Orpah’s name means “stiff-necked or skull.” The decision Orpah made to stay in Moab reflected the inflexible, unyielding character described by her name and resulted in her death in obscurity—she was never heard of again. Such is the end of stiff-necked people. It is better to have a harnessed heart than a stiff neck.
Ruth’s name means “friend.” She proved her friendship to Naomi and to God by her willingness to leave all she held dear to follow Naomi and serve her God. This beauty of character is to be revealed throughout the rest of the narrative as Ruth gains a reputation in the whole city of Bethlehem-Judah as a virtuous woman.
Ruth’s treatise was a sevenfold declaration that revealed her heart’s determination. The key words in Ruth’s treatise were “I will.” These two words expressed the intent of her heart and formed the basis of her decision. As we observe Orpah’s tearful decision not to follow Naomi, we understand that Ruth’s choice was not based on emotion or sentiment, but on a decision of her will.
Decision itself is exhilarating and refreshing. Some people never know the joys and delights of walking with God because they do not choose to make decisions in favor of God, His Word and His ways. Decisive people are seldom the subject of continued despair; they are steadfastly minded. As we decide to follow God’s will, our decision will have wonderful results in our lives, as Ruth’s did.
The treatise of “I wills” made by Ruth consisted of seven elements: “Whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge; thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: 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 1:16-17, KJV).
This last “I will,” though not explicitly expressed, is understood, for Ruth was declaring in essence, “I will seal this treatise with a covenant. The Lord do so to me and more also if ought but death part thee and me.”
Ruth’s resolve is a classic for all of literature. As an expression of love and loyalty, these words cannot be surpassed. Here is supreme devotion; here is love to the uttermost, not only passionately expressed, but as history declares, determinedly fulfilled. The beauty of its form and the utter devotion of a genuine and self-conquering love has made Ruth’s vow one that never shall be forgotten. The secret of such love and loyalty is kinship in the matters of the soul and of eternity. There can be no true love, no lasting loyalty, without this kinship of soul and spirit.
Ruth’s vow has stamped itself indelibly on the heart of the church. Believers throughout history have followed her example in choosing to live, and die, for God alone. How many have gained their courage to face martyrdom from reading the testimony of Ruth!
Like Ruth, we should resolve to pursue God to the end, casting our lot with the separated, sanctified people of God, cleaving to the eternal God of the Bible. Like Ruth we should enter God’s field and be willing to serve. Like Ruth, we should abandon ourselves to our glorious, heavenly “Boaz,” and stay at His feet until morning.
Adapted from the book From Our Hearts to Yours, copyright 2008, published by Charisma House. This book is a compilation of articles written by strong women of God that will cause you to see how much God really loves you, and empowers you to become a better mother, wife, woman and friend. To order a copy click on this link:
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