In v.7-8 x2 Orpah & Ruth were addressed as daughters-in-law. Naomi persuaded them to go back to their own mothers v.8b. NET, "Naomi’s words imply that it is more appropriate for the two widows to go home to their mothers, rather than stay with their mother-in-law." However, they both wept loudly wanted to return with her.
In v.11-12, Naomi called them x2 "my daughters." After Naomi reasoned with them again, they wept loudly again v.14 (v.9 is the first time they wept). In other words, their relationships were beyond mother and daughter-in-laws. They were like daughters to Naomi. Especially Ruth, who clung tightly to Naomi v.14 and she said she would not "abandoned" her v.16. She was determined to go with her v.18.
The question is, what makes Ruth so determined? Why did she willing to give up the potential of remarry and stayed in Moab? What makes her willing to go to a foreign country (your people v.10, 15) with Naomi who is not capable to give her any protection (v.11)? Orpah's choice was very reasonable, but Ruth was not. NET notes, 'Orpah is a commendable and devoted person (see v. 8); after all she is willing to follow Naomi back to Judah. However, when Naomi bombards her with good reasons why she should return, she relents. But Ruth is special. Despite Naomi’s bitter tirade, she insists on staying. Orpah is a good person, but Ruth is beyond good—she possesses an extra measure of devotion and sacrificial love that is uncommon."
I agreed with Ivy that Ruth is a kind person and beyond kindness. Almost like unreasonable. Perhaps, the hands of God are behind her and finished His plan for her (to become one of the ancestors of David). God uses kind people. When we are the right person we can become someone that God can use. Go an extra miles today.
Audrey
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