Canaan Fellowship

Overcoming Bitterness: A Study of Naomi and Ruth

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Canaan Fellowship
Canaan Fellowship
Overcoming Bitterness: A Study of Naomi and Ruth
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Bill Teubl reflects on the book of Ruth, drawing lessons on loving God and loving others. He contrasts the bitterness of Naomi with the faithful love of Ruth, using their story to illustrate how bitterness inhibits our ability to perceive and receive God’s love. The sermon culminates in the redemption provided by Boaz, a picture of Christ, and the restoration that comes through trusting in God’s work.

  • [02:08] The book of Ruth is read and examined to learn about loving God and loving neighbor, focusing on the first two chapters.
  • [03:29] Naomi and Ruth are presented as a contrast; both are in a difficult situation, but Naomi becomes bitter towards God, while Ruth remains faithful.
  • [05:43] Bitterness suppresses our perception of God’s love and quenches the Spirit’s work in our hearts, preventing us from loving God and others in return.
  • [06:18] Ruth makes a remarkable statement of faith, declaring that Naomi’s God will be her God and Naomi’s people will be her people, which is a picture of salvation.
  • [07:27] Ruth goes out to glean not just for food, but to find favor, showing she seeks a relational blessing beyond mere sustenance.
  • [08:24] Boaz is introduced as the kinsman redeemer, a picture of Christ, who extends favor and protection to Ruth.
  • [09:46] Naomi begins to relinquish her bitterness and, motivated by love, seeks “rest” for Ruth—a home, family, and future security—instead of settling for mere survival.
  • [15:48] Receiving God’s blessings often requires specific steps of faith and obedience; good gifts can be rejected by an unwillingness to do what is required to receive them.
  • [17:17] We must approach Jesus with the understanding that His heart is always glad and merry towards us; His love is not based on our performance but on His choice.
  • [23:38] God can redeem our messy histories and family lines, as seen in the lineage of Peres and the blessing pronounced on Boaz and Ruth.
  • [24:15] The women bless Naomi, declaring that Ruth’s love for her is more valuable than seven sons, and that God has not left her without a redeemer to restore her life.
  • [26:48] In an addendum, Bill highlights that while we are called to wait and rest in the Lord, God Himself does not rest; this is a comfort, as He is always at work to bring about His purposes.

Scripture References

  • Ruth
  • Romans 5:5
  • Psalm 121:4

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