Ruth: A Story Of Redemption By Cailin Leacock Намуна

At His Word

We can only imagine how much fear Ruth had when she went to Boaz. It took tremendous courage for her, as she was most likely unfamiliar with Jewish customs. In a moment of uncertainty, Boaz speaks peace into her situation and undoubtedly into Ruth’s heart.

Ruth is being quite bold in what she requests: that Boaz redeem her and save her. Boaz was well within his rights to reject Ruth and to ask her to leave. He could also have used this opportunity to take advantage of Ruth and her vulnerability.

Even though Boaz was limited in what he could do for Ruth (since there was someone ahead of Boaz who was in line to redeem her), he set out to do whatever he could to make sure that justice would prevail for Naomi and Ruth.

Jesus also left us with a promise: the promise of the Holy Spirit who would come and be our Helper and Comforter. “The Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and remind you of everything I have said to you” (John 14:26, NIV).

Giving Ruth food was a way for Boaz to provide for Ruth and Naomi. He loads her up with barley before he sends her back home. This was not just provision—the barley serves as a gift for Naomi. (Remember, it was customary for a gift to be given to the bride and her family.) This would also have let Naomi know that Boaz had accepted Ruth’s request.

Jesus does not just meet our needs, He supersedes them. When we come to Him, we come broken and with nothing, but, just like Ruth, we leave with enough to be a blessing to others: “My God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:19, NIV).

Consider how your life has been enriched since you met Jesus.