Lessons from the Book of Ruth for Married Couples

While most people love a good love story, we need not lean on Hollywood to tell it to us. In the book of Ruth, we find the ultimate love story—one that's rich with love, loyalty, faith, sacrifice, and God's divine plan. Neatly wrapped up in just four chapters, the book of Ruth offers timeless lessons that are especially relevant for married couples today.

In chapter one, we are given a firsthand look at the power of loyalty. Ruth 1:16 says, "Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God." Like real life, the story begins well but soon turns tragic. After ten years of Ruth and Orpah being married to Naomi’s sons, both sons die. Naomi urges her daughters-in-law to return to their families. Orpah does, but Ruth’s loyalty won’t allow her to leave Naomi's side.

This is the kind of loyalty that is needed in marriage—a “no-matter-what” commitment. Ruth demonstrates a fierce faithfulness that mirrors the vows many of us make at the altar: “for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health.” Marriage is not for the faint of heart. It requires a "Ford Tough" mentality—an unwavering resolve fueled not by our own strength, but by the strength of God.

This type of loyalty is especially crucial during the difficult seasons of marriage—seasons like job loss, financial strain, illness, or parenting challenges. Financial stress, for instance, is a leading cause of marital conflict. According to a study published in Journal of Financial Therapy, money issues are one of the top predictors of divorce, often surpassing even infidelity. A 2023 Forbes Advisor article noted that financial disagreements are responsible for nearly 38% of divorces, while infidelity comes in second at around 34%.

These statistics point to a deeper issue: when challenges arise, some couples are tempted to escape rather than endure. Instead of tending to their own gardens, many are lured by the false promise of greener grass. But Ruth’s story teaches us that true love digs deep roots and weathers the storms.

Another powerful theme in Ruth’s story is sacrifice. Ruth left her homeland, her culture, and all she knew to walk into the unknown motivated by love and devotion. This mirrors the kind of selflessness that must exist in marriage. A healthy marriage requires us to prioritize our spouse’s well-being above our own comfort or convenience.

What are some practical ways we can selflessly serve our spouses? One way is by learning and speaking their love language. If I were to answer this personally, I would say: learning my wife's love language has helped me understand what she truly needs from me—not just what I think she needs. Whether it's words of affirmation, acts of service, quality time, physical touch, or receiving gifts—knowing her love language gives me a clear blueprint for how to love her well.

Final Thoughts

The book of Ruth isn’t just a story about a woman who finds love; it’s a story about loyalty, sacrifice, faith, and redemption. It reminds us that even in times of loss and uncertainty, God is working behind the scenes for our good. And in marriage, when we reflect these same values—commitment in hardship, sacrificial love, and faith in God’s plan—we create a union that honors Him.

So, to the married couples reading this: stay faithful, stay connected, and stay prayerful. Let the story of Ruth inspire you to love with intention, serve with humility, and trust that God is at the center of your marriage story.

Reflection Questions for Married Couples

Take a few quiet moments, either alone or with your spouse, to reflect on these questions inspired by the book of Ruth:

1. Loyalty Check:In what ways have I shown loyalty to my spouse during difficult times? How can I grow in faithfulness, especially when circumstances are challenging?

2. Sacrificial Love:What have I willingly sacrificed for the sake of my marriage? Are there areas where I can be more selfless and giving?

3. Love Language:Do I know my spouse’s love language? How can I speak it more fluently and consistently?

4. Trusting God’s Plan: Are there areas in our marriage where we need to trust God more deeply? How can we invite Him into our decision-making and daily life as a couple?

5. Grass Is Greener Myth: Have I ever believed the lie that I would be happier outside of my marriage? What steps can I take to “water my own garden” and nurture our relationship?

6. Praying Together: How often do we pray together as a couple? How can we make spiritual intimacy a regular part of our marriage?

If this blog encouraged you, share it with another couple and subscribe to receive more marriage encouragement at : https://author-eewilkins-8243.kit.com/5870bd97e5 Let’s grow together in love, faith, and purpose.