Understanding Ruth in the Bible: An In-depth Explanation of the Book of Ruth

What is the basic story and plot of the Book of Ruth?

The Book of Ruth is a beautiful narrative of love, loyalty, and redemption set in the time of the Judges in Israel. This short yet powerful story unfolds in four chapters, revealing God’s providence even in times of hardship.

The tale begins with tragedy, as we learn of Naomi, an Israelite woman who, due to famine, moves to Moab with her husband and two sons. Sadly, all three men die, leaving Naomi with her two Moabite daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth (Dearman, 2018). In her grief, Naomi decides to return to her homeland of Bethlehem, urging her daughters-in-law to remain in Moab. While Orpah reluctantly agrees, Ruth clings to Naomi, pledging her unwavering loyalty in words that have echoed through the ages: “Where you go, I will go; where you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16).

Upon their return to Bethlehem, we see Ruth’s selfless devotion as she gleans in the fields to provide for herself and Naomi. Divine providence leads her to the field of Boaz, a wealthy kinsman of Naomi’s late husband. Boaz, impressed by Ruth’s loyalty and character, shows her kindness and protection (Dearman, 2018).

The plot thickens as Naomi, recognizing an opportunity for Ruth’s security, instructs her to approach Boaz on the threshing floor, a bold move that symbolizes Ruth’s request for marriage. Boaz, a man of integrity, agrees to marry Ruth if a closer kinsman declines the responsibility (Dearman, 2018).

In a dramatic scene at the city gate, Boaz publicly secures the right to marry Ruth. Their union not only redeems Naomi’s family line but also places Ruth in the lineage of David and, of Jesus Christ (Dearman, 2018).

This narrative, is not merely a charming tale. It is a powerful illustration of God’s inclusive love, extending beyond national boundaries. It demonstrates how faith, loyalty, and kindness can lead to unexpected blessings. The story of Ruth reminds us that even in our darkest moments, God is at work, weaving a tapestry of redemption that extends far beyond what we can see or imagine.

I see in this story a powerful example of resilience in the face of loss, the healing power of loyal relationships, and the transformative nature of faith. I recognize its significance in illustrating the social customs of ancient Israel and its importance in the genealogy of King David.

What does the name Ruth mean in the Bible?

Names in the Bible often carry deep significance, revealing aspects of a person’s character or destiny. The name Ruth, in this light, is particularly meaningful and rich with spiritual implications.

In Hebrew, the name Ruth (רות) is generally understood to mean “friend” or “companion” (Achituv & Lichtenstein, 2022, pp. 186–199). This meaning beautifully encapsulates Ruth’s character as we see it unfold in the biblical narrative. She is a true friend and loyal companion to her mother-in-law Naomi, demonstrating unwavering commitment even in the face of great adversity.

But some scholars suggest that the name Ruth may have deeper etymological roots. One interpretation links it to the Hebrew word “re’ut” (רְעוּת), meaning “friendship” or “association” (Villiers, 2017, pp. 35–50). This connection further emphasizes the theme of loyal companionship that is so central to Ruth’s story.

Interestingly, another perspective suggests that Ruth’s name might be derived from the Hebrew root word “ravah” (רוה), which means “to soak” or “to saturate” (Villiers, 2017, pp. 35–50). This interpretation could symbolize how Ruth was saturated with loyalty, love, and faith – qualities that permeate her actions throughout the narrative.

I find it fascinating how Ruth’s name aligns so closely with her role in the story. Names can have a powerful impact on our sense of identity and purpose. In Ruth’s case, her name seems to have been a self-fulfilling prophecy, as she embodied the very essence of friendship and loyalty.

Historically Ruth was a Moabite, not an Israelite. The fact that a foreign woman with a name meaning “friend” or “companion” becomes so integral to Israel’s history is a powerful statement about God’s inclusive love. It challenges the ethnic and cultural boundaries of the time, demonstrating that faith and loyalty transcend national origins.

Ruth’s inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1:5) elevates the significance of her name to a cosmic level. This “friend” becomes a crucial link in God’s plan of salvation for all humanity. Her story reminds us that God often works through unexpected people and circumstances to accomplish His purposes.

Remember, that just as Ruth’s name carried deep meaning, so too does each of our names carry significance in God’s eyes. We are each called to be friends of God and companions to one another, saturated with His love and grace. May we, like Ruth, live up to the highest meaning of our calling, trusting in God’s providence and demonstrating unwavering faith and loyalty in all our relationships.

What are the main spiritual themes and lessons in the Book of Ruth?

The Book of Ruth, though brief, is a treasure trove of spiritual wisdom and insight. It offers us powerful lessons on faith, loyalty, and God’s providential care that resonate deeply with our human experience.

The book beautifully illustrates the theme of hesed, a Hebrew word that encompasses love, kindness, mercy, and loyalty (Villiers, 2017, pp. 35–50). We see this exemplified in Ruth’s unwavering commitment to Naomi, in Boaz’s generosity towards Ruth, and ultimately in God’s faithfulness to His people. This hesed reflects the very nature of God’s love for us – a love that is steadfast, loyal, and goes beyond mere obligation.

Another crucial theme is that of divine providence. Though God is rarely mentioned directly in the narrative, His guiding hand is evident throughout (Dearman, 2018). From Ruth “happening” to glean in Boaz’s field to the ultimate inclusion of this Moabite woman in the lineage of David and Jesus, we see God working behind the scenes, orchestrating events for His greater purpose. This reminds us, that even in our darkest moments, God is at work, weaving a tapestry of redemption that we may not immediately perceive.

The book also powerfully demonstrates the theme of redemption. Boaz, as a kinsman-redeemer, foreshadows Christ’s role as our ultimate Redeemer (Villiers, 2017, pp. 35–50). This narrative shows us how God can turn situations of loss and emptiness into stories of fullness and joy. It offers hope that our lives, like Ruth’s and Naomi’s, can be redeemed and transformed by God’s grace.

The Book of Ruth challenges us to reconsider our notions of outsiders and insiders in God’s plan. Ruth, a Moabite, becomes a crucial figure in Israel’s history, reminding us that God’s love and purpose extend beyond national or ethnic boundaries (Villiers, 2017, pp. 35–50). This inclusivity prefigures the universal scope of Christ’s redemptive work.

I’m struck by how the book addresses themes of identity, belonging, and resilience. Ruth’s decision to align herself with Naomi’s people and God speaks to the human need for connection and the transformative power of faith. Her resilience in the face of loss and her willingness to embrace a new identity offer valuable lessons for our own journeys of faith and self-discovery.

Historically, the book provides insight into the social customs of ancient Israel, such as the practices of gleaning and levirate marriage. These customs, designed to protect the vulnerable, remind us of our responsibility to care for those in need within our communities.

Lastly, the Book of Ruth teaches us about the importance of small acts of kindness and ordinary faithfulness. The everyday decisions of Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz had far-reaching consequences, culminating in the birth of King David and Jesus Christ. This encourages us to recognize the potential eternal significance of our daily choices and actions.

How is God’s providence shown in the Book of Ruth, even though He is rarely mentioned directly?

The Book of Ruth offers us a powerful lesson in recognizing God’s providence in our lives, even when His presence seems hidden. Though God is rarely mentioned directly in this narrative, His guiding hand is evident throughout, working through ordinary events and human decisions to accomplish His extraordinary purposes.

We see God’s providence in the timing of events. When Naomi decides to return to Bethlehem, it “just so happens” to be the beginning of the barley harvest (Ruth 1:22) (Dearman, 2018). This timing is crucial, as it provides the opportunity for Ruth to glean in the fields and meet Boaz. I’m reminded of how often seemingly coincidental timing can be a source of hope and a sign of divine guidance in our lives.

Ruth “happens to come to the part of the field belonging to Boaz” (Ruth 2:3) (Dearman, 2018). This “chance” occurrence is a clear indication of God’s unseen direction. It reminds us that even in our random choices, God can be guiding our steps towards His purpose.

The character of Boaz himself is a testament to God’s providential care. That such a man of integrity and kindness should be in a position to help Ruth and Naomi is no mere coincidence. It speaks to how God often works through the goodness and obedience of individuals to bless others (Villiers, 2017, pp. 35–50).

We also see God’s providence in the laws and customs of Israel that provide for the poor and the widowed. The practice of gleaning and the institution of the kinsman-redeemer were part of God’s design to protect the vulnerable. That Ruth and Naomi could benefit from these provisions shows God’s foresight in establishing such customs (Villiers, 2017, pp. 35–50).

The eventual marriage of Ruth and Boaz, leading to the birth of Obed, is perhaps the clearest demonstration of God’s providence. This union not only redeems Naomi’s family line but also places Ruth in the lineage of David and Jesus Christ (Dearman, 2018). It reveals how God’s plans often extend far beyond what we can see or imagine in the moment.

I’m struck by how this story illustrates God’s providence in the larger narrative of Israel’s history. That a Moabite woman would become the great-grandmother of King David is a powerful testament to God’s inclusive love and His ability to work through unexpected people and circumstances.

Psychologically, this indirect portrayal of God’s providence offers a valuable lesson. It teaches us to look for God’s hand in the ordinary events of our lives, to trust in His guidance even when it’s not overtly miraculous. It encourages us to view our lives through the lens of faith, recognizing that God is always at work, even in ways we might not immediately perceive.

The Book of Ruth challenges us to be active participants in God’s providential work. Ruth’s decision to stay with Naomi, Boaz’s choice to show kindness, and Naomi’s guidance all played crucial roles in the unfolding of God’s plan. This reminds us that while God is sovereign, He often accomplishes His purposes through our faithful actions and decisions.

What is the significance of Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi and her faith in God?

Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi and her faith in God stand as a beacon of light in the narrative, illuminating powerful truths about love, commitment, and the transformative power of faith. The significance of Ruth’s actions extends far beyond the immediate story, offering us timeless lessons for our own spiritual journeys.

Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi is a beautiful embodiment of hesed – that uniquely Hebrew concept of loyal love that goes beyond mere duty (Villiers, 2017, pp. 35–50). When Ruth declares, “Where you go, I will go; where you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16), she is making a radical commitment. I see in this declaration a powerful example of selfless love and the human capacity for deep, transformative relationships.

Ruth’s loyalty is particularly striking given her status as a Moabite. By choosing to accompany Naomi to Bethlehem, she is leaving behind her homeland, her culture, and potentially any chance of remarriage or security (Villiers, 2017, pp. 35–50). This decision demonstrates remarkable courage and faith. It challenges us to consider what we might be willing to sacrifice for the sake of love and loyalty.

Ruth’s commitment to Naomi’s God is of powerful significance. Her declaration “your God will be(#)(#)(#)(#)(#)(#)(#) my God” represents a conversion of faith, a willingness to embrace not just Naomi the God of Israel (Villiers, 2017, pp. 35–50). This spiritual dimension of Ruth’s loyalty elevates her story from a mere tale of friendship to a testimony of faith. It reminds us that true faith often requires us to step out of our comfort zones and embrace new realities.

Historically, Ruth’s decision to align herself with Israel and its God is remarkable given the long-standing enmity between Moab and Israel. Her actions serve as a powerful critique of ethnic and religious exclusivism, prefiguring the inclusive nature of God’s kingdom as later revealed in Christ (Villiers, 2017, pp. 35–50).

The significance of Ruth’s loyalty and faith is further underscored by its consequences. Her faithfulness not only provides for Naomi in her old age but also leads to her inclusion in the lineage of David and Jesus Christ (Dearman, 2018). This reminds us that acts of loyalty and faith, even when they seem insignificant, can have far-reaching implications in God’s grand narrative of redemption.

Psychologically Ruth’s story speaks to the power of resilience and the human capacity for growth through adversity. Her willingness to embrace a new identity and faith in the face of loss and uncertainty offers a powerful model of psychological and spiritual resilience.

Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi and her faith in God serve as a beautiful human reflection of God’s own loyal love for His people. Just as Ruth clings to Naomi, so God clings to us, never abandoning us even in our darkest moments. Ruth’s faithfulness thus becomes a parable of God’s faithfulness.

How does the Book of Ruth relate to Jesus and the gospel message?

The Book of Ruth, though small in size, carries within it a powerful foreshadowing of the gospel message and the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. As we contemplate this beautiful narrative, we see God’s plan of redemption unfolding in a deeply personal and relatable way.

We must recognize that Ruth, a foreigner and outsider, becomes an integral part of God’s redemptive plan. This mirrors the inclusive nature of Christ’s message, which extends beyond the boundaries of Israel to embrace all nations. In Ruth’s story, we see a prefiguration of the composed of both Jews and Gentiles, united in faith(Umeanolue, 2022).

The central theme of redemption in Ruth points directly to Christ. Boaz, as the kinsman-redeemer, serves as a type of Christ. Just as Boaz redeems Ruth and Naomi from their desperate situation, so too does Jesus redeem humanity from the bondage of sin. This redemption is not merely a legal transaction but is rooted in love and compassion, reflecting the very heart of the gospel(Umeanolue, 2011, pp. 152–167).

The genealogy at the end of Ruth connects this story directly to the lineage of Jesus. Ruth becomes the great-grandmother of King David, from whose line the Messiah would come. This inclusion of a Gentile woman in the royal lineage of Israel speaks volumes about God’s plan to bring salvation to all peoples through Christ(Cohen, 2012, p. 163).

Psychologically Ruth’s story of loss, faith, and restoration resonates deeply with the human experience. It reminds us that God works through our struggles and uncertainties to bring about His purposes. This narrative of hope in the midst of adversity parallels the gospel message of new life emerging from the apparent defeat of the cross.

Historically, we see in Ruth a bridge between the chaotic period of the Judges and the establishment of the Davidic kingdom. This transition foreshadows the greater transition from the Old Covenant to the New Covenant brought about by Jesus. The faithfulness and loving-kindness (hesed) demonstrated by Ruth and Boaz prefigure the ultimate expression of God’s faithfulness and love in sending His Son(Mawikere et al., 2024).

The Book of Ruth is a microcosm of the gospel story. It speaks of God’s providence, the inclusion of outsiders, redemption through a kinsman, and the working out of divine purposes through ordinary human lives. As we read Ruth, we are invited to see our own stories reflected in hers and to recognize the thread of divine grace that runs through human history, culminating in the person and work of Jesus Christ.

What did the early Church Fathers teach about the Book of Ruth?

Many of the Church Fathers saw in Ruth a prefiguration of the Church and its relationship with Christ. For instance, Ambrose of Milan drew parallels between Ruth’s journey from Moab to Bethlehem and the Church’s journey from paganism to Christ. He saw in Ruth’s declaration to Naomi, “Your people shall be my people, and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16), an echo of the Gentiles’ conversion to the faith of Israel, fulfilled in the Church(Ponesse, 2013, pp. 71–99).

Jerome, in his letters, frequently referred to the Book of Ruth as a prophetic text. He saw Ruth as a type of the gleaning in the fields of Scripture, following after the reapers (the apostles and prophets) to gather spiritual nourishment. This interpretation beautifully blends the historical narrative with spiritual allegory, a common approach among the Fathers(Crehan, 1964, pp. 435–437).

Psychologically the Fathers often emphasized Ruth’s virtues as exemplary for Christian life. Origen, for instance, praised Ruth’s faith and obedience, seeing in her a model of the soul’s journey towards God. This focus on character development and spiritual growth resonates with our understanding of the psychological aspects of faith formation.

Historically, the Fathers were keenly aware of Ruth’s significance in the genealogy of Jesus. Augustine, in his writings against the Manicheans, used Ruth’s inclusion in Christ’s lineage to argue for the continuity between the Old and New Testaments. He saw in her story a powerful testimony to God’s grace extending beyond the boundaries of Israel(Gros, 2011, pp. 647–649).

The concept of redemption in Ruth was particularly major for the Fathers. They saw in Boaz’s redemption of Ruth a type of Christ’s redemption of humanity. Gregory of Nazianzus, for example, drew parallels between Boaz’s act of spreading his cloak over Ruth and Christ’s act of covering humanity with his righteousness.

The Fathers often read Ruth through a typological lens, seeing in its characters and events foreshadowings of Christ and the Church. This approach, while sometimes seeming allegorical to modern readers, was for them a way of discerning the unity of God’s plan throughout Scripture(Chan, 2010).

The Fathers also appreciated the ethical dimensions of Ruth’s story. John Chrysostom, known for his moral exhortations, often held up Ruth and Boaz as examples of virtue, generosity, and faithfulness to God’s law.

Why was Ruth, a Moabite, included in Jesus’ genealogy?

The inclusion of Ruth, a Moabite woman, in the genealogy of our Lord Jesus Christ is a powerful testament to God’s universal love and the inclusive nature of His redemptive plan. This seemingly small detail carries immense theological, psychological, and historical significance that speaks to the very heart of the gospel message.

We must remember that the Moabites were traditional enemies of Israel, descendants of Lot’s incestuous relationship with his daughter. The law of Moses explicitly excluded Moabites from the assembly of the Lord (Deuteronomy 23:3). Yet, in a beautiful demonstration of God’s grace transcending human boundaries, Ruth is not only accepted but honored in Israel’s history(Hakh, 2014, pp. 109–118).

The inclusion of Ruth in Jesus’ lineage serves as a powerful reminder that God’s plan of salvation extends beyond the confines of ethnicity or national identity. It foreshadows the universal scope of Christ’s mission, which would break down the dividing wall between Jew and Gentile. In this light, Ruth becomes a symbol of hope for all those who might feel excluded or marginalized(Doane, 2019).

Psychologically Ruth’s story speaks to the human longing for acceptance and belonging. Her journey from outsider to ancestor of the Messiah resonates with the deep-seated need we all have to find our place in God’s family. It challenges us to examine our own prejudices and to embrace the diversity that enriches the body of Christ.

Historically, the inclusion of Ruth in the genealogy serves multiple purposes. It establishes the Davidic line, of which Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment, as one that includes Gentiles. This fact would have been major for Matthew’s audience, potentially including Jewish Christians grappling with the inclusion of Gentiles in the early Church(Sinaga et al., 2022).

Ruth’s presence in the genealogy, along with other women like Tamar, Rahab, and Bathsheba, highlights God’s tendency to work through unexpected individuals. These women, each with a complex story, remind us that God’s grace often operates outside of conventional expectations. Their inclusion challenges patriarchal assumptions and underscores the importance of women in salvation history(Weren, 2014, pp. 107–124).

Theologically, Ruth’s story prefigures the grafting in of the Gentiles that Paul discusses in Romans 11. Her famous declaration to Naomi, “Your people shall be my people, and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16), becomes a model of faith and conversion that transcends ethnic and cultural boundaries.

Ruth’s inclusion in the genealogy emphasizes the theme of divine providence. Her story is one of apparent tragedy turned to joy, of famine leading to fullness. This narrative arc mirrors the larger story of salvation, where the cross leads to resurrection, and where God continually brings life out of death.

Ruth’s presence in Jesus’ genealogy is a powerful reminder of God’s inclusive love, His sovereign providence, and His ability to use the most unlikely individuals to accomplish His purposes. It challenges us to look beyond outward appearances and cultural prejudices, recognizing that in Christ, there is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for we are all one in Him (Galatians 3:28).

What does the concept of the “kinsman-redeemer” in Ruth symbolize spiritually?

The concept of the “kinsman-redeemer” in the Book of Ruth is a powerful symbol that resonates deeply with our Christian faith. This ancient Hebrew practice, known as “go’el” in Hebrew, carries rich spiritual significance that points us towards the redemptive work of our Lord Jesus Christ.

In the story of Ruth, Boaz acts as the kinsman-redeemer for Naomi and Ruth. His role was to buy back the family property, provide for the widows, and continue the family line. This earthly act of redemption foreshadows the greater spiritual redemption that Christ would bring to all humanity(Cohen, 2012, p. 163).

Spiritually, the kinsman-redeemer symbolizes God’s commitment to rescue and restore His people. Just as Boaz had the right to redeem because of his family connection, Christ, through His incarnation, became our kinsman, sharing in our humanity to effect our redemption. This beautiful parallel reminds us of the lengths to which God has gone to secure our salvation(Umeanolue, 2011, pp. 152–167).

Psychologically the concept of the kinsman-redeemer speaks to our deep-seated need for security and belonging. In a world where we often feel vulnerable and alone, the idea that we have a Redeemer who is both willing and able to rescue us provides powerful comfort and hope. It addresses our innate longing for someone to champion our cause and restore what has been lost.

Historically, the practice of kinsman-redemption was a social safety net in ancient Israel, ensuring that widows and the poor were not left destitute. In Christ, we see this principle elevated to a cosmic scale. He redeems not just land or individual lives the entire creation groaning under the weight of sin and death(Mawikere et al., 2024).

The kinsman-redeemer also symbolizes the restoration of relationships. In Ruth’s story, the redeemer restores Naomi’s family line and Ruth’s place in society. Similarly, Christ’s redemption restores our relationship with God and with one another, healing the fractures caused by sin.

The voluntary nature of the kinsman-redeemer’s act is major. Boaz was not forced to redeem Ruth and Naomi; he chose to do so out of love and compassion. This mirrors the voluntary self-giving of Christ, who “for the joy set before him endured the cross” (Hebrews 12:2).

The concept also carries connotations of justice and righteousness. The kinsman-redeemer acted to set things right, to restore proper order. In a greater sense, Christ’s redemption is the ultimate act of setting things right, of bringing justice and righteousness to a fallen world.

Lastly, the kinsman-redeemer points to the intimacy of God’s redemptive work. It is not a distant, impersonal transaction a deeply personal act of love and commitment. In Christ, we see God entering into the messiness of human existence to bring about our redemption.

The kinsman-redeemer in Ruth symbolizes God’s redemptive love, His commitment to restore and renew, His desire for intimate relationship with us, and His ultimate plan to set all things right through Christ. It invites us to see ourselves as the recipients of this divine redemption and challenges us to extend that same redemptive love to others in our world.

How can modern Christians apply the lessons from Ruth to their lives today?

The Book of Ruth, though ancient in its origins, speaks with remarkable relevance to our modern Christian lives. Its timeless lessons offer powerful guidance for our faith journey in today’s complex world.

Ruth’s unwavering loyalty and commitment to Naomi exemplify the depth of love and faithfulness we are called to demonstrate in our relationships. In a world often characterized by transient connections and self-interest, Ruth’s declaration, “Where you go, I will go” (Ruth 1:16), challenges us to cultivate deep, sacrificial relationships within our families, our churches, and our communities(Umeanolue, 2011, pp. 152–167).

Psychologically Ruth’s story teaches us about resilience in the face of adversity. Having experienced loss and displacement, Ruth does not succumb to despair but chooses to move forward with hope and determination. This resilience, rooted in faith, is a crucial quality for Christians navigating the challenges of modern life(Mawikere et al., 2024).

The concept of gleaning in Ruth’s story reminds us of the importance of generosity and social responsibility. Boaz’s willingness to go beyond the letter of the law in his provision for Ruth challenges us to consider how we can use our resources to support those in need. In our modern context, this might translate into active involvement in social justice issues, ethical business practices, or personal acts of charity(Umeanolue, 2022).

Ruth’s initiative in approaching Boaz teaches us about the balance between faith and action. While trusting in God’s providence, Ruth also takes practical steps to secure her and Naomi’s future. This serves as a reminder that our faith should be active, informing our decisions and motivating us to take responsible action in our lives.

The theme of redemption in Ruth speaks powerfully to our understanding of God’s work in our lives. Just as Boaz redeemed Ruth, we are called to recognize Christ as our ultimate Redeemer. This should inspire gratitude and a desire to extend God’s redemptive love to others, particularly those who may feel marginalized or excluded(Cohen, 2012, p. 163).

Ruth’s status as a foreigner who becomes integral to God’s plan challenges us to embrace diversity and practice radical inclusion in our churches and communities. In an era often marked by division and xenophobia, Ruth’s story encourages us to see beyond cultural, ethnic, or social boundaries and to recognize the image of God in all people(Doane, 2019).

The virtues displayed by Ruth and Boaz – kindness, integrity, and generosity – provide a model for Christian character in any age. In a world that often prioritizes self-promotion and personal gain, these qualities stand out as a powerful witness to the transformative power of faith.

Lastly, the overarching theme of God’s providence in Ruth’s story encourages us to trust in God’s guidance, even when circumstances seem bleak. This trust is not passive but active, involving both faith and responsible action on our part.

In applying these lessons, we must remember that the Christian life is not about perfection but about progress. Like Ruth, we are on a journey of faith, growing in our understanding and application of these principles day by day.