Sermon notes

“Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.”
— Proverbs 31:28

We have now arrived at Part 2 of our God-centred Relationships series, and today we are focusing on the importance of God-centred parenting, particularly the role of mothers, who play such a vital part in raising children and providing godly leadership within their families and in society.

Where Are the Men? ~ v3–5

“Now Elimelek, Naomi’s husband, died, and she was left with her two sons.
They married Moabite women, one named Orpah and the other Ruth. After they had lived there about ten years,
both Mahlon and Kilion also died, and Naomi was left without her two sons and her husband.”

– Over 2.9 million children in the UK live in lone-parent households.

– Within society, there are growing concerns that the lack of positive male role models can contribute to underachievement among young people in schools, as well as struggles with mental health, social development, and self-esteem.

– According to the Prison Reform Trust, 76% of young men in prison in England and Wales grew up with absent fathers.

– Research also suggests that children from fatherless households are more likely to struggle academically or face behavioural challenges.

Application

Naomi was suddenly plunged into a family crisis after travelling to Moab with her husband and two sons, only to lose them all. Faced with an uncertain future and without financial security, Naomi demonstrated remarkable courage, leadership, and faith.

Never Underestimate the Strength of a Praying Woman ~ v6–7 & 19

– Sometimes, as men, we assume that certain responsibilities require male leadership or input. However, even within a patriarchal society, Naomi and Ruth displayed remarkable strength and leadership during an incredibly difficult season.

– Although there were no men present, this did not prevent them from making the journey back to Judah.

– Naomi was originally from Bethlehem and had only travelled to Moab because of the severe famine in the land. When she learned that the situation in Judah had improved, she decided it was time to return home.

– The journey from Moab to Bethlehem was long and dangerous. Travelling on foot, it would likely have taken between 7 and 10 days.

Application

Without the support of a husband, son, or other male relative, Naomi stepped into a position of leadership. She took responsibility for planning the journey home and guiding Ruth along the way.

We Can Learn a Lot from Naomi, the Mother-in-Law ~ v8–19

Naomi’s character shines through even in the midst of grief.

She demonstrated:

• Selfless love – v.8–9
• Warm companionship and kindness – v.9–10
• Leadership while grieving – v.11–13
• A witness that helped others know God – v.15–17

Despite her pain and loss, Naomi’s life still pointed others toward faith.

Application

Just like Naomi and Ruth, we are grateful for the many wonderful women in our church and community who love God and lead with grace in their homes, families, and within the church. Their faith, resilience, and devotion continue to inspire the next generation.

Discussion Questions

1. What does the story of Naomi and Ruth teach us about trusting God during seasons of suffering?

2. Why do you think Ruth chose to remain with Naomi instead of returning to her own family and culture?

3. What does Ruth’s pledge in Ruth 1:16–17 teach us about loyalty and faith, and how can we apply it in our lives today?

4. During the sermon, the journey from Moab to Bethlehem was mentioned—a journey that would have taken about 7–10 days on foot without the assistance of a man. What does this reveal about Naomi’s leadership qualities, even within a patriarchal society?

5. The book concludes with Ruth becoming the great-grandmother of King David and part of the lineage of Jesus Christ. What does this tell us about how God can use ordinary lives for extraordinary purposes?

6. Whether through family tragedies, broken relationships, or other challenges, what role can the church play in supporting young people who are growing up without a father in the home or without male mentors?