Ruth Was Tempted Again

“And she said, ‘Look, your sister-in-law has gone back to her people and to her gods; return after your sister-in-law.’” V. 15.

Faithful Naomi was now ready to be separated from her last earthly support. “Return after your sister-in-law.” The temptation was now twice as hard for Ruth. What should she do? There was a conflict going on in her soul’s innermost being—for and against. She had all her loved ones and acquaintances in Moab, and now Orpah had also returned. On the other hand, there was the God of Israel, the land of Judah, and this faithful guide in the Spirit, Naomi. Now it would become evident how diligent Naomi had been in binding the young Ruth’s heart to her God and her country, and it would become just as obvious whether Ruth was really willing to offer up everything, forget the things that were behind, and pursue the things that were ahead.