ONE of the best-known stories about widows is the Bible account of Ruth and her mother-in-law, Naomi. Both women were widows. Naomi, however, lost not only her husband but also her two sons, one of whom had been Ruth’s husband. Because they lived in an agricultural society that depended much on its menfolk, their situation was indeed tragic.​—Ruth 1:1-5, 20, 21.

However, Naomi had an outstanding friend and comforter in her daughter-in-law Ruth, who refused to leave her side. In time, Ruth proved to be “better to [Naomi] than seven sons”​—not only because of her deep love for Naomi but also because of her love for God. (Ruth 4:15) When Naomi recommended that Ruth return to her Moabite family and friends, Ruth replied with one of the most touching expressions of loyalty ever recorded: “Where you go I shall go, and where you spend the night I shall spend the night. Your people will be my people, and your God my God. Where you die I shall die, and there is where I shall be buried. May Jehovah do so to me and add to it if anything but death should make a separation between me and you.”​—Ruth 1:16, 17.

Ruth’s attitude did not escape Jehovah God’s notice. He blessed the little household of Naomi and Ruth, and eventually Ruth married the Israelite Boaz. Their child, who became an ancestor of Jesus Christ, was cared for by Naomi as though it were her own. This history is an example of how Jehovah cherishes widows who draw close to him and trust in him. Further, the Bible tells us that he values those who lovingly help widows in their trials. So how can we today support the widows in our midst?​—Ruth 4:13, 16-22; Psalm 68:5.

Ruth, although herself a widow for a while, truly honored Naomi by willingly and lovingly making sure that Naomi’s physical and emotional needs were cared for. In fact, Ruth’s attitude quickly earned her a fine reputation, so that her future husband said to her: “Everyone in the city of my people is aware that you are an excellent woman.” (Ruth 3:11, footnote) At the same time, Naomi’s love for God, her undemanding nature, and her deep appreciation for Ruth’s efforts in her behalf no doubt made it a pleasure for Ruth to assist her. What a fine example Naomi is to widows today!