I have long loved the book of Ruth. As a teenager I memorized it. I had just finished memorizing Romans 6 and was looking for something that was a little more challenging. I don’t know what led me to Ruth, but I’m glad I memorized it.

One thing I have discovered about Scripture memorization is that the Scripture really becomes mine. I find that as I review what I have learned it becomes a form of meditation. It calms me. Sometimes when I can’t sleep I start thinking about verses I have memorized, and it helps me relax.

I’ve also found verses I’ve memorized coming to mind just when I need them. For example, I met my husband on a Thursday night at his church. Ten days later he came to our house for supper and by the end of the evening we were engaged. The next day I was thinking about how my life had changed so completely in such a short amount of time, and I thought, “What have I done? I don’t even know this guy really.” Immediately my mind was flooded with the verse, “Then said she, Sit still, my daughter, until thou know how the matter will fall: for the man will not be in rest, until he have finished the thing this day.” Ruth 3:18. Right away I was at peace. God had answered my worries with a verse that really applied to me. Hugo had finished the job of finding a wife in one day. If I hadn’t memorized Ruth, I wouldn’t have had this verse come to mind. I’m not saying God couldn’t have given me peace in some other way, but I was so glad to have this verse.

I’ve said all this as an introduction to say that in the days and weeks to come I’d like to bring a series of posts on the book of Ruth. I’ve taught this book a couple of times as a Bible college course and in our church’s ladies group. I’m hoping it will bless you, and I want to remind myself of all the reasons why I love this story.

What is your favourite book or portion of the Bible?