Worn Out Women Bible Study
Week 1: Naomi
Before You Begin
I’m so excited that you’ll be joining me on this study of Worn-Out Women in the Bible. My goal is that you will discover for yourself how much fun studying the Bible can be. I’ll be guiding you on your journey but encouraging you to go off on rabbit trails and interesting side paths as you marvel at all the wonders to be found in the Living Word of God.
To get the most out of your study, I would encourage you to invest in a nice study Bible. There are so many available. My personal favorite is The Woman’s Study Bible as it focuses on the Bible women. Study Bibles can be pricey, but look for them on sale. I’ve found January is a good time for buying Bibles, as retailers tend to put them on sale at the beginning of the year. My favorite source for Bibles is ChristianBook Distributors.
You should also get a journal to take notes. This can be one specifically designed for Bible study, or just use a spiral notebook from a dollar store. It doesn’t really matter what it looks like as you’re the only one reading it.
You may also want to invest in a commentary, Bible dictionary, or other Bible reference books, but these are not necessary.
Day 1: Naomi’s Beginnings
Scripture Reading
Read Ruth 1-2.
Review
As you read the scripture passage, either underline or take notes in a journal the verses directly related to Naomi. Make note of all that it tells us about her. If you’re using a study Bible, go back and read the notes in the sidebar or footer.
- Where did Naomi live?
- What do we know about Bethlehem? What do we know about Moab?
- How long did Naomi live in Moab?
- How do the women of Bethlehem treat Naomi and Ruth?
- How did Ruth offer to provide for herself and Naomi?
- Whose field did she work in?
- How did Naomi respond when she found out whose field it was?
- What advice did Naomi give Ruth?
Memory Verse
“He gives strength to the weary and strengthens the powerless.” Isaiah 40:29 (HCSB)
Recite aloud Isaiah 40:29 multiple times.
Prayer
Pray that God will give you strength and that you won’t grow bitter when difficult times come.
Day 2: Naomi’s Conclusion
Scripture Reading
Read Ruth 3-4.
Review
As you read the scripture passage, make note of the verses related to Naomi.
- What did Naomi tell Ruth to do?
- What did the women say to Naomi?
- What kind of relationship did Naomi have with Obed?
- Who gave Obed his name?
- How did Naomi change from the beginning of the book of Ruth to the closing?
Memory Verse
Write Isaiah 40:29 on an index card. Tape it to your mirror or somewhere else where you will see it throughout the day.
Closing Prayer
Thank God for His goodness in seeing you through life’s trials.
Day 3: Dig Deeper
Scripture Reading
Read Ruth 1-2 in a different Bible translation. If you generally read a traditional version such as KJV, try reading a modern version like HCSB. If you’re used to modern versions, read from a traditional translation. If you have a Parallel Bible, use it. You can also use free online resources like BibleHub.com and BibleGateway.com to read multiple Bible translations.
Review
As you read Naomi’s story, you’ll likely find yourself asking questions. Why did things happen the way they did?It helps to write down questions and ponder them in your head. Look at the story in context, study other scriptures, research in reference materials, and try to find out answers to your questions.
Possible questions might include:
- Why did Naomi’s husband leave Bethlehem rather than weathering the famine at home?
- Why did God allow Naomi’s husband and sons to die?
- Why did Naomi’s sons marry Moabite women instead of Israelites?
- Why did Ruth and Orpah head to Bethlehem with her?
- Why did Naomi try to dissuade them?
- Why would Ruth insist on moving with her?
- Why did Naomi call herself Mara?
Scripture Memory
Every time you pass by your memory verse index card, say it aloud.
Closing Prayer Pray for wisdom in understanding the scripture you’re studying.
Day 4: Continue Digging.
Scripture Reading
Read Ruth 3-4 in at least one other Bible translation. Make notes of any differences you notice in the different versions.
Review
Continue asking questions. Write them down. Seek to find answers.
Scripture Memory
Have you memorized Isaiah 40:29 yet? If not, keep saying it aloud throughout the day.
Closing Prayer
Thank God for any insight that He gives you in your studies.
Day 5: Make it Personal
Scripture Reading
Use online Bible tools to find sermons and commentary on Naomi or to research the original Hebrew text.
Review
Conclude your study of Naomi by applying it to your life.
- How does Naomi’s story relate to you?
- How are you like Naomi?
- What would you have done in her situation?
- Have you gone through similar situations?
- How did you handle them?
- What can you learn from Naomi’s story?
- How will it change your behavior or attitude in the future?
Scripture Memory
Incorporate Isaiah 40:29 in your conversations with family and friends. See how often you can mention it.
Closing Prayer
Thank God for all that He’s shown you through the life of Naomi. Ask Him to continue revealing new insight to you.
Additional Resources
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