Naomi lived between 1370 and 1031 BC, most likely when Jair (1126 and 1105 B.C.) was the Judge. Naomi and Elimelech along with their two sons (Mahlon and Chilion) decide to migrate from Bethlehem to Moab fearing drought and famine in Israel. (Ruth 1:1-3) It was about 30 miles journey. The result was disastrous. Elimelech and his two sons died. Naomi, Orpah, and Ruth became a team of three widows. Without income, property, identity, and hope, Naomi decides to go to Israel.
Five Phases of Life of Naomi
Drought and Doubt
Naomi was an active participant in the decision to migrate.
Progress and Pitfall
There was some progress when both sons Mahlon and Chilion were married. Then Naomi had to bury her husband and two sons. Widow in a strange land was filled with utter darkness and hopelessness.
Faith and Hope
When she heard that God had visited his people and there was rain, she decided to go to Israel. (Ruth 1:6-9) Her attitude towards her daughter-in-law is exemplary. First, she treated them with dignity; Second gave them options – freedom to choose; third, acknowledged their goodness; four wished them a new marriage and home. She accepted Ruth and took her.
Redeemed and Restored
Noami wished to call herself Mara – bitterness and empty. (Ruth 1:20,21) Naomi encouraged Ruth to go to work. (Ruth 2) That leads to a meeting of Ruth with Boaz. Sensing God’s plan, Naomi pursues her legal rights to get Ruth married to Boaz, a kinsman who could redeem Ruth. She also encouraged Ruth.
Greatness and Genealogy
God’s intervention in Naomi’s life is that of: Faith, Faithfulness, Fulness, and Fruitfulness. God honored the faith of Naomi. Ruth and Boaz were married as he was a righteous, generous, kind, and godly man. The boy born to Ruth and Boaz was reckoned as the son of Naomi. Ruth’s name is found in the genealogy of Lord Jesus Christ. (Matthew 1:5) Therefore, Naomi was a kind of adoptive grandparent in the lineage of Christ.
Do I have a resilient faith like Naomi?