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The friendship between Ruth and Naomi had much against it. They were in-laws. They were from different generations, cultures, and religions. They each had been weakened by tragedy. Yet they also had bonds that held them together. Their understanding of each other's intense pain united them in ways more gentle forces could not.

But even after their fresh grief eased, Ruth and Naomi remained committed to each other. When Naomi returned to Bethlehem, Ruth left her own culture and returned with Naomi. She also adopted Naomi's Hebrew faith. Naomi, in turn, integrated Ruth into her culture by employing the ancient rights of levirate marriage and the privileges of gleaning. Their friendship became well known in the community. Boaz said, "It has been fully reported to me, all that you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband" (2:11). Naomi's neighbors remarked, "Your daughter-in-law [Ruth], who loves you, … is better to you than seven sons" (4:15).

Friendship takes work, time, endurance, and sometimes sacrifice. But the best friendships are worth it. As you overcome your differences with another person, you'll see your own character refined. God can use this softening toward each other to make you both more like Himself. (See also Proverbs 17:17; 18:24; Proverbs 27:17-19; 1 Corinthians 13:4-8; James 5:13-20.)

Good Words to Remember:
May he be to you a restorer of life and a nourisher of your old age; for your daughter-in-law, who loves you, who is better to you than seven sons, has borne him. Ruth 4:15

Today's Challenge:
How has knowing a good friend changed your character?

Copyright © 2003 by the author or Christianity Today International/Christian Bible Studies.

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