Ruth England Gottlieb is a naive, protected daughter and young wife living in rural northeastern North Dakota in the early 1900's. When her father dies and her husband of four months is tragically killed, Ruth loses her perspective on her identity. Decisions and unpleasant circumstances are thrust upon her for the first time in her life. She becomes lonely, bitter, and withdrawn.

Ruth moves to another town and takes a job as 'chore girl' for Amos Armstrong, an irascible farmer whose leg injuries prevent him from tending to his animals and his garden. Amos is not easy to get along with and presents Ruth with many challenges. How she deals with her situation does not bring her joy or satisfaction. Yet God has not forgotten about Ruth even though she is not aware of His help.

In the midst of self-pity and functional despair, hope seems elusive for Ruth. Her dreams of being a schoolteacher having been dashed, what lies ahead for her? Where will Ruth find the hope and faith she needs to move beyond not only her past but her present?

Through a series of events, she hears God's voice and receives the love He has for her. She is finally able to rejoice in a new life and realizes she has a hope and a future in Jesus Christ.