we say we believe in. Ruth... Continue Reading →
What woman doesn't love the dynamics of a love story? Whether a love story is read or watched, a good romance reveals setting and plot with most emphasis on characters. Well-written classics include the unlikely tales of Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, Wuthering Heights. And then, there are timeless tales set to stage: Casablanca,... Continue Reading →
"Follow your heart" they say. "Do what feels right to you" they tell us. The voices of our society assure us our feelings rule. We are awesome just the way we are because we are number one. Do you recognize individualism, pride, or idolatry? Are you willing to admit we get caught up in the... Continue Reading →
As women... We have God-given potential to make a profound impact on church and family. If we are to leave a legacy of Christian faith, it is crucial we gain, retain, and share biblical knowledge for the benefit of those individuals we know and love. Do you recognize your spiritual influence, where it lies and possibilities... Continue Reading →
In previous posts for this series, we have explored rest in relation to trusting God, imaging God, and obeying God. In this final post, we consider what it looks like to rest in the midst of difficulties because as Christians, we are able to have a satisfied spirit while resting in Jesus. How do we... Continue Reading →
Debbie Swindell - An Everyday Theologian 