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Ruth Bible Study – Chapter 4
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He Turns the Bitter Sweet
As I’ve come to know you all, especially through our Facebook group, I’ve witnessed a deep well of despair. Women wrestling with trials, others wondering if there will ever be an end to the darkness. In moments like those, I’m reminded that there’s more to my story than pain.
Opening our Bibles to Ruth Chapter 4, we find the birth of Obed. While this event might seem like a minor detail, it was a profound symbol of hope for Naomi, marking the restoration of her family line and her own place within God’s unfolding story. It serves to remind us that whether we’re basking in light or under a cloud of darkness, God is faithfully active in our lives.
Remember Naomi’s words in Ruth Chapter 1? “Don’t call me Naomi,” she said. “Call me Mara, because the Almighty has made my life very bitter.” We find a parallel to this expression of bitterness in Exodus Chapter 15, at the waters of Marah.
“And when they came to Marah, they could not drink the waters of Marah, for they were bitter; therefore the name of it was called Marah.” (Exodus 15:23, NIV)
The bitterness of the water at Marah was so profound that, even desperate for a drink, the Israelites could not consume it. But God intervened, instructing Moses to cast a tree into the water, which miraculously turned sweet.
This act at Marah is a profound illustration. The tree, much like the cross on which our Savior was crucified, holds the power to transform. When the message of the cross is placed at the heart of our lives, it turns the most bitter life sweet.
Naomi’s return to Bethlehem echoed that steadfast commitment to putting God first. And so, Ruth Chapter 4 is more than the end of a story; it’s an invitation to trust in God’s plan. It reassures us that His love is unyielding. His purpose is sovereign, and His power to restore knows no bounds. It’s a reminder that God’s hand of restoration is on us, and that He turns the bitter sweet.
“To bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor.” (Isaiah 61:3, NIV)
This Week’s Challenge
Consider what ‘chaff’ you might be clinging to in your life – habits or thoughts that don’t contribute to your growth. As the threshing floor was used to separate grain from chaff, seek God’s guidance in your own spiritual winnowing. Pray for wisdom to release the unnecessary and embrace that which truly sustains you.
This Week’s Bible Verse
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Week at a Glance
TUESDAY – RUTH 4:1 THE CITY GATES
Watch this week’s video at Time-Warp Wife or on Youtube (subscribe while you’re there)
Print off this week’s Bible verse at Time-Warp Wife.
Work through the section in you study guide titled: Ruth 4:1 THE CITY GATES
Check in on the community at: facebook.com/groups/biblestudies. While you are there, maybe you could drop in a friendly message wishing others a blessed week, or share a prayer for the week ahead.
WEDNESDAY – RUTH 4:2-6 THE UNNAMED RELATIVE
Work through the section in you study guide titled: RUTH 4:2-6 THE UNNAMED RELATIVE
THURSDAY – RUTH 4:7-11 MAINTAINING THE FAMILY NAME
Work through the section in you study guide titled: RUTH 4:7-11 MAINTAINING THE FAMILY NAME
Respond to at least one other person’s post in the group to encourage others.
FRIDAY – RUTH 4:12-22 THE BIRTH OF OBED
Visit Time-Warp Wife to read Darlene’s closing thoughts on Ruth Chapter 4.
(You can find this in your email or in the blog section of the website by clicking the menu)
Read the section called RUTH 4:12-22 THE BIRTH OF OBED in the study guide. Answer the questions in that section.
Share your reflections in the Facebook group.
SATURDAY – GLEANING FROM RUTH CHAPTER 4
Complete the sections at the end of Chapter 4 titled: Gleaning from Ruth Chapter 4 & Seeds of Renewal
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Hi! I’m so glad you’re here. Life can be tough, and sometimes we all need a bit of guidance and encouragement. That’s the heart behind Time-Warp Wife – a special place where women can find practical advice and spiritual nourishment whenever they need it.
Whether you’re feeling lost, struggling in your relationships, or just looking for some inspiration, I’m here for you. Through my Bible studies and devotions, I’m dedicated to helping women like you grow closer to God and cultivate fulfilling, God-centered relationships.
Take a look around, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need someone to pray for you. Together, let’s strengthen our faith and discover the joy that can only be found in Christ.
You are loved by an almighty God,
Darlene Schacht
The Time-Warp Wife
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