Journeying Through Ruth: Part 2

Dear Reader,

Thank you for joining me on my journey through the wonderful book of Ruth. Please endeavor to read through the story in your Bible as we move along. Be blessed!

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This is the story of Ruth going out to look for food and in the process ending up in Boaz’s field. It is a story of the blessings of hard work and being at the right place at the right time.

Reading the book of Ruth with a bit more of depth has opened my eyes to a plethora of wonderful lessons. In chapter 2, it gives us more insight into the character of Ruth. In vs 2, Ruth displays innovation and takes the initiative to “go out into the fields to gather leftover grain…” To me, this sort of shows that Ruth had probably been thinking of how she could provide for her and Naomi and finally came up with this idea. It got me asking, what am I doing with my hands? I must not sit down idly, I must be productive. In vs 3, she happened to find herself in the field of Boaz, who was related to her late father-in-law. Boaz was a godly man. To me, this shows that being at the right place at the right time positions me for God’s blessings. I’m sure Ruth must have asked God to lead her to which field to glean from. Going further to vs 7, Ruth displays the character of hard work which was observed by the foreman. In vs 8, the way Boaz relates to Ruth is shown. I observed the absence of lust towards her. He treated her like family, calling her ‘daughter.’ He treated her with respect and dignity. She was vulnerable, but he didn’t take advantage of that. He treated her kindly and made sure she was well taken care of. He didn’t stop her from working, but he made the burden easier. Vs 11 is a powerful verse as well. Here, reputation is spoken about. Boaz tells Ruth how he has heard about the way she has taken care of Naomi since she lost her husband. Ruth, a foreigner, had etched for herself a good reputation and a good name. Her actions had spoken louder than her words. The Bible says, “A good name is better than riches” (Proverbs 22:1). People are watching my life. What do they say about me in my absence? I must desire a good name above all else.

Vs 19 still re-emphasizes the fact that when I am at the right place at the right time, I am positioned to receive God’s blessings. In vs 23, Ruth continued being productive and did not stop caring for Naomi. This is a challenge to me as a single woman. I must be productive both at home and outside the home.

I am really challenged by Ruth’s life.

#selah

Dear Lord,

Help me to be at the right place at the right time always. Order my steps Father. Help me to live a life that speaks well of the faith I profess. Lead me to men and women like Boaz who will not take advantage of me but will be kind to me. Help me to do same to others as well. Help me to be a productive woman while I wait for you to bring me to the man you are preparing for me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

I hope you are blessed. Please leave your comments and thoughts about this journey through Ruth below.

In Christ,

Ishanpepe