Ruth

Ruth was written during the time of the Judges. If you remember anything about that time period, you will understand that the story of Ruth was a refreshing contrast to everything that was going on when "everyone did what was right in his own eyes."

Israel went astray from the time of the Exodus until the time of their captivity. Ruth, on the other hand, was a foreigner who turned to God, behaved faithfully and came under the protection and blessing of the Almighty God. Her reward was to be redeemed eternally as well as socially.

Boaz also showed himself to be righteous, by his trust in God and faithful obedience to God's Law, when he redeemed Ruth. He did a very Christlike thing in redeeming Ruth, though it could have cost him alot to do so. His action reflected a God-centered worldview, in contrast to the unnamed next-of-kin who was interested only in financial gain.

Naomi was also righteous, in spite of her bitter attitude, and showed faith in God through the circumstances of her life.

I have already given you a practical application in a vignette from my own life. Where are the faithful Christians who will do whatever it takes to bring redemption to others spiritually and socially, no matter what the cost?