My question is concerning something in the book of Ruth. It became apparent when I was studying that Elimelech left the promised land for Moab which was not in good standing with Israel. Then, his two sons marry Moabites which was even worse. I know this is an obvious example of how when we fail to put our faith in the Lord and his promises we can end up in trouble. However, after Naomi and Ruth return to Bethlehem, we see Boaz end up marrying Ruth. Why would Boaz marry a Moabite? Was it still considered wrong for Boaz to do this?

That brings me to another issue about their children being allowed to enter into the assembly. Doesn’t Deuteronomy say that their decendants (Moabites) never enter in? I know it says to the tenth, but then it says never. Is this a translation issue? Because David is in the line of Ruth and we know he entered in. Any insight you might be able to lend would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for your efforts and God bless.

A friend recently made the statement that when she married her husband, who was from a small country town which was very different from where she had grown up, it was very hard. She evidently was divorced but told me she tried very hard to live up to the phrase in the Bible that said, I will make your people my people. She was never really accepted in the small town by her husband’s friends and family. My question is, was she interpreting this phrase correctly?

I know Jesus tells us to forgive others – many many times over. But when I forgive, I also tend to let my guard down and Always end up hurt again. This is a close family member who seems to go out of her way just to say or do something hurtful to me. Is there a way to forgive “smartly”, or am I required to open myself up to be hurt every time? Thank you for your dedication to our Savior. God bless you and your ministry.