We often discover priceless gems in the strangest places—deep in the rugged, dark corners of the earth. This is so with the book of Ruth. Like an exquisite rose blooming in a foul garbage dump, the story of Ruth adds elegance, grace, and charm to an otherwise depressing scene…especially when we realize it transpired during the days when the judges governed and famine spread through the land. What hope this affords us! In spite of depravity’s depths and our bleak surroundings, God still uses choice instruments—His unique and lovely vessels—to bring us reminders of His presence and care.