Read Ruth 2 v 1-12
- - How do the fortunes of Naomi and Ruth begin to change?
The writer doesn't explicitly tell us that God is at work. It does look as though Ruth is simply extremely fortunate. But in fact, we're seeing God's hidden hand blessing her--the LORD is, as Boaz wanted for all his workers (v 4), with her.
.............................................
APPLY
Ruth and Naomi don't know the outcome of these events. But from God's perspective, the outcome is certain. There are twists and turns, ups and downs, in the story, but we know where it's going and who's in control.
So what about our own lives? Most of the time, we can't see them from the viewpoint of the sovereign God. But we can apply what we learn from Ruth. We may laugh and cry at the ups and downs of our life story, but we can know where our life is going and who's in control.
- - In which part of your life is this particularly reassuring today?
.............................................
Re-read verse 12
- - How does Boaz describe God?
- - In chapter 11 it seemed that Ruth was risking her own security and well-being to show loyalty to Naomi. But how does Boaz describe her actions at the end of the verse?
- - So why was Ruth's decision, however costly and apparently risky, a wise one?
God's people
Look at how Boaz treats his workers, and how he treats Ruth.
- - How does he reflect the character of the God who is a "refuge?"
It's wonderful to see that God works through His people to be a refuge for Ruth. He gives Boaz the privilege of being the way this vulnerable woman is cared for.
.............................................
TIME OUT
Boaz's mother was a woman called Rahab (Matthew 1 v 5). Read her story in Joshua 2 v 1-21 and 6 v 15-25.
- - What do you think Boaz learned about God and His character from his mother's story?
- - How does this seem to be influencing his treatment of Ruth?
.............................................
PRAY
Use verse 12 to thank and praise God; to confess times when you have sought refuge elsewhere; and to ask God to open your eyes to see His loving, sovereign care of you.
.............................................
This devotional is taken from Explore—a daily Bible-reading devotional from The Good Book Company which enables you to engage with Scripture and which will encourage, equip and inspire you to live for Christ. Explore features contributions from pastors such as Dr Timothy Keller, Mike McKinley and Tim Chester.
Click here and enter the code bstexplore61 when you check out to get the next quarter’s Explore for $5.84, a 10% discount.
Click here and enter bstexploresub when you check out to buy a year’s worth at 25% off—just $16.
Keep a record of what God is teaching you with "My Bible" at BibleStudyTools.com
