Thank you for accessing AfterWords, the Charter Oak Church post-Sunday devotional for small group discussion and personal study.

--

Gratitude + Challenge
  • Where have you seen God at work this past week?
  • Where have you struggled that we can be praying for you?
Read the Text
  • Read Ruth 1 from two different translations.
Reflect
  • Do you think Elimelech's decision to move his family to Moab was a lack of faith in God's provision or a reasonable survival choice? Why or why not?

  • What lessons can we learn about making decisions during difficult times based on the experiences of Naomi, Elimelech, Ruth, and Orpah?

  • Have you ever made a significant life decision without first seeking God's will or wise counsel? What was the outcome?

  • Ruth’s commitment to Naomi in verses 16-17 is a powerful declaration. What was she giving up by making this choice, and what does it teach us about  covenantal loyalty and love?

  • Why do you think Orpah chose to return to Moab while Ruth stayed with Naomi? What do their different choices reveal about their faith and priorities?
Application
  • How can Ruth's pledge to Naomi (Ruth 1:16-17) apply to your commitment  to people in your life and our church?