Provision in the Fields
Teaching Pastor; Staff Governing Elder; Staff Director
In this passage, we meet Boaz—a man of character, wealth, and status. Although he is vastly different from Ruth, God is weaving their stories together in a way that magnifies their mutual reflection of his lovingkindness.
Study Questions
Application
Gratitude is essential to our growth as believers, even in dark moments. How can you cultivate the discipline of gratitude in your life? Spend some time now expressing gratefulness to God.
We will all experience seasons of being full and seasons of being empty. Which are you in now?
- If you are empty, how can you look to God for favor?
- If you are full, how can you align yourself with what God is doing in the world and pour out your resources for others?
Key Points
Although Ruth is in a dark place, she takes initiative and steps out in courage. Yet she also knows she will need God’s favor.
God’s design for Israel’s economy creates space for the poor and guards against excessive wealth. This reflects his value of those on the margins.
For Ruth, gratitude is not contingent on having the good life she desires.
Boaz aligns himself with Ruth because he sees her depleting herself to bless Naomi, and he perceives that God is doing something extraordinary.
God is a rewarder of faithfulness. He sees small moments of obedience and responds with even greater faithfulness to us.
While Naomi has been embittered by her loss, her faith is reignited when she sees Boaz’s kindness towards Ruth.