Ruth

Pointing Towards God

God’s care and providence are highlighted throughout the book of Ruth. As we sincerely follow God, He will care for us and guide us along a path that will honor His name.

Ruth 4:14-22

The last verses in this book are compiled of the blessings given to Naomi upon her family’s restoration, and the genealogy of Ruth and Boaz’s first son, Obed. In verses 14 and 15, we read an account of the women in Naomi’s life rejoicing with her for God’s blessings.

Ruth 4:14-15 Then the women said to Naomi, "Blessed is the LORD who has not left you without a redeemer today, and may his name become famous in Israel. "May he also be to you a restorer of life and a sustainer of your old age; for your daughter-in-law, who loves you and is better to you than seven sons, has given birth to him."

This response is similar to when Elizabeth gave birth to John the Baptist in Luke 1:58, “And her neighbors and her relatives heard that the Lord had displayed His great mercy toward her; and they were rejoicing with her”.

Notice in both these instances, rejoicing is a result of recognizing the goodness of God, “Blessed is the Lord” and “the Lord had displayed His great mercy”. There is no attribution to any deserved conclusion from a person’s actions, for instance ‘look at what I have done’, only glory to God for His mercy and kindness.

Psalm 34:1-3; Psalm 103:1-2; 1 Thessalonians 5:18

How is this different from many reactions we might see today of ‘good’ results?
In your own life, do you attribute blessing to God or do you act as though you deserve His favor?

We may often hear words of encouragement that sound like, ‘you worked hard’, or ‘you deserve this’. While these statements might hold some credence, the real fact is all good things come from God’s hand. The women involved in Naomi’s life encouraged her. There are several scriptures that affirm our support of one another through both the pleasant and difficult circumstances of life.

Romans 12:15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.

1Corinthians 12:26 And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; if [one] member is honored, all the members rejoice with it.

What does it look like to rejoice in the blessing of others?
How might you be able to sorrow with another?

Blessings were given to Boaz upon acquisition of Elimelech’s land and Boaz’s marriage to Ruth. Ruth had been on quite a journey. Roughly fifteen years earlier, the thought of all that had happened to her would have been inconceivable. Her marriage to Mahlon from the land of Bethlehem, his early death, her faithful relationship with her mother-in-law, her conversion to the Jewish religion, leaving the land of her birth and traveling to the hometown of her husband’s family, her acceptance into a foreign culture and working as a poor widow in the fields, meeting Boaz, trusting the advice of Naomi, and approaching Boaz as the redeemer of Elimelech’s family name and property, are the elements of a story that could only be written by God’s hand.

Take a moment to recognize God’s direction of your life.

Do you see His blessing in circumstances you might not have chosen for yourself?
Are you thankful for the times He caused you to turn right when you wanted to turn left?
How has He used the more difficult times in your life to cause your trust in Him to grow?

Naomi had lost all and now the future that had seemed bleak is full of hope and promise. We can hardly imagine the devastating loss of a husband and two sons, yet, God gave Naomi a daughter-in-law who loved her and showed kindness and care through difficulty. Often, we do not understand the circumstances God allows. In His perfect time, He bestows a path that is so much better than what we could have hoped. This leads us to the necessity of following Ruth’s example to trust in God for all things, even when the path is unclear or undesirable. It is not about what we want, it is about how God will use our life to glorify Himself.

Psalm 55:22 Cast your burden upon the LORD, and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken.

Ps 37:5 Commit your way to the LORD, trust also in Him, and He will do it.

Recognize that the above scriptures do not state that God might sustain or might direct. Rather, God will care for those who sincerely follow Him. There is no question of His faithfulness in our lives.

Read this encouragement in Isaiah 58:10-11, “And if you give yourself to the hungry, and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, Then your light will rise in darkness, and your gloom [will become] like midday. "And the LORD will continually guide you, and satisfy your desire in scorched places, and give strength to your bones; and you will be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water whose waters do not fail”.

We have choices. We can either be discontent and bemoan our circumstances, wishing things were different, spending our time sorrowing for what we no longer have or how things might have been, or we can walk forward in trust, asking God to show us where we can be used as we fill our days with serving Him.

Psalm 48:14 For this God is our God for ever and ever; He will be our guide even unto death. (KJV)

As long as we are still here on Earth, God has a plan for us. We are to continue to be committed to serving Him in whatever capacity we are able, remaining joyful for His care and guidance. He will carry us through. Find joy in this truth!

Isaiah 46:4 Even to your old age, I shall be the same, and even to your graying years I shall bear [you!] I have done [it,] and I shall carry [you;] and I shall bear [you,] and I shall deliver [you.]

Ruth 4:16 Then Naomi took the child and laid him in her lap, and became his nurse.

We are given a glimpse of Naomi’s broken heart and spirit in the first chapter of Ruth. She had encouraged her daughters-in-law to forge ahead with their own lives in Moab as she was contemplating her loss of husband and sons. Now, in this final chapter of Ruth, we see God has a very direct plan for Naomi’s involvement in her grandson’s life. She has a significant role in his upbringing as was the custom in this culture. Naomi had a part in teaching her grandchild, showing him her affection and caring for him. According to Smith’s Bible Dictionary, in ancient times, the position of a nurse, wherever one was maintained, was one of much honor and importance. This position is akin to being a foster-mother or guardian.

In a way, God had given to Naomi a son – meaning a builder of the family name – to restore what she had lost.

Ruth 4:17 And the neighbor women gave him a name, saying, "A son has been born to Naomi!" So they named him Obed. He is the father of Jesse, the father of David.

Obed, the son of Boaz and Ruth, became the grandfather of David. Here is the conclusion of this book, the genealogy of Christ, from the line of David. Consider this picture of redemption. Boaz did not reject Ruth because of her low estate. Instead, he chose to give her honor by marriage. Likewise, God has not rejected us because of our sin, rather He sent Jesus to redeem us so that we might have a position in heaven with Him. We are wholly undeserving yet fully blessed.

Ruth 4:18-22 states the genealogy of our Savior, sent from heaven to be born of man. Commentaries agree that some names are omitted in the genealogy. More complete lists are found in the book of 1 Chronicles, Numbers and Matthew. What is written is what we need to know, God used a Gentile woman from the land of Moab to fulfill His promise of a Messiah.

This is only an account that God could have written. Read this excerpt from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge, “The distress of Naomi; her affectionate concern for her daughter-in-law; the reluctant departure of Orpah; the dutiful attachment of Ruth; and the sorrowful return to Bethlehem … the account of Ruth’s industry and attention to Naomi; of the elegant charity of Boaz … the care of Divine Providence over those who sincerely fear God, and honestly aim at fulfilling His will, the circumstance of a Moabitess becoming an ancestor of the Messiah seems to have been a pre-intimation of the admission of the Gentiles into his church. It must be remarked, that in the estimation of the Jews, it was disgraceful to David to have derived his birth from a Moabitess … This book, therefore, contains an intrinsic proof of its own verity, as it reveals a circumstance so little flattering to the sovereign of Israel …

Ruth’s loyalty and Boaz’s kindness are themes in this book. What does your life say of your loyalty to God? How do you express kindness to others?

Do you trust God in all circumstances, remaining patient for His answers? How is trust exemplified in your life?

Consider Ruth’s example of humility. How will you apply this example in your present circumstances?

God’s care and providence are highlighted throughout the book of Ruth. As we sincerely follow God, He will care for us and guide us along a path that will honor His name. Take a moment to think about the ending of this book.

Who does it point to?

“All the Scriptures are intended to lead us in faith to the great Redeemer. God grant that they may not miss their design in our case”. Spurgeon Devotional Commentary

God’s Sovereignty

Consider God’s direction in your life. Pause for a moment and look back to His guidance and His protection. Often, at the time circumstances are happening, we do not clearly see the full picture ahead. God sees completion, every detail from beginning to end. He will use His children for the praise of His name.

Ruth 4:9-13

We continue with the account of the exchange of property from the nearest kinsman to Boaz. Looking back in Ruth 3:13, Boaz told Ruth that he would redeem her if the nearest kinsman was unable to do so. He then immediately went to the city gates to inquire of this relative and take care of the matter. He was given his answer and in verses 9 and 10, it seems he announced his purchase of the land and his wedding.

Ruth 4:9-10 Then Boaz said to the elders and all the people, "You are witnesses today that I have bought from the hand of Naomi all that belonged to Elimelech and all that belonged to Chilion and Mahlon. "Moreover, I have acquired Ruth the Moabitess, the widow of Mahlon, to be my wife in order to raise up the name of the deceased on his inheritance, so that the name of the deceased may not be cut off from his brothers or from the court of his [birth] place; you are witnesses today."

Boaz lets the elders of the city and those present that he is now the rightful owner of all that had belonged to Elimelech and his sons. In this public announcement, Boaz states his intention to marry Ruth, the widow of Mahlon. This marriage would continue the name of Elimelech’s family. Recognize this transaction required Boaz to lay aside his own name in order to raise an heir for Elimelech’s family name.

Once again, we must step back and consider our redemption at the cross of Christ. Christ looked upon us with mercy and purchased our inheritance in heaven. Even though we were undeserving and poor, He willingly laid aside His riches to acquire us for His Father. Christ did this publicly for all to witness. There is no question of His great love for us.

“Thus hath our God, our divine Redeemer, when we were poor and destitute, and none were either able or willing to purchase the inheritance, which we by sin had so deeply mortgaged, yea, utterly forfeited, paid down the price, even at the expense of marring his own inheritance; having left the realms of bliss and glory for our sake, and then espousing us to himself, hath made us sharers of that glory, to which the Father, as the reward of his sufferings, hath exalted him”, Thomas Haweis.

The words recorded for us in Ruth 4:10 give us a reminder of Ruth’s background. She was a descendent from Moab, a land that was considered detestable because of its idol worship. However, Ruth had fully embraced the Jewish faith as she answered God’s call. Recall Ruth 1:16, “But Ruth said, "Do not urge me to leave you [or] turn back from following you; for where you go, I will go, and where you lodge, I will lodge. Your people [shall be] my people, and your God, my God”.

After Boaz made his intentions clear to all those who were congregated around the city gates, the people responded with great blessings toward him and Ruth for many children.

Ruth 4:11-12 And all the people who were in the court, and the elders, said, "[We are] witnesses. May the LORD make the woman who is coming into your home like Rachel and Leah, both of whom built the house of Israel; and may you achieve wealth in Ephrathah and become famous in Bethlehem. "Moreover, may your house be like the house of Perez whom Tamar bore to Judah, through the offspring which the LORD shall give you by this young woman”.

A similar blessing was given to Rebekah in Genesis 24:60, “And they blessed Rebekah and said to her, "May you, our sister, become thousands of ten thousands, and may your descendants possess the gate of those who hate them”.

Psalm 127:3-5 Behold, children are a gift of the LORD; the fruit of the womb is a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are the children of one's youth. How blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them; they shall not be ashamed, When they speak with their enemies in the gate.

Adam Clarke’s Commentary says this about the mention of the house of Perez: “This was very appropriate; for from Pharez, the son of Judah, by Tamar, came the family of the Beth-lehemites and that of Elimelech”.

Ruth 4:13 So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife, and he went in to her. And the LORD enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son.

Following a public declaration and the blessing of others, Boaz and Ruth are husband and wife. God then enabled them to conceive a child. This child would be in the lineage of David, and the Messiah.

“He that forsakes all for Christ shall find more than all with him; it shall be recompensed a hundred-fold in this present time…. Boaz had prayed that this pious proselyte might receive a full reward of her courage and constancy from the God of Israel, under whose wings she had come to trust; and now he became an instrument of that kindness, which was an answer to his prayer, and helped to make his own words good. Now she had the command of those servants with whom she had associated and of those fields in which she had gleaned. Thus sometimes God raiseth up the poor out of the dust, to set them with princes”, Matthew Henry’s Commentary on the Whole Bible.

Looking back to Chapter 1, remember Ruth’s marriage in Moab to Elimelech’s son, Mahlon. Verse four states a period of about ten years transpired. In that time, Ruth did not conceive a child. This would have been unusual since marriage was intended to build a family name. Think about God’s perfect plan and timing in using Ruth.

Who ordered the famine?
Who allowed Elimelech to transport his family to Moab?
Who caused Ruth to meet Mahlon?
Who determined the deaths of the three men in the family?
Who orchestrated the end of the famine and Naomi’s return to Bethlehem?
Who intended Ruth to respond to God’s truths?
Who put in place the timing of the harvest and the need of a young widow to supply for her mother-in-law?
Who softened a wealthy landowner’s heart towards a Moabitess?
Who planned the nearest kinsman’s refusal to redeem Ruth in order to open the way for Boaz?

It is impossible to read this account of Boaz and Ruth and not recognize God’s sovereignty. As you read the detail orchestrated by God’s hand, it is almost too much for a mind to grasp and appreciate His power over all.

Deuteronomy 4:39 "Know therefore today, and take it to your heart, that the LORD, He is God in heaven above and on the earth below; there is no other.

1Chronicles 29:12 "Both riches and honor [come] from Thee, and Thou dost rule over all, and in Thy hand is power and might; and it lies in Thy hand to make great, and to strengthen everyone.

Psalm 135:6 Whatever the LORD pleases, He does, In heaven and in earth, in the seas and in all deeps.

Daniel 4:35 "And all the inhabitants of the earth are accounted as nothing, But He does according to His will in the host of heaven And [among] the inhabitants of earth; And no one can ward off His hand Or say to Him, 'What hast Thou done?'

Do you see His hand in your life?
Do you trust His direction?

Recall the qualities displayed for us in Ruth’s character. She responded to God’s call and was willing to follow His direction (1:16). She was loyal and courageous (1:17-1:18). She did what was necessary (2:2). She was a hard worker (2:7, 17). She was humble; she expected no special treatment (2:10, 13). Her works proved her faith (2:11-12). She took direction from others (2:22, 23; 3:5, 14-15). She was virtuous (3:11). She was patient (3:18).

God used her life to glorify Himself. He will use your life also. Respond to His call, follow His direction, be willing to go forth courageously in His strength, work hard, remember your need for His sacrifice, live out your faith, listen to the wisdom of others, strive to be morally excellent, and wait upon God.

Where did all of this lead in Ruth’s life?

Blessing!

“Thus was her self-denying faith rewarded. She left behind her both relatives, country, and prospects, to cast in her lot with the Lord's people, and the Lord not only blessed her, but blessed distant generations through her. Those who follow the Lord at all hazards shall be no losers in the long run. To increase Ruth's joy and crown her happiness, the Lord gave her a son, which son was also a joy to Naomi.” Spurgeon Devotional Commentary

The pursuit of God will transform your character and you will be blessed as He uses your life for His glory. The first chapter of Timothy records Paul’s words to Timothy on being a faithful worker of Jesus Christ for the glory of God.

1Timothy 1:17 Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen. KJV

Righteous Decisions

I am reminded again of the importance in total honesty when disclosing information. It may be that we are led to leave out just a small bit of information for fear that things may not go the way we would like. We may stretch the truth to make something seem more desirable. We are used to ‘wheeling and dealing’ in many of our transactions today. It is important however, to hold honesty as a priority.

Ruth 4:1-8

The end of Ruth, Chapter 3:16-18, reminded us of the necessity to rely completely on God’s direction. We are to choose to trust God, we are to find our delight in Him alone, and we are to commit to His perfect plan, having confidence that He is in control.

Now we come to the last chapter in this incredible true story of redemption. Ruth, a Moabitess, having trusted in God, is awaiting to hear from Boaz, her kinsman redeemer. Will he be able to save her late husband’s family’s name and inheritance through marriage? We have witnessed through this account, Naomi’s faith in God, her teaching of His ways to her daughter-in-law, and her wise instruction to Ruth. Ruth has obediently followed instruction, humbly accepted her position and trusted in God’s direction. Her actions have been noticed and her character of virtue applauded. Boaz, described for us as honorable, has been an encourager to all those with which he is in contact. He has placed the law and doing what is right over his own desires and shows us his care for Ruth in leading her in a righteous way. Ruth has been told to wait for the response of Boaz as he approaches a member of the family who is a closer relative, with the right to redeem Ruth and the inheritance of the family’s land. Now we will continue with Chapter 4.

Ruth 4:1 Now Boaz went up to the gate and sat down there, and behold, the close relative of whom Boaz spoke was passing by, so he said, "Turn aside, friend, sit down here." And he turned aside and sat down.

Boaz went to the city gate. This was a place for public deliberation, administration of justice or of audience for kings and rulers or ambassadors (Smith’s Bible Dictionary). Matters of great importance were decided upon at the city gates. Boaz chooses to bring the matter of redeeming Elimelech’s inheritance to the public. This again speaks of his character. Perhaps, he could have just assumed the closer relative was uninterested since there had been no movement that we know of from any other direction. However, being upright in all things requires every action to be completely honest before God who knows all things. Think how this example might be applied to yourself.

Have you tried to ‘get away’ with something, thinking no one would find out?
Have you purposely ignored information that might change what you would like?
Do you avoid taking a stand because you will be unpopular with family or friends?

We can assume we know what someone else’s response may be to a situation that involves them. We can even make decisions for another, thinking we are acting in their best interest or that they will not care or have a preference. Making an important decision with these assumptions leaves the consideration of someone else’s desires to our own interpretation and personal benefit. Is this approach truly honest? Do we manipulate circumstances for our own profit?

There may be a personal cost of being careful and deliberate in our decisions. Consider the account we are studying. It seems Boaz had developed a heart for Ruth. He had been attracted to her virtuous character. He is perhaps anticipating a union with her. He is now taking steps that could take his opportunity away. Yet, he is proceeding in a righteous direction.

We may find there is a different explanation for something or a better way to proceed. Are we open to a direction we may not have thought or appreciated? Sometimes exploring all the possibilities will lead us to a more difficult answer. It might even seem that we will miss out on something. However, the end result of being careful and righteous in our decisions is always honoring to God. Think carefully, we can ignore doing the right thing before God in order to preserve a relationship or not cause any waves, but then, who are we honoring?

Do you make promises you are not sure you can keep in order to avoid flack?

Rather than making a promise to Ruth that he righteously was uncertain he could fulfill, Boaz sought complete honesty and justice in redeeming Elimelech’s land and name. We are told Boaz sat at the city gate. Recall this is where all public transactions took place and usually a council of leaders was present. As people moved in and out of the city, business was arranged, and deals were made. When Boaz sees the srelative, he needs to address, he greets and stops him. "Turn aside, friend, sit down here."

Boaz recognizes the one who is a closer kinsman to Elimelech’s family than himself and tells him he has business to conduct with him. Boaz was an important magistrate or leader in the village, and he was able to gather men together to hear the transaction.

Ruth 4:2 And he took ten men of the elders of the city and said, "Sit down here.” So they sat down.

It is interesting to note how simple it was to make a legal transaction at that time. Compared to our court system now, it would take months just to gather the people involved with all their witnesses and evidence! Notice the wisdom also in conducting business with others present to hear the decision. This way there would be little chance for misunderstanding, or as it is in our courts, to contest the verdict.

Boaz presents his case to the closest relative and to the elders in the city:

Ruth 4:3-5 Then he said to the closest relative, "Naomi, who has come back from the land of Moab, has to sell the piece of land which belonged to our brother Elimelech. “So I thought to inform you, saying, 'Buy [it] before those who are sitting [here,] and before the elders of my people. If you will redeem [it,] redeem [it;] but if not, tell me that I may know; for there is no one but you to redeem [it,] and I am after you.'“ And he said, "I will redeem [it.]" Then Boaz said, "On the day you buy the field from the hand of Naomi, you must also acquire Ruth the Moabitess, the widow of the deceased, in order to raise up the name of the deceased on his inheritance."

Boaz states the first order of business – Naomi was in need and there was land of Elimelech’s to be redeemed. The purchase rightfully belonged to the next of kin. Initially, the closer relative agrees to purchase the land, to buy back his relative’s property. Then Boaz informs the relative that purchasing the land also means acquiring Ruth and having a family with her so that he might continue the family name. This bit of information was a game changer!

2Corinthians 8:21 for we have regard for what is honorable, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.

In order for the relative to purchase the land, he must take Ruth as his wife. He was to redeem all or nothing. His response changes as he contemplates the full cost.

Ruth 4:6 And the closest relative said, "I cannot redeem [it] for myself, lest I jeopardize my own inheritance. Redeem [it] for yourself; you [may have] my right of redemption, for I cannot redeem [it.]

According to several commentaries, the kinsman may have had a previous marriage and children. The addition of children with Ruth would affect his own inheritance and family name. The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge gives this insight, “The Targum seems to give the proper sense of this passage: ‘I cannot redeem it, because I have a wife already; and it is not fit for me to bring another into my house, lest brawling and contention arise in it; and lest I hurt my own inheritance. Do thou redeem it, for thou has no wife; which hinders me from redeeming it’.” I am certain I do not understand Jewish law to give any explanation for the refusal so we will just go with what we know. The closest relative gave up his right to purchasing Elimelech’s land and this opened the door for Boaz to redeem the land and Ruth.

Let us pause for a moment and consider Christ as our Redeemer. Jesus fully paid the price to redeem us for His Father. Christ willingly suffered an undeserving, horrific death for the redemption of mankind. Because of Christ, our inheritance in the kingdom of God has been restored. We have been ransomed from death to life. This picture of Ruth is much like our own. We are unworthy, we have a sinful nature and rebel against God. Yet God chose to remove us from the control of sin and place us in His care and protection. He gifted us with hope for the future through giving us His Son, Jesus Christ as our Redeemer.

Consider this thought. If you say Jesus Christ is your Savior, claiming you understand the need you have to be redeemed from sin, yet, do not follow Him as Lord, you have not accepted the fullness of God’s grace. Many desire the assurance of heaven without wanting to live for Christ. Your life needs to be completely surrendered to God. This means He is the ruler of your life, He has jurisdiction over all you say, think and do – whether you like it or not, whether it is easy or not, or whether you agree or not.

The closest relative in this account wanted the land; he was ready to jump at increasing his property. However, when he realized there was more attached to the deal, and it might make things difficult for him, he bowed out. He wanted part but not all.

Is your life completely surrendered to God? What is your proof?
Is Jesus your Savior and your Lord? How does your life testify to this?

“This kinsman, when he heard the conditions of the bargain, refused it. In like manner many are shy of the great redemption; they are not willing to espouse religion; they have heard well of it, and have nothing to say against it; they will give it their good word, but they are willing to part with it, and cannot be bound to it, for fear of marring their own inheritance in this world”. Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Ruth 4:7-8 Now this was [the custom] in former times in Israel concerning the redemption and the exchange [of land] to confirm any matter: a man removed his sandal and gave it to another; and this was the [manner of] attestation in Israel. So the closest relative said to Boaz, "Buy [it] for yourself." And he removed his sandal.

These next two verses give us the legal exchange of redeeming land and resigning the rights to inheritance.

“The manner and ceremony of conveying over a title and estate amongst the ancient Israelites was this: the person who sold or conveyed over his title pulled off one of his shoes, and in open court delivered it to the purchaser, thereby signifying that he had full right to walk, enter into, or tread upon the land, &c. as his own proper and entire possession”. British Family Bible

The closest relative resigned his right to redeem the property of Elimelech’s family and take Ruth as his wife. The transaction of removing his sandal and giving it to Boaz, allowed Boaz to take possession of the land and marry Ruth.

Naomi’s faith in God results in her family’s name being restored. Ruth’s obedience, faith and trust will place her in a position to be used for God’s redemptive plan. Boaz’s righteousness is blessed by God’s perfect provision.

How has your trust in God changed the direction of your life?
How do you see His hand in moving you towards His purpose?

Wait…

We are to choose to trust God, we are to find our delight in Him alone, and we are to commit to His perfect plan, having confidence that He is in control.

Ruth 3:16-18

Ruth 3:16 And when she came to her mother-in-law, she said, "How did it go, my daughter?" And she told her all that the man had done for her.17 And she said, "These six [measures] of barley he gave to me, for he said, 'Do not go to your mother-in-law empty-handed.'“ 18 Then she said, "Wait, my daughter, until you know how the matter turns out; for the man will not rest until he has settled it today."

We have Ruth returning from the festivities at the end of harvest. She obediently followed Naomi’s instruction to attend the activities at the threshing floor where she secretly let Boaz know of her desire to have him fulfill his role as kinsman redeemer for her late husband’s name. Boaz reacted kindly toward her and sent her home with a gift of grain and a promise that he would indeed take care of the matter. Yet, only if the one who was next of kin was unable to fulfill his obligation.

Naomi was likely anticipating the return of her daughter-in-law since she welcomed her with the question, ‘How did it go, my daughter’. This question may have been one of surprise. Remember, Ruth got up before the morning light as Boaz had told her, then he had sent her on her way before anyone had the opportunity to speak poorly of them. It was likely that Naomi had not expected Ruth to show up so early in the morning. Perhaps she wondered what had happened and maybe thought things did not go as well as she had hoped.

Considering this response, how often do we have expectations of something going a certain way? When circumstances do not develop the way we think they should we are apt to think the worst or wonder what the problem may be. Sometimes, in fact often, we cannot see things clearly. God has a perfect plan. It is good for us to trust in His timing and His execution of the events of our lives.

Ruth then gave her account of Boaz’s response. She showed her mother-in-law the grain Boaz had sent with her. Naomi’s reply in verse 18 is an example for us to follow. She tells Ruth to sit still and wait until Boaz gives her an answer, Ruth 3:18 Then she said, "Wait, my daughter, until you know how the matter turns out. Remember in Ruth 3:12-13 what Boaz said to Ruth on the threshing floor, “And now it is true I am a close relative; however, there is a relative closer than i. Remain this night, and when morning comes, if he will redeem you, good; let him redeem you. But if he does not wish to redeem you, then I will redeem you, as the Lord lives. Lie down until morning”.

Boaz was going to make certain that neither of them acted too quickly without paying attention to facts. This may mean that decisions cannot be made right away. It may take time to sort things out to be certain all information is considered.

How often might we think to ourselves that we need to do something to fix a situation or to figure out an answer NOW?

Once we have taken care of our responsibility in a circumstance, we need to be okay with knowing it is not up to us to make everything right. Instead, we are to have the attitude spelled out for us in the Psalms.

Psalm 37:3-5 Trust in the LORD, and do good; Dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness. Delight yourself in the LORD; And He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, and He will do it.

Trust <batach> to hie for refuge, to be confident or sure, to put confidence, to (make to) hope.

We are to hie, or move fast, to safety. A refuge is something or someone turned to for assistance or security. Our confidence is to be in the Lord, Jehovah, the eternal God. We are to turn quickly to a heart that trusts that God is working.

Do you seek to act according to His will?
Do you believe God will not fail you?

Sometimes, we can choose to change direction because we do not see results or we do not get answers fast. We like to take matters into our own hands! Listen to this commentary, “To trust in the Lord, on his promises for support … persevering in the path of duty, however … discouraging it may appear” (Thomas Haweis).

We have a responsibility to place our trust in God even if circumstances are not what we think they ought to be. In fact, we are to be busy about doing the things God would have us do while we are trusting in His direction and care – “do good; dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness”.

Be at rest right where God has you. Your security is in God, not in circumstances.

Are you able to find delight in the Lord?

Delight <anag> to be soft or pliable. Think about this for a moment. Perhaps your answers will not be God’s answers. That is okay. Our own determination for what should be can derail us from seeing something with different possibilities. God is in charge!

Are we open to a different direction than perhaps the one we have entertained?
Do we allow ourselves to consider an alternative that we had not thought of?
Are we able to trust in God when His direction does not make sense in our mind?

Consider anyone in authority. Their position means they make decisions for all those for which they are responsible. Parent/child, Teacher/student, Employer/employee, and Government/citizens, are all examples of these relationships. While these relationships are all subject to error because of human limits, we are still to move, even without understanding, in the direction we are told.

God, who is perfect in all His ways, and understands all things, and desires to bless His children, tells us to trust in Him and be flexible to His plan.

When we seek our joy in the Lord, through His word and promises, He will bestow upon us everything that is good. If our delight is in pleasing God, our desires will be for those things that glorify His name.

Psalm 43:4 Then I will go to the altar of God, To God my exceeding joy; and upon the lyre I shall praise Thee, O God, my God.

Psalm 104:34 Let my meditation be pleasing to Him; As for me, I shall be glad in the LORD.

“Think what he is, and what you are; and at once, both wonder and yield. And what else have you to delight in? What thing will you name that shall supply the place of GOD, or be to you in the stead of him? Moreover, who should delight in him but you -- his friends, his sons, those of his own house? Think what life and vigor it will infuse into you, and that "the joy of the Lord will be your strength," Treasury of David

“The desires of God, and the desires of the righteous, agree in one; they are of one mind in their desires”. John Bunyan.

Commit <galal> to roll (literally or figuratively); roll (away, down, together), run down, seek.

“Roll thy way upon -- as one who lays upon the shoulder of one stronger than himself a burden which he is not able to bear”. William De Burgh, D.D., in "A Commentary on the Book of Psalms. Dublin:" 1860.

Think about what happens when you commit to something. You devote yourself to someone or something. You put all your efforts confidence and trust into the thing that you have determined is important. Seek God; commit your way to follow Him. This is an active choice to follow God in obedience – even if you are unsure of the direction.

Psalm 22:8 "Commit [yourself] to the LORD; let Him deliver him; Let Him rescue him, because He delights in him."

Proverbs 16:3 Commit your works to the LORD, and your plans will be established.

Psalm 55:22 Cast your burden upon the LORD, and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken.

Consider how well you do following your own wisdom.

Where do you place your concerns?
Do you fully expect God to take care of your circumstances, to fulfill your desires, to accomplish what is needed to grow you into His likeness?

He will do it! God will certainly cause His will for you to be done. This is not a maybe.

Luke 12:29 "And do not seek what you shall eat, and what you shall drink, and do not keep worrying.

Philippians 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

“When thou hast any difficult business in hand, and art doubtful of the success; or when thou knowest not what course to take, for the accomplishing of thy honest designs; leave all to the Lord, and trust to him in pious and upright courses, that he will direct and assist thee, and bring things to a good issue.” Patrick/Lowth/Whitby/Lowman Commentary

“Commit thy way unto the Lord. Roll the whole burden of life upon the Lord. Leave with Jehovah not thy present fretfulness merely, but all thy cares; in fact, submit the whole tenor of thy way to him. Cast away anxiety, resign thy will, submit thy judgment, leave all with the God of all. What a medicine is this for expelling envy! What a high attainment does this fourth precept indicate! How blessed must he be who lives every day in obedience to it! Trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. Our destiny shall be joyfully accomplished if we confidently entrust all to our Lord. We may serenely sing --

"Thy way, not mine, O Lord, However dark it be; O lead me by thine own right hand, Choose out the path for me."

"Smooth let it be or rough, It will be still the best; Winding or straight, it matters not, It leads me to thy rest."

"I dare not choose my lot, I would not if I might; But choose Thou for me, O my God, So shall I walk aright."

"Take thou my cup, and it With joy or sorrow fill; As ever best to thee may seem, Choose thou my good and ill."

The ploughman sows and harrows, and then leaves the harvest to God. What can he do else? He cannot cover the heavens with clouds, or command the rain, or bring forth the sun or create the dew. He does well to leave the whole matter with God; and so to all of us it is truest wisdom, having obediently trusted in God, to leave results in his hands, and expect a blessed issue.” Treasury of David

We are to choose to trust God, we are to find our delight in Him alone, and we are to commit to His perfect plan, having confidence that He is in control.

After Naomi tells Ruth to wait, she gives more insight into the character of Boaz, for the man will not rest until he has settled it today.

Determination. Follow-through. True to his word. Boaz can be counted on to take care of the matter as he said he would. He does not lay his responsibility aside for someone else to figure out. He is not idle, wasting time, hoping the matter will resolve itself. He does what is needed to follow through with his promise to Ruth.

Boaz’s actions remind us of his integrity and faithfulness. We see wisdom in waiting upon God’s answers and direction when we have done all that we could. We see wisdom in the necessity to be diligent to take care of the responsibility we have. Both of these things are necessary in our walk with God.

What is your response?

Patience, Faithfulness and Diligence

Ruth 3:16-18

How often might we think to ourselves that we need to do something to fix a situation or to figure out an answer NOW?

Trust <batach> to hie for refuge, to be confident or sure, to put confidence, to (make to) hope.

Do you seek to act according to His will?
Do you believe God will not fail you?

Be at rest right where God has you. Your security is in God, not in circumstances.

Are you able to find delight in the Lord?

Are we open to a different direction than perhaps the one we have entertained?
Do we allow ourselves to consider an alternative that we had not thought of?
Are we able to trust in God when His direction does not make sense in our mind?