Group Discussion Guide
Ruth, Part 2
This guide is designed to help your group create a space for genuine connection and conversation within your discussion time. Don't feel pressured to address every question each week. Instead, allow the Holy Spirit to guide you as you lead your group in uncovering what God intends to communicate during your time together.
This guide comprises three sections: Loving, Learning, and Living. Each section aims to steer your conversation towards meaningful discussions about spiritual growth as individuals and as members of the body of Christ.
This guide comprises three sections: Loving, Learning, and Living. Each section aims to steer your conversation towards meaningful discussions about spiritual growth as individuals and as members of the body of Christ.
LOVING
First moments together as a group to connect and pray (approx. 10-15 min).
Open with prayer and invite God to be part of your conversation and relationship.
- How have you seen God at work in your life since the last time we met?
- What has been one high and one low since the last time we met?
- How did you do with living out what we talked about last time we met?
Open with prayer and invite God to be part of your conversation and relationship.
LEARNING
The majority of the group discussion is devoted to open dialogue, reflecting on God’s Word and its personal application to each of our lives (approx. 60-75 min).
Scripture References from Message: Ruth 2
Big Idea from Message: What looks like coincidence is often the kindness (or mercy) of God in disguise
Can you think of a time when something “random” or unexpected turned out to be a blessing in disguise?
Ruth finds herself in a new land, recently widowed, caring for her mother in law, and without much hope for provision, yet she chooses to take action. What risks did Ruth take by going to glean in the fields in verse 2? How does her initiative reflect her trust in God even in less than ideal circumstances?
Let’s talk about how her example challenges us. What typically holds us back from acting in faith when the timing or situation is not perfect?
As Ruth works hard in the field, she has no idea how God is already orchestrating a blessing through Boaz. Looking at Boaz’s response in verses 11 and 12, how do we see God's kindness unfold through Ruth's faithfulness?
By the end of the chapter, Naomi’s tone begins to shift as she sees evidence of God’s hand in Ruth’s encounter with Boaz. Naomi helps Ruth realize that what felt like luck was really mercy. How does Naomi’s reaction in verse 20 show a change in her perspective? Why is it often hard to see God’s kindness in the moment?
Romans 8 verse 28 reminds us that in all things God works for the good of those who love him and who have been called according to his purpose. How does this truth deepen our understanding of Ruth’s story and help us trust that God is working even in moments that seem ordinary, random, or painful?
Scripture References from Message: Ruth 2
Big Idea from Message: What looks like coincidence is often the kindness (or mercy) of God in disguise
Can you think of a time when something “random” or unexpected turned out to be a blessing in disguise?
Ruth finds herself in a new land, recently widowed, caring for her mother in law, and without much hope for provision, yet she chooses to take action. What risks did Ruth take by going to glean in the fields in verse 2? How does her initiative reflect her trust in God even in less than ideal circumstances?
Let’s talk about how her example challenges us. What typically holds us back from acting in faith when the timing or situation is not perfect?
As Ruth works hard in the field, she has no idea how God is already orchestrating a blessing through Boaz. Looking at Boaz’s response in verses 11 and 12, how do we see God's kindness unfold through Ruth's faithfulness?
By the end of the chapter, Naomi’s tone begins to shift as she sees evidence of God’s hand in Ruth’s encounter with Boaz. Naomi helps Ruth realize that what felt like luck was really mercy. How does Naomi’s reaction in verse 20 show a change in her perspective? Why is it often hard to see God’s kindness in the moment?
Romans 8 verse 28 reminds us that in all things God works for the good of those who love him and who have been called according to his purpose. How does this truth deepen our understanding of Ruth’s story and help us trust that God is working even in moments that seem ordinary, random, or painful?
LIVING
The challenge for the week ahead is to grow in our faith and lovingly hold each other accountable through the community.
This week, think about an area in your life where you have been holding back, waiting for better conditions or more certainty. Take one step of faith in that area, however small, and be on the lookout for how God might meet you with kindness and provision along the way. Share with your group what that step is and hold each other accountable to act in faith.
This week, think about an area in your life where you have been holding back, waiting for better conditions or more certainty. Take one step of faith in that area, however small, and be on the lookout for how God might meet you with kindness and provision along the way. Share with your group what that step is and hold each other accountable to act in faith.