Ruth humbled herself to the bidding of Naomi, who she loved dearly. She left her homeland and accompanied the agonizing widow to Bethlehem. She went to work in the fields to provide for Naomi, where she also met Boaz.
The time has come for threshing; separating the good grain from the chaff. Boaz would be out on the threshing floor, where he would also be spending the night. It is at this time that Naomi chooses to find what Boaz will do with Ruth.
First, she needs Ruth to do what she says. Ruth had proven faithful in smaller things, and now she is tested with a greater commitment. As we have seen, Ruth is faithful to the very end. She will go to the threshing floor to find out what Boaz will do with her. And this is the second part of the test: exactly what will Boaz do?
Ruth 3:6 And she went down unto the floor, and did according to all that her mother in law bade her.
3:7 And when Boaz had eaten and drunk, and his heart was merry, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of corn: and she came softly, and uncovered his feet, and laid her down.
Do you suppose that Boaz knew he was being watched? He was a marked man, and Ruth set her sights on him. She watched patiently until he went to lie down. Then she made her move. She uncovered his feet and laid down.
What she did is what we all must do. There comes a time when we are faced with that same decision: to place ourselves at the feet of the Redeemer. There is no other place for us to go. And in a sense, it always involves an element of risk. We want to be accepted by Him, but there is the reality of rejection. Jesus Christ will never reject those who come to Him, but your friends will reject you. Your family will reject you. You may have to change jobs. The reality is that as this world rejected Jesus, it will also reject those who belong to Jesus.
Ruth placed herself at the feet of one who held the power of redemption. Unlike Jesus, who promises that of all who come to Him, He will cast out nothing, Boaz is a mere human. As far as Ruth knew, he may not accept her. But did that stop her? The possibility of rejection did not stop Ruth. She did as Naomi told her, and did not allow the opportunity to pass without taking action.
It just occurred to me that there is a story in the New Testament where Jesus actually did reject someone.
Matthew 15:22 And, behold, a woman of Canaan came out of the same coasts, and cried unto him, saying, Have mercy on me, O Lord, thou Son of David; my daughter is grievously vexed with a devil. 15:23 But he answered her not a word.
Jesus went about His business as if she were not even there. To make matters worse, His disciples tried to have her removed!
And his disciples came and besought him, saying, Send her away; for she crieth after us.
Even Jesus Himself told her that he was not there to help her.
15:24 But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.
The woman was rejected. She was not an Israelite, and Jesus came to minister to the house of Israel. She may have already known this, but that did not stop her from trying. It gets worse.
Matthew 15:25 Then came she and worshipped him, saying, Lord, help me.
This woman is desperate. She throws herself at His feet and worships Him, pleading for help. Then He drops this bombshell:
Matthew 15:26 But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the children's bread, and to cast it to dogs.
While some may take that to heart, and walk off griping and complaining because of these words of Jesus (He called her a dog!), we might learn something from her response. This woman will not give up, but she knows her place.
Matthew 15:27 And she said, Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters' table.
We appoach our Redeemer in times of desperation. Even though He may reject us (But He is on our side!), we are to throw ourselves at His feet. Job 13:15 Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him:
That attitude of humility the Lord will hear. He gives grace to the humble. As for this woman, Jesus heard her, and granted her request.
Matthew 15:28 Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour.
Ruth was humble. She did not go down to that threshing floor as some self-serving opportunist to gain something from Boaz for her own benefit. She obeyed Naomi, and placed herself at the mercy of Boaz. What will he do with her that night on the threshing floor?
Ruth 3:8 And it came to pass at midnight, that the man was afraid, and turned himself: and, behold, a woman lay at his feet.
If Boaz was asleep before, I bet he didn't sleep a wink the rest of that night!
Ruth 3:9 And he said, Who art thou? And she answered, I am Ruth thine handmaid: spread therefore thy skirt over thine handmaid; for thou art a near kinsman.
Don't you love how God works? This is not about making gradual decisions, with time to think things over. You find yourself suddenly confronted with the truth, and have to decide what to do. What is Boaz going to do? Suddenly there is not only a woman at his feet in the middle of the night, but now she wants him to take her in under his covering!
So he has a decision. Hers is already made. What will Boaz do with Ruth?
Here is a clue: That night on the threshing floor, the good grain was separated from the chaff, which was carried off by the wind. Ruth was by no means chaff.
What are you?
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
She Went Down
Ruth 3:5 And she said unto her, All that thou sayest unto me I will do.
Ruth 3:6 And she went down unto the floor, and did according to all that her mother in law bade her.
Ruth is an unusual person. Naomi had given her some very specific instructions. These instructions were not only detailed, but required a combination of boldness and humility. Yet Ruth merely replies, All that thou sayest unto me I will do. How many of us would be able to do that? Do you remember another time when that sentence was used?
Exodus 19:7 And Moses came and called for the elders of the people, and laid before their faces all these words which the LORD commanded him.
19:8 And all the people answered together, and said, All that the LORD hath spoken we will do. And Moses returned the words of the people unto the LORD.
How many who made that statement actually kept that promise? We can be full of promises, and many times we have very good intentions when we make them. Yet how many end up in the pile labeled, unfulfilled? It is good not to make very many promises, as the history of the human race is filled with broken ones: and we are humans. Someone has said that the smallest deed is better than the grandest intention. Now there is something worth remembering.
If Ruth could be marked by one character trait, it might be faithfulness. Ruth was good on her word. What she said, she did. She fulfilled her purpose. But mark this as well: the purpose that became hers was not of herself. What moved her to do what she did came from someone other than herself. She was moved by her love for old widow. She did what the old widow told her to do. How small and insignificant is that?
People talk of having vision, and move to fulfill their vision. They work hard, and move others as well, to enable their vision to become a reality. Entire cities have been built. Empires have risen. Armies have been raised. And much of it in the name of God. How mighty and awesome they appear to the human eye!
Of cities, we are told that they will be thrown down. Of this world's armies, they will be defeated. The empires and kingdoms of this world will crumble. And Jesus praises an otherwise unknown widow, who tosses two mites into the coffer. God tells the story of an othewise unknown family, whose men died, leaving their women destitute. And out of death and despair, He elevates some woman of a people not chosen. God glorifies Ruth.
Ruth 3:6 And she went down
In order to carry out her promise, Ruth had to descend. She had to go down. Lowering one's self is normally not a desireable thing. Yet it is a requirement. One who magnifies self cannot be said to be truly submitted to the Master.
Philippians 2:3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.
2:4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
How much has been done, and proclaimed to be for the glory of God? How much has been done, and proclaimed to be for the glory of Jesus Christ? Yet all of it through strife and vainglory. Not too very long ago one claimed that in a vision, Jesus Christ Himself told him to build a city of faith. It closed down before it was completed. The buildings are there, but they belong to someone else now. Vainglory.
How great the vision! How awesome the buildings! And Jesus says, Do you see that widow? (Luke 21:2-3)
Ruth not only saw the widow, she served the widow. And in doing so, she had to descend a little lower than most of us would be willing. Do you see Jesus?
Philippians 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
2:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:
2:7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:
2:8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.
Ruth 3:6 And she went down unto the floor, and did according to all that her mother in law bade her.
Ruth 3:6 And she went down unto the floor, and did according to all that her mother in law bade her.
Ruth is an unusual person. Naomi had given her some very specific instructions. These instructions were not only detailed, but required a combination of boldness and humility. Yet Ruth merely replies, All that thou sayest unto me I will do. How many of us would be able to do that? Do you remember another time when that sentence was used?
Exodus 19:7 And Moses came and called for the elders of the people, and laid before their faces all these words which the LORD commanded him.
19:8 And all the people answered together, and said, All that the LORD hath spoken we will do. And Moses returned the words of the people unto the LORD.
How many who made that statement actually kept that promise? We can be full of promises, and many times we have very good intentions when we make them. Yet how many end up in the pile labeled, unfulfilled? It is good not to make very many promises, as the history of the human race is filled with broken ones: and we are humans. Someone has said that the smallest deed is better than the grandest intention. Now there is something worth remembering.
If Ruth could be marked by one character trait, it might be faithfulness. Ruth was good on her word. What she said, she did. She fulfilled her purpose. But mark this as well: the purpose that became hers was not of herself. What moved her to do what she did came from someone other than herself. She was moved by her love for old widow. She did what the old widow told her to do. How small and insignificant is that?
People talk of having vision, and move to fulfill their vision. They work hard, and move others as well, to enable their vision to become a reality. Entire cities have been built. Empires have risen. Armies have been raised. And much of it in the name of God. How mighty and awesome they appear to the human eye!
Of cities, we are told that they will be thrown down. Of this world's armies, they will be defeated. The empires and kingdoms of this world will crumble. And Jesus praises an otherwise unknown widow, who tosses two mites into the coffer. God tells the story of an othewise unknown family, whose men died, leaving their women destitute. And out of death and despair, He elevates some woman of a people not chosen. God glorifies Ruth.
Ruth 3:6 And she went down
In order to carry out her promise, Ruth had to descend. She had to go down. Lowering one's self is normally not a desireable thing. Yet it is a requirement. One who magnifies self cannot be said to be truly submitted to the Master.
Philippians 2:3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.
2:4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
How much has been done, and proclaimed to be for the glory of God? How much has been done, and proclaimed to be for the glory of Jesus Christ? Yet all of it through strife and vainglory. Not too very long ago one claimed that in a vision, Jesus Christ Himself told him to build a city of faith. It closed down before it was completed. The buildings are there, but they belong to someone else now. Vainglory.
How great the vision! How awesome the buildings! And Jesus says, Do you see that widow? (Luke 21:2-3)
Ruth not only saw the widow, she served the widow. And in doing so, she had to descend a little lower than most of us would be willing. Do you see Jesus?
Philippians 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
2:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:
2:7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:
2:8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.
Ruth 3:6 And she went down unto the floor, and did according to all that her mother in law bade her.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Finding Rest: All that thou sayest unto me I will do.
Finding Rest: All that thou sayest unto me I will do.
Ruth 3:1 Then Naomi her mother in law said unto her, My daughter, shall I not seek rest for thee, that it may be well with thee?
3:2 And now is not Boaz of our kindred, with whose maidens thou wast? Behold, he winnoweth barley to night in the threshingfloor.
3:3 Wash thyself therefore, and anoint thee, and put thy raiment upon thee, and get thee down to the floor: but make not thyself known unto the man, until he shall have done eating and drinking.
3:4 And it shall be, when he lieth down, that thou shalt mark the place where he shall lie, and thou shalt go in, and uncover his feet, and lay thee down; and he will tell thee what thou shalt do.
3:5 And she said unto her, All that thou sayest unto me I will do.
It is Naomi's desire that Ruth rest from her labors. Ruth had already demonstrated her faithfulness to Naomi. Ruth placed Naomi's concerns above her own, and cared for her.
Who knows of the young men that Ruth had met among the reapers? Who knows what potential futures she sacrificed? Ruth certainly had her own will, and probably let that slip out a little:
Ruth 2:21 And Ruth the Moabitess said, He said unto me also, Thou shalt keep fast by my young men, until they have ended all my harvest.
Yet her mother-in-law gave her different advice.
Ruth 2:22 And Naomi said unto Ruth her daughter in law, It is good, my daughter, that thou go out with his maidens
And though Ruth had her own desires, she obeyed.
Ruth 2:23 So she kept fast by the maidens of Boaz to glean unto the end of barley harvest and of wheat harvest; and dwelt with her mother in law.
Now, Ruth is given more directions as to what she should do. When we read this story, is there not a progression? There is: and on more than one front. Ruth has been more than obedient. She has been submissive.
One may be obedient in doing what he/she is commanded to do, yet still maintain rebellion in the heart. Submission, on the other hand, goes beyond mere obedience. Submission is a surrender of the will. It carries with it an idea of weakness. Ruth was submissive to Naomi. In one sense, we might say that Ruth was weak and Naomi was strong in their relationship.
And she said unto her, All that thou sayest unto me I will do.
Ruth's obedience to Naomi's every command is a result of a submission that took place long before.
Ruth 1:14 And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth clave unto her.
1:15 And she said, Behold, thy sister in law is gone back unto her people, and unto her gods: return thou after thy sister in law.
1:16 And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God:
1:17 Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me.
It was Ruth's submission and commitment to Naomi's welfare that led her to work in the fields: by her own desire and without commandment to be obedient. She did good without being told to do so. No command requiring obedience, but simple submission born out of love. Is there even a comparison?
Ruth 2:2 And Ruth the Moabitess said unto Naomi, Let me now go to the field, and glean ears of corn after him in whose sight I shall find grace. And she said unto her, Go, my daughter.
Ruth submitted herself to Naomi. She was committed to Naomi's welfare. When Ruth went out into the fields, Naomi was magnified. Ruth brought honor to herself by her conduct, and that reflected back on the house of Naomi. When she returned home, Naomi was glorified. Ruth brought in more than what was expected.
In all things Ruth had already proven herself. Now for the progression. Naomi has some specifics for Ruth to do. It requires some boldness. It requires submission at a new and different level. It will not be easy and will require preparation. There is an element of risk.
But is that not how God works with all of those He desires to conform to the image of His Son? Jesus was born to a single purpose. He lived His life in preparation for that purpose. Do you think it will be any different for you?
1 Peter 2:21 For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:
Maybe you are still in preparation, but know your calling. Are you submissive to your King or are you just obedient to a Law? Submission will take you places mere obedience cannot begin to fathom.
But understand the preparation and progression in your own life. Your time will come. And the end result is REST. But it will not be without willingly becoming weak that He may be strong. It will not come without trusting Him over that fear because of what is at risk. It will not come without humility. But when it becomes your turn, will you be able to answer your King as Ruth said to Naomi:
All that thou sayest unto me I will do.
Ruth 3:1 Then Naomi her mother in law said unto her, My daughter, shall I not seek rest for thee, that it may be well with thee?
3:2 And now is not Boaz of our kindred, with whose maidens thou wast? Behold, he winnoweth barley to night in the threshingfloor.
3:3 Wash thyself therefore, and anoint thee, and put thy raiment upon thee, and get thee down to the floor: but make not thyself known unto the man, until he shall have done eating and drinking.
3:4 And it shall be, when he lieth down, that thou shalt mark the place where he shall lie, and thou shalt go in, and uncover his feet, and lay thee down; and he will tell thee what thou shalt do.
3:5 And she said unto her, All that thou sayest unto me I will do.
It is Naomi's desire that Ruth rest from her labors. Ruth had already demonstrated her faithfulness to Naomi. Ruth placed Naomi's concerns above her own, and cared for her.
Who knows of the young men that Ruth had met among the reapers? Who knows what potential futures she sacrificed? Ruth certainly had her own will, and probably let that slip out a little:
Ruth 2:21 And Ruth the Moabitess said, He said unto me also, Thou shalt keep fast by my young men, until they have ended all my harvest.
Yet her mother-in-law gave her different advice.
Ruth 2:22 And Naomi said unto Ruth her daughter in law, It is good, my daughter, that thou go out with his maidens
And though Ruth had her own desires, she obeyed.
Ruth 2:23 So she kept fast by the maidens of Boaz to glean unto the end of barley harvest and of wheat harvest; and dwelt with her mother in law.
Now, Ruth is given more directions as to what she should do. When we read this story, is there not a progression? There is: and on more than one front. Ruth has been more than obedient. She has been submissive.
One may be obedient in doing what he/she is commanded to do, yet still maintain rebellion in the heart. Submission, on the other hand, goes beyond mere obedience. Submission is a surrender of the will. It carries with it an idea of weakness. Ruth was submissive to Naomi. In one sense, we might say that Ruth was weak and Naomi was strong in their relationship.
And she said unto her, All that thou sayest unto me I will do.
Ruth's obedience to Naomi's every command is a result of a submission that took place long before.
Ruth 1:14 And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth clave unto her.
1:15 And she said, Behold, thy sister in law is gone back unto her people, and unto her gods: return thou after thy sister in law.
1:16 And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God:
1:17 Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me.
It was Ruth's submission and commitment to Naomi's welfare that led her to work in the fields: by her own desire and without commandment to be obedient. She did good without being told to do so. No command requiring obedience, but simple submission born out of love. Is there even a comparison?
Ruth 2:2 And Ruth the Moabitess said unto Naomi, Let me now go to the field, and glean ears of corn after him in whose sight I shall find grace. And she said unto her, Go, my daughter.
Ruth submitted herself to Naomi. She was committed to Naomi's welfare. When Ruth went out into the fields, Naomi was magnified. Ruth brought honor to herself by her conduct, and that reflected back on the house of Naomi. When she returned home, Naomi was glorified. Ruth brought in more than what was expected.
In all things Ruth had already proven herself. Now for the progression. Naomi has some specifics for Ruth to do. It requires some boldness. It requires submission at a new and different level. It will not be easy and will require preparation. There is an element of risk.
But is that not how God works with all of those He desires to conform to the image of His Son? Jesus was born to a single purpose. He lived His life in preparation for that purpose. Do you think it will be any different for you?
1 Peter 2:21 For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:
Maybe you are still in preparation, but know your calling. Are you submissive to your King or are you just obedient to a Law? Submission will take you places mere obedience cannot begin to fathom.
But understand the preparation and progression in your own life. Your time will come. And the end result is REST. But it will not be without willingly becoming weak that He may be strong. It will not come without trusting Him over that fear because of what is at risk. It will not come without humility. But when it becomes your turn, will you be able to answer your King as Ruth said to Naomi:
All that thou sayest unto me I will do.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Seeking Rest
Ruth 3:1 Then Naomi her mother in law said unto her, My daughter, shall I not seek rest for thee, that it may be well with thee?
Naomi knows the Law. She knows that Boaz is a near kinsman, and a man of great honor and wealth. And she recognized the hand of God in bringing him into their lives at this time. Maybe she does not see that God drew them to Boaz. They are the ones who moved, not Boaz.
But knowing the Law, Naomi also knows the responsibility of family members in Israel.
Deuteronomy 25:5 If brethren dwell together, and one of them die, and have no child, the wife of the dead shall not marry without unto a stranger: her husband's brother shall go in unto her, and take her to him to wife, and perform the duty of an husband's brother unto her.
25:6 And it shall be, that the firstborn which she beareth shall succeed in the name of his brother which is dead, that his name be not put out of Israel.
Naomi wants Boaz to marry Ruth, and begins to tell her how to get things started in that direction.
Ruth 3:2 And now is not Boaz of our kindred, with whose maidens thou wast? Behold, he winnoweth barley to night in the threshingfloor.
3:3 Wash thyself therefore, and anoint thee, and put thy raiment upon thee, and get thee down to the floor: but make not thyself known unto the man, until he shall have done eating and drinking.
3:4 And it shall be, when he lieth down, that thou shalt mark the place where he shall lie, and thou shalt go in, and uncover his feet, and lay thee down; and he will tell thee what thou shalt do.
It is interesting what Naomi tells Ruth to do. First she explains again just who Boaz is in terms of family relations. She already made that known back in 2:20. She then instructs Ruth to get cleaned up, dressed up, and smelling good, and go to the place where Boaz is working: but then strategically wait for the best opportunity to get his undivided attention.
What she tells Ruth to do then is perplexing. After Boaz lays down to sleep, she is to approach him and uncover his feet. Then she is to lay down and wait for him to instruct her as to what she should do. What is this thing with the Bible and feet?
Luke 7:37 And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster box of ointment,
7:38 And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment.
Luke 8:41 And, behold, there came a man named Jairus, and he was a ruler of the synagogue: and he fell down at Jesus' feet, and besought him that he would come into his house:
Luke 10:38 Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house.
10:39 And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word.
John 11:32 Then when Mary was come where Jesus was, and saw him, she fell down at his feet, saying unto him, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.
John 13:3 Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he was come from God, and went to God;
13:4 He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself.
13:5 After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded.
Revelation 3:9 Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.
It obviously has something to do with submission. Ruth was to place herself in a position that graphically expressed her submission to Boaz. Exposing his feet and then lying down was an unmistakable picture and Boaz would not miss the meaning. Ruth, at the direction of Naomi, is going to propose to Boaz.
Naomi hopes to gain a husband for Ruth, and a good one at that; maybe what we would consider too old, but a noble man, an honorable man, a wealthy man. Ruth would be in good hands with Boaz. And Naomi calls this, seeking rest.
We who know the rest of the story also know what happens. Ruth enters into that rest. It is interesting that marriage is considered rest.
Ephesians 5:30 For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.
5:31 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.
5:32 This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.
Matthew 11:28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
True rest: It begins at the feet of Jesus Christ.
Naomi knows the Law. She knows that Boaz is a near kinsman, and a man of great honor and wealth. And she recognized the hand of God in bringing him into their lives at this time. Maybe she does not see that God drew them to Boaz. They are the ones who moved, not Boaz.
But knowing the Law, Naomi also knows the responsibility of family members in Israel.
Deuteronomy 25:5 If brethren dwell together, and one of them die, and have no child, the wife of the dead shall not marry without unto a stranger: her husband's brother shall go in unto her, and take her to him to wife, and perform the duty of an husband's brother unto her.
25:6 And it shall be, that the firstborn which she beareth shall succeed in the name of his brother which is dead, that his name be not put out of Israel.
Naomi wants Boaz to marry Ruth, and begins to tell her how to get things started in that direction.
Ruth 3:2 And now is not Boaz of our kindred, with whose maidens thou wast? Behold, he winnoweth barley to night in the threshingfloor.
3:3 Wash thyself therefore, and anoint thee, and put thy raiment upon thee, and get thee down to the floor: but make not thyself known unto the man, until he shall have done eating and drinking.
3:4 And it shall be, when he lieth down, that thou shalt mark the place where he shall lie, and thou shalt go in, and uncover his feet, and lay thee down; and he will tell thee what thou shalt do.
It is interesting what Naomi tells Ruth to do. First she explains again just who Boaz is in terms of family relations. She already made that known back in 2:20. She then instructs Ruth to get cleaned up, dressed up, and smelling good, and go to the place where Boaz is working: but then strategically wait for the best opportunity to get his undivided attention.
What she tells Ruth to do then is perplexing. After Boaz lays down to sleep, she is to approach him and uncover his feet. Then she is to lay down and wait for him to instruct her as to what she should do. What is this thing with the Bible and feet?
Luke 7:37 And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster box of ointment,
7:38 And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment.
Luke 8:41 And, behold, there came a man named Jairus, and he was a ruler of the synagogue: and he fell down at Jesus' feet, and besought him that he would come into his house:
Luke 10:38 Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house.
10:39 And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word.
John 11:32 Then when Mary was come where Jesus was, and saw him, she fell down at his feet, saying unto him, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.
John 13:3 Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he was come from God, and went to God;
13:4 He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself.
13:5 After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded.
Revelation 3:9 Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.
It obviously has something to do with submission. Ruth was to place herself in a position that graphically expressed her submission to Boaz. Exposing his feet and then lying down was an unmistakable picture and Boaz would not miss the meaning. Ruth, at the direction of Naomi, is going to propose to Boaz.
Naomi hopes to gain a husband for Ruth, and a good one at that; maybe what we would consider too old, but a noble man, an honorable man, a wealthy man. Ruth would be in good hands with Boaz. And Naomi calls this, seeking rest.
We who know the rest of the story also know what happens. Ruth enters into that rest. It is interesting that marriage is considered rest.
Ephesians 5:30 For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.
5:31 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.
5:32 This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.
Matthew 11:28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
True rest: It begins at the feet of Jesus Christ.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
God's Hand
Ruth 2:19 And her mother in law said unto her, Where hast thou gleaned to day? and where wroughtest thou? blessed be he that did take knowledge of thee. And she shewed her mother in law with whom she had wrought, and said, The man's name with whom I wrought to day is Boaz.
2:20 And Naomi said unto her daughter in law, Blessed be he of the LORD, who hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead. And Naomi said unto her, The man is near of kin unto us, one of our next kinsmen.
Not so very long ago, Naomi had other things to say concerning the LORD.
Ruth 1:21 I went out full, and the LORD hath brought me home again empty: why then call ye me Naomi, seeing the LORD hath testified against me, and the Almighty hath afflicted me?
Now she sees the hand of God working on her behalf. There is something to be learned here, and we can take this lesson and apply it to our own lives.
God was at work in Naomi's family from the beginning. He who works all things according to His purpose had a plan, and Naomi was living out part of that plan through her suffering. Many of the things we view negatively in this life are actually good and precious in God's sight. And while Naomi may not have appreciated that through her affliction, she did recognize God's hand working on her behalf through Boaz.
Ruth 2:21 And Ruth the Moabitess said, He said unto me also, Thou shalt keep fast by my young men, until they have ended all my harvest.
2:22 And Naomi said unto Ruth her daughter in law, It is good, my daughter, that thou go out with his maidens, that they meet thee not in any other field.
2:23 So she kept fast by the maidens of Boaz to glean unto the end of barley harvest and of wheat harvest; and dwelt with her mother in law.
Here is where we need to pay attention: Naomi acted upon her recognition of God working in her life. She saw God at work, and she began to join Him in what He was doing. The LORD extended His hand, and Naomi took it.
This passage also seems to reveal something about Ruth, possibly by way of her human weakness. Ruth had no man in her life, for the one she had was now dead. Loneliness can take a toll on any person. Most of us desire companionship, particularly from the opposite sex. Ruth was no different.
Notice what she told Naomi:
Ruth 2:21 And Ruth the Moabitess said, He said unto me also, Thou shalt keep fast by my young men, until they have ended all my harvest.
Let's go back a few verses and see what Boaz really told her:
Ruth 2:8 Then said Boaz unto Ruth, Hearest thou not, my daughter? Go not to glean in another field, neither go from hence, but abide here fast by my maidens:
Ruth has a will of her own, and she has desires. But as I continue to read this story, and watch as Ruth is obedient to her mother-in-law and listens to her rather than her own will, I am reminded of One who said, For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. (John 6:38}
2:20 And Naomi said unto her daughter in law, Blessed be he of the LORD, who hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead. And Naomi said unto her, The man is near of kin unto us, one of our next kinsmen.
Not so very long ago, Naomi had other things to say concerning the LORD.
Ruth 1:21 I went out full, and the LORD hath brought me home again empty: why then call ye me Naomi, seeing the LORD hath testified against me, and the Almighty hath afflicted me?
Now she sees the hand of God working on her behalf. There is something to be learned here, and we can take this lesson and apply it to our own lives.
God was at work in Naomi's family from the beginning. He who works all things according to His purpose had a plan, and Naomi was living out part of that plan through her suffering. Many of the things we view negatively in this life are actually good and precious in God's sight. And while Naomi may not have appreciated that through her affliction, she did recognize God's hand working on her behalf through Boaz.
Ruth 2:21 And Ruth the Moabitess said, He said unto me also, Thou shalt keep fast by my young men, until they have ended all my harvest.
2:22 And Naomi said unto Ruth her daughter in law, It is good, my daughter, that thou go out with his maidens, that they meet thee not in any other field.
2:23 So she kept fast by the maidens of Boaz to glean unto the end of barley harvest and of wheat harvest; and dwelt with her mother in law.
Here is where we need to pay attention: Naomi acted upon her recognition of God working in her life. She saw God at work, and she began to join Him in what He was doing. The LORD extended His hand, and Naomi took it.
This passage also seems to reveal something about Ruth, possibly by way of her human weakness. Ruth had no man in her life, for the one she had was now dead. Loneliness can take a toll on any person. Most of us desire companionship, particularly from the opposite sex. Ruth was no different.
Notice what she told Naomi:
Ruth 2:21 And Ruth the Moabitess said, He said unto me also, Thou shalt keep fast by my young men, until they have ended all my harvest.
Let's go back a few verses and see what Boaz really told her:
Ruth 2:8 Then said Boaz unto Ruth, Hearest thou not, my daughter? Go not to glean in another field, neither go from hence, but abide here fast by my maidens:
Ruth has a will of her own, and she has desires. But as I continue to read this story, and watch as Ruth is obedient to her mother-in-law and listens to her rather than her own will, I am reminded of One who said, For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. (John 6:38}
Monday, October 12, 2009
Ruth 2:15-20 The Beginning of the Harvest
The Beginning of the Harvest
Ruth 2:15 And she rose up to glean. And Boaz commanded his young men, saying, She shall glean even between the sheaves, and you shall not cause her to be ashamed.
Ruth 2:16 And pulling you shall also pull out for her of the bundles, and shall leave; and she shall glean, and you shall not restrain her.
Ruth 2:17 And she gleaned in the field until the evening, and beat out that which she had gleaned. And it was about an ephah of barley.
Obviously these instructions went far beyond the normal generosity toward the poor. Boaz permits Ruth not only to glean among the sheaves (normally they would follow and pick up what was left behind), but he instructed his men to pull out extra for her. Boaz had his eye on Ruth, and she was getting far more than she expected from his hand.
An ephah of barley: roughly 20+ pounds!
Ruth wasn't a beggar. She worked for what she received, and that not for herself.
Ruth 2:18 And she took it up and went to the city. And her mother-in-law saw that which she had gleaned. And she brought out and gave to her that which she had reserved after she was satisfied.
Ruth's concern was Naomi. Whatever drew Ruth to love this woman so much? What kindness had Naomi demonstrated before her great sorrow? Was she once filled with joy that overflowed into the lives of those around her? Scripture does not reveal much here. Ruth is the focus, and we see her at work loving someone else more than her own life.
And she is blessed.
And she shared her blessing. She shared it with Naomi, who could not possibly pay her back. Or could she?
Remember how Naomi told both of those girls to return to their own land? Remember how she told them that she had no other sons for them? You would think Naomi had nothing to offer. Blessings can come from seemingly empty places.
Ruth 2:19 And her mother in law said unto her, Where have you gleaned to day? and where have you worked? blessed is he that did take knowledge of you. And she told her mother in law with whom she had worked, and said, The man's name with whom I worked today is Boaz.
I suppose somewhere in that empty waste that Naomi thought of her life, something began to live again. One word, and bright beams of radiance began to fill her being. Let there be light.
Ruth 2:20 And Naomi said unto her daughter in law, Blessed be he of the LORD, who hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead. And Naomi said unto her, The man is near of kin unto us, one of our next kinsmen.
Ruth 2:15 And she rose up to glean. And Boaz commanded his young men, saying, She shall glean even between the sheaves, and you shall not cause her to be ashamed.
Ruth 2:16 And pulling you shall also pull out for her of the bundles, and shall leave; and she shall glean, and you shall not restrain her.
Ruth 2:17 And she gleaned in the field until the evening, and beat out that which she had gleaned. And it was about an ephah of barley.
Obviously these instructions went far beyond the normal generosity toward the poor. Boaz permits Ruth not only to glean among the sheaves (normally they would follow and pick up what was left behind), but he instructed his men to pull out extra for her. Boaz had his eye on Ruth, and she was getting far more than she expected from his hand.
An ephah of barley: roughly 20+ pounds!
Ruth wasn't a beggar. She worked for what she received, and that not for herself.
Ruth 2:18 And she took it up and went to the city. And her mother-in-law saw that which she had gleaned. And she brought out and gave to her that which she had reserved after she was satisfied.
Ruth's concern was Naomi. Whatever drew Ruth to love this woman so much? What kindness had Naomi demonstrated before her great sorrow? Was she once filled with joy that overflowed into the lives of those around her? Scripture does not reveal much here. Ruth is the focus, and we see her at work loving someone else more than her own life.
And she is blessed.
And she shared her blessing. She shared it with Naomi, who could not possibly pay her back. Or could she?
Remember how Naomi told both of those girls to return to their own land? Remember how she told them that she had no other sons for them? You would think Naomi had nothing to offer. Blessings can come from seemingly empty places.
Ruth 2:19 And her mother in law said unto her, Where have you gleaned to day? and where have you worked? blessed is he that did take knowledge of you. And she told her mother in law with whom she had worked, and said, The man's name with whom I worked today is Boaz.
I suppose somewhere in that empty waste that Naomi thought of her life, something began to live again. One word, and bright beams of radiance began to fill her being. Let there be light.
Ruth 2:20 And Naomi said unto her daughter in law, Blessed be he of the LORD, who hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead. And Naomi said unto her, The man is near of kin unto us, one of our next kinsmen.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
The Blessing Begins
Ruth 14 Now Boaz said to her at mealtime, “Come here, and eat of the bread, and dip your piece of bread in the vinegar.” So she sat beside the reapers, and he passed parched grain to her; and she ate and was satisfied, and kept some back.
Boaz has a place for Ruth at His table. She does not expect it, nor does she have the audacity to attempt to sit at his table. But He has his eye on her. He knows her heart, and He has a place for her. She is invited to sit among the reapers. That would be the equivalent to sitting with Jesus among His angels, if you can read between the lines.
Many attempt to claim the name of Jesus for themselves, and only end up taking his name in vain. It is where your heart is that will determine where you end up. Ruth cared for her mother-in-law. She chose the God of her mother-in-law over the gods of her own kinfolk. And the story of Ruth reached the ears of Boaz (whose name means "Strength").
What is your story? What kind of news does the King have concerning you? Will you be invited to His table? Ruth is the example of one who is pleasing to her Redeemer. Take note of Ruth.
Notice that she even saves some of the food to take to Naomi. Even as she receives her blessing and is satisfied, Naomi is on her mind. Ruth is going to share her blessing with Naomi.
15 And when she rose up to glean, Boaz commanded his young men, saying, “Let her glean even among the sheaves, and do not reproach her.
16 Also let grain from the bundles fall purposely for her; leave it that she may glean, and do not rebuke her.”
Ruth started off gleaning after the reapers. Now Boaz is going to increase her blessing. Ruth has the favor of Boaz. Again, Ruth is the example to follow if you desire the favor of our Redeemer.
Boaz has a place for Ruth at His table. She does not expect it, nor does she have the audacity to attempt to sit at his table. But He has his eye on her. He knows her heart, and He has a place for her. She is invited to sit among the reapers. That would be the equivalent to sitting with Jesus among His angels, if you can read between the lines.
Many attempt to claim the name of Jesus for themselves, and only end up taking his name in vain. It is where your heart is that will determine where you end up. Ruth cared for her mother-in-law. She chose the God of her mother-in-law over the gods of her own kinfolk. And the story of Ruth reached the ears of Boaz (whose name means "Strength").
What is your story? What kind of news does the King have concerning you? Will you be invited to His table? Ruth is the example of one who is pleasing to her Redeemer. Take note of Ruth.
Notice that she even saves some of the food to take to Naomi. Even as she receives her blessing and is satisfied, Naomi is on her mind. Ruth is going to share her blessing with Naomi.
15 And when she rose up to glean, Boaz commanded his young men, saying, “Let her glean even among the sheaves, and do not reproach her.
16 Also let grain from the bundles fall purposely for her; leave it that she may glean, and do not rebuke her.”
Ruth started off gleaning after the reapers. Now Boaz is going to increase her blessing. Ruth has the favor of Boaz. Again, Ruth is the example to follow if you desire the favor of our Redeemer.
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