God’s Providence
The story of Boaz and Ruth is such an amazing example of our relationship with the Lord. This Jewish redeemer from the tribe of Judah, who possesses the finest of qualities is a picture of the Lord Jesus Christ. He extends such grace to Ruth who feels so unworthy of it. Then, we discover that Boaz knew all about Ruth and her commitment before she knew anything about him! God prepared it all in advance.
God’s Providence in Our Lives
Boaz knew of her heart and the sacrifice she had made to follow Naomi and the Lord. Doesn’t Jesus know who we are even before we know Him? It also shows us that it is not necessary to blow our own trumpet before God or man. Not before God because He is already entirely aware of all we do and will reward us accordingly; or before man because it’s not likely he’s at all interested!
Isn’t it refreshing when you see people who are committed and faithful to the Lord, behind the scenes, where no one but the Lord is watching? Ruth was like this. What she did was done out of love and devotion and not in trying to make a name for herself. It’s the little Pharisee in each of us that wants to be seen as something great before man.
In Ruth we see a remarkable combination. She is someone who is dedicated and loyal without trying to draw attention to herself, as well as humble and dependent upon grace in her relationship with Boaz and he, like our Lord, gave her more than she expected.
God’s Intervention
In Ruth 2:15-16 we see him telling his servants to purposely drop grain just for her and to let her drink water they’ve drawn from his well. In fact, by the end of chapter two we have seen him invite her to have lunch with him, and she had collected the equivalent of 22 liters of barley. That was enough food for 10 days for her and Naomi. He blessed her abundantly and God will do the same for us.
Praying for God to Intervene
We have to be willing to be sold out for Him. How can we do that?
- Have faith in His promises.
- Walk in His spirit.
- Praise Him for His providence.
Providence of God
When we set goals we need to be sure it is what God would have us to do and be willing to work in the ways He tells us to. Ruth knew she had to glean the fields for food because God set up that law through Moses.
God blessed her obedience by giving her more than she could have ever expected. So when we consider our goals let’s keep in mind we must work to achieve them according to His will and then when He blesses it, we must give Him the glory for it.
RESPOND WITH PRAYER FOR DIVINE PROVIDENCE
Dear Lord, thank You for Your Word and the many faithful saints who have shown us examples of integrity, loyalty, and hope. Amen.
RENEWING RESOURCES:
The Bare Bones Bible Handbook by Jim George—Grow in your knowledge of the Bible so you can better answer others’ questions with this helpful Bible study tool!
REFLECT ON DIVINE INTERVENTION IN THE BIBLE
Life Lessons from Ruth:
- What you think to be a tragedy is God’s opportunity to show Himself faithful, and your opportunity to exhibit godly character.
- Your abundance is an opportunity to help the less fortunate.
- God honors faithfulness.
REMEMBER:
When we set goals, we need to be sure that it is what God would have us to do and be willing to work in the ways He tells us to.
The story of Boaz and Ruth is such an amazing example of our relationship with the Lord.