CHILDREN STS LESSON 30: RUTH’S PIETY AND HARD WORK

Scripture Reference: Ruth 2:1-23

Two important words stand out in our topic for this lesson, these are: “Piety and Hard Work.” The two words explain the different qualities in the character of Ruth. Piety means complete consecration, submission, and wholehearted devotion to the worship of God. On the other hand, hard work means being industrious and totally committed to whatever you are given to do. Laziness is the opposite of hard work.

Ruth’s decision and conduct show that she had deep love for God and her mother-in-law. She was also very hardworking and diligent. She kept herself holy and pure even though her husband had died. Her life of holiness, piety, and hard work brought the blessings of God upon her life. You too will be blessed if you take a wise decision today to turn away from sinful lifestyles and surrender your life to Jesus, by accepting Him as your personal Saviour and Lord.

1. RUTH’S DETERMINATION TO WORK HARD

Scripture References: Ruth 2:1-7, 17, 18; 1 Thessalonians 4:11

Ruth returned to Bethlehem-Judah with her mother-in-law without any earthly possession. There was no guarantee of where to live, what to eat, or any form of comfort. Yet, Ruth was determined to make the best use of whatever work was available for her. They returned at the time of harvesting crops. She decided to join the farmers to work so as to get food for her mother-in-law and herself.

The Bible commands us to work hard, stating clearly that those who will not work should not eat (2 Thessalonians 3:10). Children who are lazy will not receive anything. Learn from the ants; they are tiny, almost worthless creatures, yet they work hard to gather their food (Proverbs 6:6-8).

Children must learn to work hard in their studies, at home, and in the church. It pays to work hard. God rewarded Ruth’s labour so that she and her mother-in-law had enough to eat and store for the future. She is a worthy example. Let your parents, teachers, and others around you testify that you are a hardworking child.

2. RUTH’S EXAMPLE OF A HOLY LIFE

Scripture References: Ruth 2:8-11; Titus 2:11-14

As a young lady, Ruth kept herself pure and free from all kinds of immorality, even though her husband was no more alive. She did not follow the young men in the farm to do bad things. She was obedient to her mother-in-law and always took permission from her before going anywhere. She was respectful, humble, and honored God by her life of piety and hard work. We can clearly see the character of Ruth in the letters of her name:

• R – Righteous

• U – Uncommon faith

• T – Teachable

• H – Humble

Ruth was submissive, faithful, and gracious in her conduct and speech. Despite the situation she found herself in, she was not bitter or angry.

Other examples of pious women in the Bible include:

• Esther – Chaste and beautiful inside and out; a virgin qualified to be a queen (Esther 2:7, 9, 15-17)

• Mary, mother of Jesus – Often referred to as Virgin Mary; holy and righteous in all things (Luke 1:26-35)

Follow Ruth’s example. Be holy in your thoughts, actions, appearance, speech, and in your relationships. Avoid all immorality; keep yourself pure. There is a great reward for those who live holy.

3. REWARD FOR FAITHFULNESS

Scripture References: Ruth 2:8-23; Psalm 101:6

God watches over those who obey and put their trust in Him. The story of Ruth shows how God helps and provides for those who trust in Him and follow His ways. Ruth’s trust in the Lord prevented her from returning to her people; instead, she followed her mother-in-law Naomi and served the only true God.

God rewarded her by giving her a blessed family. She was honored as one of the ancestors of our Saviour and Lord, Jesus Christ.

THOUGHT

I will work hard and live holy every day. Great rewards await all boys and girls who will be faithful in following the Lord and serving Him wholeheartedly. They will enjoy peace, prosperity, promotion, perfect health, and much more. Ultimately, they will get to heaven and live with Jesus forever. If you are still a sinner, you must repent and forsake all your bad ways. Accept Jesus as your personal Lord and Saviour, live for Him daily, and you will be blessed (How to Accept Jesus).

ACTIVITY

Children should rehearse the story of how Ruth returned to Bethlehem-Judah and why God blessed her.

HOMEWORK

Search the Scriptures and write down names of four children in the Bible who obeyed the Word of God and the blessings they received (Bible Heroes for Kids).

QUESTIONS

1. What is piety? __

2. Outline the characteristics of Ruth using the letters of her name.

3. Mention three other women in the Bible who lived holy lives. __

4. Mention three practical ways through which a Christian child can live holy. __

5. Mention three rewards for the faithful. __

6. How can sinful boys and girls enjoy such rewards? __

MEMORY VERSE

“The LORD recompense thy work, and a full reward be given thee of the LORD God of Israel, under whose wings thou art come to trust” (Ruth 2:12).

LESSON

A life of holiness and hard work will attract God’s favor and blessings.

CONGREGATIONAL SONG

GHS 52 – COUNT ME

CHORUSES

1. There is none holy as the Lord.

2. I want to be a good child.

3. Give me grace to follow.

BIBLE WORD SEARCH

Find the meaning of these words. You can use your dictionary:

1. Piety

2. Decision

3. Hard work

4. Holiness

5. Devotion