A great example of a woman in the Bible who exhibited learned optimism is Ruth. Ruth’s story is found in the Book of Ruth, and it showcases her resilience, faith, and positive outlook in the face of difficult circumstances.
Ruth’s Story:
Tragedy and Loss:
Ruth was a Moabite woman who married into an Israelite family that had moved to Moab due to a famine in their homeland. Tragically, Ruth’s husband, along with his father and brother, died, leaving Ruth, her sister-in-law Orpah, and her mother-in-law Naomi as widows (Ruth 1:1-5).
- In ancient times, being a widow without a male protector was particularly precarious, as women had limited rights and means of support.
Choosing Loyalty and Faithfulness:
After the deaths of their husbands, Naomi decided to return to Bethlehem in Israel, her homeland. She urged Ruth and Orpah to stay in Moab and remarry. While Orpah eventually returned to her family, Ruth made the remarkable decision to stay with Naomi, uttering the famous words: “Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16).
- Ruth’s choice demonstrated her deep loyalty and faithfulness, not only to Naomi but also to Naomi’s God. This decision set the stage for her learned optimism, as she embraced an uncertain future with trust and determination.
Hard Work and Perseverance:
Upon arriving in Bethlehem, Ruth immediately took initiative to provide for herself and Naomi. She went to glean in the fields, a practice allowed for the poor to collect leftover grain after the harvesters had passed through (Ruth 2:2-3).
- Ruth’s willingness to work hard in a foreign land, despite the potential dangers and difficulties, showed her perseverance and positive attitude. She did not succumb to despair but sought opportunities to improve her situation.
Finding Favor with Boaz:
Ruth’s optimism and hard work caught the attention of Boaz, a wealthy landowner and relative of Naomi. He admired Ruth for her loyalty to Naomi and her diligence in the fields. Boaz ensured that Ruth was protected and provided extra grain for her to take home (Ruth 2:8-12).
- Ruth’s respectful and humble demeanor, coupled with her unwavering commitment to Naomi, led to Boaz extending his protection and eventually pursuing her as a wife.
Redemption and Blessing:
Naomi recognized that Boaz could be a “kinsman-redeemer,” a relative who could marry Ruth and thereby preserve her deceased husband’s lineage. Following Naomi’s advice, Ruth approached Boaz at the threshing floor and asked him to redeem her (Ruth 3:6-9).
- Boaz agreed, and after resolving some legal matters, he married Ruth. This union not only provided Ruth and Naomi with security but also placed Ruth in the lineage of King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ (Ruth 4:13-17).
Key Aspects of Ruth’s Learned Optimism:
Faith in the Midst of Uncertainty:
Ruth’s decision to leave her homeland and follow Naomi to Bethlehem was an act of profound faith. She trusted in Naomi’s God and chose to move forward, despite the uncertainty of what lay ahead.
Positive Action in Adversity:
Instead of resigning herself to a life of poverty and despair, Ruth took positive action by gleaning in the fields. Her willingness to work hard and take initiative reflected a hopeful and proactive mindset.
Trust in God’s Provision:
Ruth’s optimism was deeply rooted in her trust in God’s provision. She believed that God would provide for her and Naomi, and her faith was rewarded when she found favor with Boaz.
Loyalty and Love:
Ruth’s unwavering loyalty to Naomi and her compassionate love drove her to make courageous choices. Her positive attitude and actions not only changed her own life but also brought joy and restoration to Naomi.
Blessing and Redemption:
Ruth’s story is one of redemption and blessing. Her learned optimism—expressed through faith, hard work, and love—led to her becoming the great-grandmother of King David and being included in the genealogy of Jesus Christ.
Conclusion:
Ruth is a powerful biblical example of learned optimism. Her life demonstrates that even in the face of loss and uncertainty, faith, loyalty, and hard work can lead to profound blessings and redemption. Ruth’s story encourages us to trust in God’s provision, to take positive actions in the midst of adversity, and to remain hopeful, knowing that God can turn even the most difficult circumstances into a source of blessing and legacy.