Faith Talk – January 18, 2026

Title: A Difficult Decade

Scripture: Ruth 1:1-7

Overview: The book of Ruth opens during the time of the judges—a spiritually unstable season marked by moral compromise and hardship. A Jewish family leaves Bethlehem due to famine and settles in Moab, where tragedy compounds over ten years. Naomi loses her husband and both sons, leaving three widows facing grief, uncertainty, and an unclear future. Yet even in these opening verses, God’s providence is quietly at work, preparing a greater story of redemption that will unfold through unlikely people and painful circumstances.

Main Points:

• A Famine: Hard seasons are part of life in a broken world. While God provides for our needs, Scripture reminds us that faith does not exempt us from difficulty—but God remains near and faithful in the midst of it.
• A Family: Elimelech, Naomi, and their sons represent ordinary people making difficult decisions for survival. Their story reminds us that God works through real families facing real struggles.
• Three Fatalities: Naomi experiences profound loss—her husband and both sons—resulting in deep grief and uncertainty. Scripture acknowledges this sorrow while also pointing us to God as a comforter who draws near to the brokenhearted.
• A Farewell: When Naomi hears that God has provided again for His people, she begins the journey home. This turning point signals that even after long seasons of pain, God can bring renewal, purpose, and hope.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• Why did Naomi and her family have to leave their home?
• How do you think Naomi felt when she lost her family members?
• Who helps us when we feel sad or scared?

For Students & Adults

• Why do you think God allows seasons of famine, loss, or hardship?
• What stands out to you about Naomi’s decision to return home?
• How does this passage challenge or encourage you in your own difficult seasons?

Application: Think about a season of hardship you’ve experienced—or are currently walking through. How might God be at work even if you can’t see the full picture yet?

Scripture: Zechariah 9; 13

Christ/Gospel Connections:
All of Scripture points back to Jesus. In our study each week, every age group’s lesson includes a note about how the message connects to Christ. Use these Christ/Gospel Connections as a springboard for meaningful discussion about who Jesus is and what He has done for us.

Preschool – Zechariah talked about a special King who would come gently and be a shepherd to His people. God’s promise came true with Jesus, who came to save us and be our humble King.

Kids – Zechariah prophesied about the Messiah, saying He would be a jumble King who would build a new and better kingdom. Jesus is the Messiah King. Those who trust in Him are forgiven of their sin and welcomed into His kingdom.

Students – Zechariah prophesied about the Messiah, saying He would be a humble King who would build a new and better kingdom. Jesus is the Messiah King. Those who trust in Him are forgiven of their sin and welcomed into His kingdom.

Adults – Jesus is the coming King riding on a donkey, as prophesied by Zechariah. His peace and dominion will be an everlasting kingdom for those who believe in Him.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• What kind of King did God promise to send?
• How is Jesus different from other kings we know about?
• How can we trust God when we don’t understand what He’s doing?

For Students & Adults

• Why do you think God chose to send a humble King instead of a powerful warrior?
• How does God’s faithfulness in keeping His promises give you hope today?
• What does it look like to live as if God’s promises are truly real?