Conclusion

by John O'Malley

This book is a wonderful testament to how small decisions in a narrow place end up affecting generations to come. It would be wise to ponder your decisions in light of these things. 

It is no wonder that Obed’s great-grandson could review his family’s history and write under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6). 

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A Heritage of Grace

by John O'Malley

“Now these are the generations of Pharez: Pharez begat Hezron, And Hezron begat Ram, and Ram begat Amminadab, And Amminadab begat Nahshon, and Nahshon begat Salmon, And Salmon begat Boaz, and Boaz begat Obed, And Obed begat Jesse, and Jesse begat David” (Ruth 4:18-22).

This beautiful story of God’s grace and goodness concludes with a genealogical record of ten men. As with all genealogies, they serve as a link to our heritage. God saw fit to place this genealogical record in Ruth’s story because it helps us discover His righteousness, riches, and redemption. 

His righteousness is seen in bringing justice to injustice in the life of Pharez’s mother. His riches of grace are seen in sparing Boaz’s mother, a harlot from Jericho. His redemption is seen the work of Obed’s father as he stood to serve as kinsman-redeemer to a Moabite.

The story behind this genealogy cannot be told by singling out one person, but rather by looking at each man by the light of the others. It is wise to remember that the future is brightest when seen through the past. Like most men, each man listed had no idea of the effect his life would have on generations to follow. Yet each man fulfilled a most vital role in the plan of God. He used each in the path of redemption that leads to the cross. 

The heritage of grace begins with Pharez. His father, Judah, had three other sons, Er, Onan, and Shelah. Er, like his father, married a Canaanite girl whose name was Tamar. Er was so wicked that God killed him. Since Tamar had no children, she appealed to Judah for Onan to give her seed to continue the family line. He refused, and God killed him. Afterward, Judah promised Tamar that, when his youngest son grew older, he would marry her. Shelah grew up, and Judah did not keep his word. Tamar was frustrated. Through her own act of deception, she was found with child of Judah. Convicted by his immorality and deception, Judah confessed his wrong and praised Tamar for being more honorable than he was. Tamar bore a son, and his name was Pharez. 

Pharez’s birth violated God’s law. In Deuteronomy 23:2, God wrote, “A bastard shall not enter into the congregation of the Lord; even to his tenth generation shall he not enter into the congregation of the Lord.” God’s law was clear. If a child were born of illegitimate parentage, it would take ten generations to cleanse this line before that family could enter the congregation of the Lord. 

The ten generations following Judah’s sin were Pharez, Hezron, Ram, Amminadab, Nahshon, Salmon, Boaz, Obed, Jesse, and David. In this line of men, we see a glimmer of God’s grace in the fifth generation. The Old Testament chronicler states that Nahshon became a prince of the children of Judah. In the seventh generation, Boaz stood and became kinsman-redeemer. In the tenth generation, God had a king for his people: David. In David, the generational line is cleansed, and he is able to enter the congregation of the Lord. With David’s kingship, the door is opened for the Messiah to sit on the throne of David.

The Messiah’s authenticity and arrival is the real story of this genealogy. His coming was sought by many generations. His human heritage came through Judah’s line, represented by these ten men. Included in this line were men who made mistakes. We even see men whose wives were of questionable origin. Yes, His heritage is a heritage of grace. 

Ruth’s story should remind you that those who are marred, scarred, and discarded are all welcome in the family of God. The account of Ruth’s redemption reveals that men of all nations are welcome in the family of God. Pharez’s mother and his father’s wife were both Canaanites. Rahab was from Canaan and Ruth from Moab. Their multinational heritage and sin-stained lives found a welcome inclusion in the line of the Messiah. Ruth’s testament reveals that all men from all nations are able to find their redemption in His righteous blood. 

God's righteousness demanded a righteous death to pay for the sin of man. The law was inadequate to save the family of man. Like “such a one” who could not redeem all that was Elimelech’s, so the law could not redeem man to God. However, Jesus Christ, as our Eternal Boaz, stood in the gate and said, “I will redeem them.” His blood payment on the cross satisfied God, and the provision for man’s redemption was made. 

All men of all nations will find in the Eternal Boaz their redemption. Yes, the genealogy that concludes the book of Ruth is a heritage of God’s grace and mercy. It points to the path that leads from the little town of Bethlehem-judah to the cross of Calvary. Have you accepted His redemption? Are you telling others of it? 

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He Is the Father

by John O'Malley

“And the women her neighbours gave it a name, saying, There is a son born to Naomi; and they called his name Obed: he is the father of Jesse, the father of David” (Ruth 4:17).

The gospel according to Ruth concludes as it began: in the most ordinary of ways. We began with the story of a man with two sons. We conclude the book with his genealogy. However, as we have seen throughout this book, no small decision is an isolated event. Every decision has future consequences. It is the grace of God that brought a different end to the family of Elimelech after the fateful decision he made. 

The narrative section of this book ends with a statement that reveals the restoration of what appeared to be a disruption in the lineage of the Messiah. The unnamed writer of this book makes Obed’s link to the Messiah clear: “He is the father of Jesse, the father of David.” Jericho’s harlot and Moab’s child joined the line of the Messiah in the redemptive birth of Obed.  

Obed, standing at the head of the Messianic line, would pass the baton of the Messiah’s lineage to Jesse. Jesse would then hand the baton to his son, David. David’s city, Bethlehem-judah, would host the birth of the Messiah. David’s throne would become the Messiah’s throne, and to His Kingdom there would be no end. 

Yes, God took what seemed impossible and, when there was no hope of a child being born to restore the Messianic line, raised up Boaz as kinsman-redeemer. To Boaz and Ruth, He gave Obed. The birth of Obed in Bethlehem-judah symbolized to generations later the faithfulness of God to keep His word to bring about the redemption of man.

God’s sovereign hand worked in the life of Elimelech and all his progeny to bring glory to His name. What is that little thing over which you fret today? Can He who aligned all of the details in the life of Elimelech—mistakes and all—not do the same for you? Obed was the father of Jesse. Is God your Father?

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A Name From the Neighbors

by John O'Malley

“And the women her neighbours gave it a name, saying, There is a son born to Naomi; and they called his name Obed: he is the father of Jesse, the father of David” (Ruth 4:17). 

Considering the manner of the people of God, it would seem likely that these events in the previous three verses have taken place within the first eight days of the newborn’s birth. Jewish law required that the baby would be circumcised and also, typically, named. It would be likely that the neighbors of Naomi had come on this auspicious occasion to rejoice with the redeemed family of Elimelech.

Naomi’s neighbors observed the events in the life of Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz. They saw God bring the wandering Naomi home. They beheld the loving way Ruth had helped Naomi, and her faithfulness in Boaz’s field. They witnessed the redemption of all that belonged to Elimelech, Mahlon, and Chilion. 

Truly, this was the hand of God at work in their little town. They could hardly contain their blessings and congratulations. In the joy of the moment, coupled with their enthusiasm, the crowd cried out, “There is a son born to Naomi, and they called him Obed.” The name was not a family name to them. He was not named after Elimelech or Boaz. Obed is a name that literally means “serving.” The word describes his action, serving, more than his position, as a servant.

The neighbors saw Obed’s arrival as if there were a special task for him. He would be serving. He would serve God as he restored hope in the hearts of the little town of Bethlehem. He would serve as the symbol of the grace found in the law of God. Obed’s birth marked a moment in time where the people recognized God’s hand at work in their midst, in that He served. 

In their cries to name Obed, it is interesting to see the women announce that there is a son born to Naomi. They knew it was Ruth who conceived of Boaz. They knew it was Ruth who delivered a son. Yet they cried out, “There is a son born to Naomi.” Their cry merely indicated their heart. As Naomi drew Obed to her bosom, so they were drawing Obed to their collective bosom. They saw Naomi had been blessed by God with a grandson and, vicariously, a son to continue the line of Elimelech and the greater line of the Messiah. 

The law of God that made provision for Boaz to be kinsman-redeemer also revealed itself in Obed to be a law of grace. The son that was born into the family of Elimelech now stood at the head of the line of the Messiah. Obed was serving. He was serving the God who had promised Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob that theirs would be a great nation from whom the Messiah would come. 

Is there an “Obed” quality in your life? Are you serving? Is God content with your serving? You were redeemed to serve. Failure to serve disgraces your redemption. Why not make it your prayer today to please Him in the way you are serving?

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Connected at the Heart

by John O'Malley

“And Naomi took the child, and laid it in her bosom, and became nurse unto it” (Ruth 4:16).  

The relationship between Ruth and Naomi was sealed on their trip to Bethlehem-judah. On that journey of faith, Ruth selflessly and unconditionally pledged her heart to her mother-in-law. She promised to remain with Naomi. Wherever life’s events brought them, they were connected, connected at the heart. Ruth’s pledge said only death would part their relationship. 

Even in death, Ruth pledged to be buried by her mother-in-law. Naomi had buried all the family she had since her marriage to Elimelech, yet Ruth would not allow her to be buried without family. She committed that day to be buried in the land of Naomi’s God and people.

Ruth’s love for her mother-in-law was one of honor and of the heart. Naomi represented the sole living connection to her deceased husband. Ruth was the last link to Naomi’s deceased husband and son. The bond between Naomi and Ruth was one that connected them at the heart.  

The new life that followed redemption was now secure in the bosom of Naomi. This little lad could not yet know how valuable he was to these two women. Naomi and Ruth never could have known, when they discussed the impossibility of Ruth’s marrying a son to Naomi as they left Moab, that events would ever unfold as they had. Yet here in Naomi’s bosom was the fruit of God’s uniting a near kinsman with a childless widow who could restore the line of the Messiah.  

Naomi, without recorded words, pledged from the heart to Ruth, “I will be the nurse to this child. I will faithfully nourish and support this child’s development; he is my son.” She committed to her daughter-in-law, “The child of your womb is the child of my heart.” From their journey to Bethlehem-judah, Naomi became Ruth’s mother-in-love. This moment only solidified that emotional connection as Naomi held the future in her hands—a future that would have been lost, were it not for redemption.

Your redemption has connected you to the heart of God. His love for you is beyond human description. He loved us though we were hopelessly and desperately useless to Him. However, He saw in us what He could make us and loved us. He came to earth, expressed His love of Calvary’s cross, and freely offered His redemption to all mankind. Yes, redemption connects our heart to Him. It is a universal connection; no matter the background, behavior, or burdens, He will redeem even to the uttermost. 

Naomi became nurse to the child because of love. Perhaps today there is someone in your church family you have brought to the Lord that needs someone to faithfully nourish and support their spiritual development. You are connected at the heart to them. Do not allow other things to stand in your way to nurse a convert in their walk with the Lord. Rare is the person who will ignore a newborn baby and not pause to express their affection for this new life. We should do the same for the spiritual newborns around us; to whom will you become a spiritual nurse today?

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A Babe in Bethlehem

by John O'Malley

“And Naomi took the child, and laid it in her bosom, and became nurse unto it” (Ruth 4:16).  

Time must have stood still as this widowed grandmother sat with her grandson. The voices of the women of the city are silent. It is just a grandmother, her grandchild and her daughter-in-love, Ruth. Images of yesterdays begin to fill her mind as she holds the most precious of children, her own grandchild. The moment of this birth represents over a dozen years of labor in Naomi’s life. Scripture gives us this pause in the narrative to consider fully the facets of this moment. 

Naomi now held in her hands the heart of her husband and the life of her son. Certainly, tears from the heart were abundant. A sweet innocent child had come to their family by the hand of God. Words would come later. This was a moment for cherishing the scrapbook of the heart.

What a picture we see in our verse today: a woman who thought she would go to her grave alone. She could not provide a child to continue a family name for her husband. The disgrace of their departure and of the deaths in Moab left her defenseless and in despair. Each step home on her sixty-seven mile journey seemed to seal her fate. She was the sole representative of her husband, and she had no way of continuing the family line. No matter what she could do on her own, it would not be enough. Yet, somehow, God took her repentant return and brought redemption and restoration to her life.

These words say it all: “She took the child and laid it in her bosom.” She was able to take the child because the Almighty’s hand had not been fierce against her, but rather faithful to her. Her accusation that He had dealt very bitterly with her was silenced. She learned a valuable lesson in life: the only difference between bitter and better is the letter I. 

When she took the child, it spoke volumes to Ruth. Ruth, a Moabite, and Boaz, the son of Rahab the harlot, had been granted a son by God. Racially, the child represented cultures, communities, and conduct— all cause enough to raise walls of prejudice. However, when Naomi took the child, she took all that he was and accepted him because of love. The placement of the baby in her bosom silenced all opposing voices that could be raised. This was a child of grace. 

God’s favor had been extended to her. The great lengths God had gone to by moving heaven and earth to bring a son to stand in the family line of Elimelech touched her heart. She placed the baby near her heart and embraced more than just a child; she embraced hope in swaddling clothes and held on to the promise of a bright tomorrow.

Our God has done the same for the family of man today. He saw us in our pitiful state, distant and away from Him. On our own, there was no way we could come to Him, so He came to us. We were marred by our condition, culture, and conduct. He saw our hearts' condition, drew us to Himself, and loved us. We were no prize to Him, yet He chose to love us while we were yet sinners; that is a wonderful gift. 

His gift goes beyond a child in a manger. It extends to a cross where your sin payment was made. Redemption comes when the price has been paid. Have you accepted His offer of redemption? If not, do so today. If you have accepted His redemption, then tell someone today!

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Ruth, Naomi’s Daughter-in-Love

by John O'Malley

“And he shall be unto thee a restorer of thy life, and a nourisher of thine old age: for thy daughter in law, which loveth thee, which is better to thee than seven sons, hath born him” (Ruth 4:15).

The women rejoiced with Naomi. They shared testimonies with this new grandmother who was trying to assimilate the events of the day with the past dozen years or more. Her friends spoke of God’s goodness in supplying Boaz. They told of their confidence that Boaz would be all Naomi needed to live out her days in peace and joy. However, at the end of our focus verse today, they turn their testimony of praise to the mother of the baby, Ruth. 

The town knew of Ruth. It was not every day a Moabite would convert from idolatry to God. Furthermore, it was not common to see a Moabite move to Bethlehem-judah. However, Ruth was no ordinary Moabite. No, she was a Gentile gem, cultivated by God from the sands of Moab, for the Messiah’s crown. 

The testimony of her conversion became well known to the residents of Bethlehem-judah. You may remember Ruth’s words to Naomi: “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: 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” (Ruth 1:16-17).

The testimony of her redemption was well known. Almost a year had passed since Boaz had stood in the gate and proclaimed his offer of redemption. Yes, the women of Bethlehem-judah knew Ruth's heritage, and they knew her heart. She loved Naomi and was committed to staying with her until death parted them. 

The women praised Ruth to Naomi: “Thy daughter in law, which loveth thee, which is better to thee than seven sons, hath born him.” Their tribute testifies of Ruth’s value and their esteem of her. She may have been the subject of a few whispers amongst the women in the town, perhaps even amongst some of these. However, they watched her movements and motives. They realized she was one of them, not by the heritage of her birth, but rather by heritage of her faith. 

Ruth maintained a proper relationship to Naomi. She did not become envious of Naomi’s friends' praise on this the day of birth of her firstborn son. She knew that this was a matter of God’s hand blessing all of them. She did not seek to take anything away from this moment with pouting or worrying whether she would be recognized. She just held her baby and knew that the Almighty had been gracious to her, and He knew she had been faithful. Ruth’s contentment brought her beyond the realm of being Naomi’s daughter-in-law to being her daughter-in-love. 

The women of Bethlehem-judah announced Ruth’s value was greater than having seven sons. If Naomi had one son, it was certainly special. However if she had seven sons, it would have distinguished Naomi as a mother with great value. In that culture, bearing sons represented security, sustenance, and continuance of the family line. However, Ruth’s quiet faithfulness distinguished her amongst the women of Bethlehem-judah. Her worth to Naomi was greater than if Naomi had given birth to seven sons.

Only God would take a Moabite and make her more valuable than a mother having seven sons. Only God would raise her estimation amongst women in that city who may have first decried her and now praised her. Ruth’s value was not tarnished by her words or actions. She was faithful, and God honored her.

What situation are you facing today? God does see, and He knows where you are. You need to purpose in your heart to make yourself valuable to Him. He will increase your value over time in the eyes of others. What is your testimony amongst your neighbors? What is your testimony amongst your in-laws? 

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Benefits of Redemption

by John O'Malley

“And he shall be unto thee a restorer of thy life, and a nourisher of thine old age: for thy daughter in law, which loveth thee, which is better to thee than seven sons, hath born him” (Ruth 4:15).  

The women’s voices continued to praise Boaz for his value as a redeemer and for the redemption he brought. Naomi listened as her well-wishers brought words of comfort and courage. Certainly, her heart was renewed as these her friends, friends who stood with her in the famine of her life, reminded her of the blessings of Boaz’s redemption. 

They knew that Boaz would be the complete redeemer that Naomi needed. Naomi no longer stood alone; her friends knew she needed to hear that, especially on a day when so much was happening in her heart and home. 

Naomi’s friends told her that they knew Boaz would be a restorer and nourisher in her life. Naomi had grown accustomed to living alone and struggling to make it. Boaz’s commitment to redemption meant he would bring new life to this grandmother. Boaz would see to it she would never lack again. 

Redemption had its many benefits. Boaz brought more to her than just a name. He brought meaning to life. He made things new. He took that which was lifeless and gave it life. Such work was not to be ignored, and Naomi’s neighbors knew it. They knew that Boaz would supply and sustain Naomi for life. His redemption meant Naomi would know replenishment of her need as she had never known. This day was a blessed one. Naomi’s friends helped her hear and see the benefits of Boaz’s redemption.

The child of God would do well to visit this verse in light of the redemption by our Eternal Boaz. We too have benefits that go beyond our redemption. He is both our Restorer and Nourisher. 

David, great-grandson to Boaz and Ruth, would write to this same affect, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits” (Psalm 103:2). He, writing in this psalm, reveals that the benefits of redemption are abundant. His redemption brings to us forgiveness, healing, deliverance, crowns of lovingkindness and tender mercies, satisfaction, and renewing.

You probably will be busy today. It seems that is how life goes. Why not determine right now to live the next twenty-four hours with the benefits of redemption on your mind instead of the burdens of responsibility? Your days will be brighter and your loads much lighter. 

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Famous in Israel

by John O'Malley

“And the women said unto Naomi, Blessed be the Lord, which hath not left thee this day without a kinsman, that his name may be famous in Israel” (Ruth 4:14).   

The women in Naomi’s hometown knew how special this day was. Ruth had conceived by her kinsman-redeemer, Boaz. Today, she had given birth to a son. The townspeople understood it was the hand of God which brought this to pass. No other but God would see to it in such a manner.

The words of the women merely echo the initial blessings issued at the gate of the city where the proclamation of Ruth’s redemption was made. The gathering on that auspicious day about a year ago had their own blessing for Boaz: “The Lord make the woman that is come into thine house like Rachel and like Leah, which two did build the house of Israel: and do thou worthily in Ephratah, and be famous in Bethlehem.” Now, the women who knew Naomi best gathered to see this precious child. To these women, Boaz and Ruth’s child represented God’s grace. 

Their words represented the very thoughts of their heart. They desired “that his name may be famous in Israel.”For Boaz, playing the part of the kinsman-redeemer, they wanted more than their tiny village, often overshadowed by Jerusalem, to know it. They desired all Israel to know it. 

Yet little did they realize just how famous the name of Boaz would become. Boaz—son of Rahab the harlot, kinsman-redeemer to all that was Elimelech’s, father to a son which restored the family line of Elimelech, great-grandfather to King David, great-great-grandfather to the world’s wisest king, and one of the forty-two mentioned in Scripture in the line of the Messiah. Yes, he did become famous in all of Israel and the world. 

They wanted Israel to know the graciousness and goodness of Boaz extended to the most unlikely candidate for redemption in all of Israel. Their desire for Boaz to stand out and be recognizable by all Israel was appropriate. When a kinsman-redemption like this is done, everyone should know about it.  

Similarly, we should desire the same thing for our Eternal Boaz. His redemption of our pitiful state and status should be declared around the world. The fame of His goodness and grace should reach every heart on earth. It is the responsibility of the redeemed to proclaim His glory among the heathen. We are to bring news of His redemption to all. We do this with our going and giving. How much going and giving have you done lately?

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Without a Kinsman

by John O'Malley

“And the women said unto Naomi, Blessed be the Lord, which hath not left thee this day without a kinsman, that his name may be famous in Israel” (Ruth 4:14).  

The words of the women of Bethlehem-judah to Naomi were precious in her hearing. Just listen to the clarity and confidence with which they spoke: “Blessed be the Lord, which hath not left thee this day without a kinsman, that his name may be famous in Israel.” They told Naomi she had not been left without a kinsman. For this, God’s name was to be blessed.

What would things have been like if Naomi had been left without a kinsman-redeemer? Elimelech’s name would have just been a memory, not linked to the Messiah. Naomi would have died lacking and alone. Hopelessness and hurt would have been nursed in her home until her dying day. Ruth would have lived exiled from hope and joy. Had it not been for Boaz being their kinsman-redeemer, they would have lost their lands to “such a one” who wanted the land, but not the ladies. We know that Naomi was not left without a kinsman-redeemer. 

God had orchestrated the events of many lives to bring about His will. It was God’s will from the Garden of Eden to bring a Kinsman-Redeemer to the world—the Messiah. Naomi’s friends reminded her on this most special of days, the birth of her first grandchild, that she had a kinsman who changed her future.

Have you ever paused to ponder what your life would be like had you been left without a Kinsman-Redeemer? Where would you be today? Had you been left without a Kinsman, your eternal home would not be the same. You would have an emptiness that would never be filled. Love and security would only be wishful thinking in your heart. You would never know about His grace being made perfect in weakness. You would never know what forgiveness meant.

Yes, we are the better having a Kinsman-Redeemer! However, today there is a neighbor of yours that may not know there is a Kinsman-Redeemer. They live without the knowledge that He will forgive their sinful past. Even in regions beyond your neighbor, there are millions who know not of our Kinsman-Redeemer. We must tell them today! 

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God’s Remembrance, Redemption, and Reward

by John O’Malley

“And the women said unto Naomi, Blessed be the Lord, which hath not left thee this day without a kinsman, that his name may be famous in Israel” (Ruth 4:14).

The community of Bethlehem-judah learned of the birth of a child to Boaz and Ruth. The women in the city, who had known Naomi, came to her house to rejoice in the wonderful news. It would seem their rejoicing should be toward Boaz and Ruth. After all, Boaz and Ruth were the parents. However, their praise is directed toward the child’s grandmother. Their rejoicing in this way reveals the impact of the kinsman-redemption on the community. 

Memories of Bethlehem-judah’s famine a decade ago and the accompanying sorrows found little grasp on their hearts in the birth of this little lad. A son had been born. God had remembered Naomi. Yes, Naomi! Although Ruth was the mother, Naomi represented her deceased husband Elimelech. It was Elimelech’s line that had been remembered, redeemed, and rewarded by the redemption of Boaz.

The redemption by Boaz was comprehensive. He purchased to himself all that belonged to  Mahlon, Chilion, and Elimelech. Naomi, as the child’s grandmother, was burdened by all that had taken place. Naomi’s past, with her husband’s departure, which brought his death, was nullified because of Boaz’s redemption. Naomi’s pain in her heart was lifted as she saw the Almighty had blessed her and had not dealt bitterly with her as she had accused Him. Naomi’s potential, because of Boaz’s redemption, was before her. His redemption restored hope and renewed her happiness. 

God had been gracious to Naomi; she and her neighbors knew it. These same neighbors who had heard her bemoan God’s forgetting, forsaking, and fierceness now arrive to raise the banner of rejoicing over the heart and home of Naomi. They rejoiced in God’s remembrance, redemption, and reward toward Naomi. 

The word of the neighbors must have struck a chord of remembrance in Naomi’s hearing. Long gone were the days where she in desperation accused God in the presence of her neighbors upon her return from Moab. You remember she said, “Call me not Naomi, call me Mara: for the Almighty hath dealt very bitterly with me. 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?” 

The Eternal Boaz reminded Naomi, through the visit of the women, of His grace and goodness. She was reminded of the Father and Friend she had in Heaven. She was not alone. She had been remembered, not forgotten. She had been redeemed, not forsaken. She had been rewarded, not fined by the fierceness of God. 

You know, the redemption that the Eternal Boaz offers is the same today. It is the bemoaning of believers that isolates them from recalling that the mercies of the Lord endure forever. As Naomi had a Friend in Heaven that remembered, redeemed, and rewarded her, so do believers today. His redemption erases our painful past and gives us potential we never knew. When the events of a million yesterdays seek to restrain you, remember it is His redemption that makes us worth something at all. “In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins” (Colossians 1:14).  

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The Birth

by John O’Malley

“So Boaz took Ruth, and she was his wife: and when he went in unto her, the Lord gave her conception, and she bare a son” (Ruth 4:13).

Their first days surely were filled with the joy of any newly wedded couple. Rays of love splashed across their home as they began in earnest to establish their new home together. Laughter and smiles were abundant as they shared stories of their thoughts of what once was and what would be in their future. There was no question; they were in love!

Their marriage was not one entered into with reluctance; rather, it was one with rejoicing. This redeemed bride and her kinsman-redeemer sought to share their love and to seek God’s blessing in conception. They desired a son to continue the family name of Elimelech and Ruth’s deceased husband, Mahlon. This desire was honorable in the eyes of God and man.

In yesterday’s reading, we saw that, as hard as Satan fought, God is overall and reigns supreme. His sovereign hand oversaw and orchestrated the events of Boaz and Ruth’s lives to bring them down His aisle of grace. Their meeting was not by chance. It was by divine appointment, and it would be the same with the fruit of their union. 

Who would have thought that a generous act several thousand years ago by a wealthy relative toward an impoverished, childless widow would play such an important role in the redemption of the world? Yet it did. Redemption is the very heart of God. He allowed nothing to prevent making redemption available to all of mankind in all ages. He blessed Boaz and Ruth with a son, as He would thirty generations later as He blessed the family of man with the virgin birth of Jesus, the Messiah.

The blessing of the birth of a son to Boaz and Ruth highlights a clear truth. God is in control in the matters of redemption and reproduction of mankind. Man cannot redeem himself, nor can he reproduce without God. God desires to redeem every man without exemption or exclusion. He still gives heritage even today in the reproduction and adoption of children. Through both, He receives the glory.

Our focal verse today states it clearly: “And when he went in unto her, the Lord gave her conception, and she bare a son.” It is no wonder that, as Satan fought against their union, God would bless it and give them conception, and at that a son. Four generations later, God used their great-great-grandson Solomon to write in Psalm 127:3, “Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.”

Perhaps you are aware of someone who is having a baby. Why not use it as a reminder to tell others of God’s redemption available to all men? Let us thank God today for His grace and goodness toward us. It is easy when reading a verse like this one today to understand what John wrote in the New Testament: “We love him, because he first loved us” (1 John 4:19). 

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The Battle

by John O’Malley

“So Boaz took Ruth, and she was his wife: and when he went in unto her, the Lord gave her conception, and she bare a son” (Ruth 4:13).

God made a promise to mankind in the Garden of Eden of a Messiah. Since the promise was made, Satan has sought to attack God’s creation in order to disrupt the line of the One that would crush his own head. One such attempt by Satan to destroy the line of the Messiah is seen in his attack on the family of Elimelech. Satan attacked Elimelech, who stood at the head of the line of the Messiah. Then, with the death of all the living males in the family line of the Messiah, Satan could extinguish the hope of the Messiah.

Ruth’s redemption was the very will of God, and none of Satan’s army could prevent it. This day, Satan lost a battle in his war to prevent the birth of the Messiah. However, the last battle in this war would be waged in this little town of Bethlehem-judah in a few generations. Satan would enlist rulers, innkeepers, and politicians to prevent the birth of Christ. Yet he would fail miserably, and Jesus Christ, our Kinsman-Redeemer, would be born to provide redemption for the world.

Jesus, our wealthy relative, by His birth in the family of mankind, generously gave Himself for the redemption of the world. His virgin birth and sinless life uniquely qualified Him. His sacrificial death was the price He paid for the redemption of the family of man. His resurrection gave Him the keys of death, hell, and the grave. He alone is the only way mankind can be redeemed.

Are you among the redeemed? Is your family? Are your neighbors and co-workers? The greatest story we could ever tell is the story of redemption by our Eternal Boaz.

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Boaz Returns for His Bride

by John O’Malley

“So Boaz took Ruth, and she was his wife: and when he went in unto her, the Lord gave her conception, and she bare a son”(Ruth 4:13). 

Boaz’s arrival back to Naomi’s house is without description, but certainly not without drama. He had instructed Ruth to go home. When she left the threshing floor, he had given her provision to share with Naomi. Naomi quickly understood all that was underway and told her to wait until she knew how everything would go.

Naomi sought to encourage Ruth while waiting. She said Boaz would not rest until the matter had been dealt with both legally and emotionally. Ruth’s waiting for the arrival of Boaz must have been filled with anxiousness and anticipation. Her future rested in his word. She merely had to live on the words of Boaz until she saw him again. 

Ruth knew that he went to secure her redemption. She was to live on his provision and live by his promise until he returned. His return was imminent. Images of when he would return and what it would be like could have played in her mind. No matter when it was, she needed to be ready for his arrival. 

The last twenty-four hours had been dramatic, to say the least. She went through the cleansing process for presenting herself to Boaz. She went through the emotional high and low of hearing that he would redeem her, but that there was another who had first right to the inheritance of the land of Elimelech and to these ladies who remained. She spent a short night on the threshing floor and quickly left before dawn to avoid tarnishing her virtuous reputation. Now, she waited for the arrival of her kinsman-redeemer.

Boaz left the city gate. He headed to Naomi’s house. No longer was it Naomi’s; it was his now by right of purchase. He clutched the shoe from the nearer kinsman who had decided the redemption was beyond what he was willing to pay. Each step toward Naomi’s brought the realization of redemption. What would the look be on their faces? He had secured their future, and they could be with him for the rest of their days. He desired Ruth’s heart and sought to honor her and her husband’s family by not allowing their name to be extinguished from the families of Judah’s tribe.

Finally, the house was in sight. Did he call out to Ruth or knock at the door? Was she watching for him? Did she sense his arrival? Did he stand at the turn in the path and hold up the shoe? Did he stand in the doorway and hold up the shoe for them to see? Perhaps these things are kept from us so the focus would be on the redemption and the redeemer. 

The words are simply stated for us: “So Boaz took Ruth, and she was his wife.” It is sure that the arrival of Boaz was welcome. The shoe he carried, symbolizing  that the act was legally satisfied, was certainly treasured. However, the greatest treasure of the day was the one held in their hearts; they were going to grow old together and, with the blessing of God, they would have a son, and the family’s name would be restored. 

The shadows cast toward the New Testament are abundant as we reach this verse. We too are a bride waiting for the return of our Redeemer. He has given us His promise and provision. He promised to return for His bride, the church. He gives us provision for living while we wait His arrival. Are you ready for His return? Has the time waiting for Him brought discouragement or even distraction? His return is imminent; He will come. You must occupy yourself in His business until He arrives. 

Do you anticipate His arrival as Ruth did with Boaz? May we follow the New Testament teaching about this matter and “love his appearing” (2 Timothy 4:8).

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Reflections of Faith

by John O’Malley

“And let thy house be like the house of Pharez, whom Tamar bare unto Judah, of the seed which the Lord shall give thee of this young woman” (Ruth 4:12).

Tamar’s story was not one of which little girls would dream. Her story was more of an ugly reality. Yet it directly affected this moment in the gate of Bethlehem-judah. 

Tamar married a man named Er; his father was Judah. Er was a wicked man, and God killed him. So, following the same principle which Boaz now followed, Judah told his second son, Onan, to marry Tamar. Through a most humiliating experience to Tamar, he refused. As with all selfish and mean acts, the Lord observed this. He slew him like he had slain his brother Er. 

Judah told Tamar to wait at her father’s house until his other son, Shelah, grew up. He would then have his son follow the same principle to raise up seed for the family name not to be extinguished. However, Judah did not honor his word. Tamar, through an act of deception, was found to be with the child of Judah, her father-in-law. When it was discovered, Judah confessed that Tamar had been more righteous than he had been. 

Tamar, though scarred by the events of being married to a wicked man, rejected by another, and refused by yet another, sought to make sure that family name of her husband was not extinguished. She gave birth to twins, whose names were Pharez and Zarah. According to the census of Israel in the book of Numbers, the population of the sons of Judah, including the house of Pharez, grew to over 76,500. The house of Pharez would not have existed, nor could all of Bethlehem-judah’s citizens gathered to witness Boaz—the grandson of Pharez, four generations removed—redeem Ruth. 

The words of the townspeople were more than just matrimonial blessings. They were reflections of faith in a God who brought justice to injustice. They believed in a God who accepted those who were rejected and refused. They had confidence that God could bring fruit to any barren womb. They knew that all things work together for good for those who love God. 

The people of Bethlehem-judah spoke as if the matter of a son born to Boaz and Ruth was settled. They wanted the house of Boaz to be like the house of Pharez. Their knowledge of the past gave them their faith for their present. These children of Israel knew the painful story of the house of Pharez and its vague similarities to Boaz and Ruth. Yet their reflections of faith gave them comfort and challenged them.

The people of Bethlehem-judah knew that what God had done before He could do again. They knew God could give seed to Boaz through the fruit of Ruth’s womb. They knew God honored those who honored His Word. What have you seen God do in the past? Have you developed your faith to the place where you can take God at His Word? Pause a moment today. Look for the reflections of faith in the pool of your life’s experiences since Calvary. Whatever you are facing today, do not let it get you disheartened. Turn your heart around and trust Him!

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A Prayer for Favor and Fame

by John O’Malley

“And all the people that were in the gate, and the elders, said, We are witnesses. The Lord make the woman that is come into thine house like Rachel and like Leah, which two did build the house of Israel: and do thou worthily in Ephratah, and be famous in Bethlehem” (Ruth 4:11).

Boaz listened as the people spoke. Each one shared their prayerful cry and desires for Bethlehem-judah’s newest couple. One by one, people in the crowd amongst the invited and the interested gave their heart’s best to Ruth and him. None could know the joy sensed in his heart as he heard them share prayers for fruitfulness, favor, and fame. Surely, he could not wait for the opportunity to share these matters for the heart with Ruth.

The prayerful desire of the people brought out two interesting phrases. They said, “And do thou worthily in Ephratah, and be famous in Bethlehem.” Boaz and Ruth had the well wishes and prayers of the people in Bethlehem-judah. 

It is interesting to combine their reminiscing of Rachel with the mentioning of Ephratah. Ephrathites were the original inhabitants of the city which is now called Bethlehem. Their desire was for the couple to do well in the name of the old city. This was logical, as the couple sought the old ways of kinsman-redemption and levirate restoration. 

They desired for Boaz and Ruth to honor both their ancestor's name and their virtues. It was honorable for a man to set aside whatever would be exclusively his inheritance and share it with another. It was virtuous for a man to lay aside his best for one who needed his best. It was upright for Boaz to take Ruth and restore the family name of his kinsman Elimelech.

The people also desired that they be famous in Bethlehem-judah. Little did they know the notoriety that would come to this couple and to the little town of Bethlehem. In this time of the judges, when every man did what was right in his own eyes, here stood a man who was doing what was right in God’s eyes. The townspeople wanted them to find distinction and to be renowned for Boaz’s redemption and Elimelech’s restoration by Boaz and Ruth.

A reading of the Bible reveals that the desires of the townspeople for favor and fame were met fully. A whole book of the Bible was devoted to the act of one man: Boaz. His very deed illustrated a greater act of redemption by our Eternal Boaz. Bethlehem-judah became well known for its hospitality for taking in strangers and hosting them in time of birth, with this couple and with Joseph and Mary.

The people’s desires for Boaz and Ruth should be our own desires. They wanted them to honor their spiritual heritage and to make a name for their homeland. It must be our chief aim to honor our spiritual heritage in our choices as we face life’s challenges. While many today seem quite content to seek fame for themselves, it should be the desire of the child of God to seek to bring attention to the homeland of heaven.   

Our lives must bring to God glory and honor in every area. Did your decisions yesterday bring honor to God and bring to others an awareness of His salvation? Will everything you do today?

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Builders of the House of Israel

by John O’Malley

“And all the people that were in the gate, and the elders, said, We are witnesses. The Lord make the woman that is come into thine house like Rachel and like Leah, which two did build the house of Israel: and do thou worthily in Ephratah, and be famous in Bethlehem” (Ruth 4:11).

The people of the Bethlehem-judah cried out for God to make Ruth like Rachel and Leah. They revered Jacob’s favored wife Rachel and her sister Leah as the builders of the house of Israel. Their mentioning is not without significance to the newly announced marriage of Boaz and Ruth. 

These women were valued in Bethlehem-judah for several reasons. Together, the sisters had given birth to the sons that made up the tribes of Israel. As Israelites, the people of Bethlehem-judah were directly affected by these two sisters. Their understanding of Israel’s history and their own family heritage made a special place in their hearts for Rachel and Leah. Rachel, the younger of the two sisters, had died giving birth to Benjamin in Ephratah, the original name for Bethlehem. She was buried just outside the city’s gate, a short walk from where they were standing.

The desire of the townspeople was to see Ruth be the builder of the house of Elimelech. They desired that God would make her union with Boaz fruitful. They wanted God to make Ruth like Rachel, one of the co-builders of the house of Israel. This title, “builder of the house of Israel,” revealed the position of honor Rachel and Leah held in their hearts, though generations later.  

Rachel was the object of Jacob’s affection. He loved her deeply, even to the rejection of Leah, her sister. God saw this inequity and made Leah’s womb fruitful and Rachel’s womb barren. Rachel’s womb remained empty until her sister had given Jacob six sons and a daughter. 

Rachel desired children to the extent that she pled with Jacob, “Give me children, or else I die” (Genesis 30:1). Jacob knew that he was not in control, for it was God who made women fruitful. It was after her plea for children to her husband that God remembered Rachel. His favor brought fruitfulness to Rachel. She gave birth to Joseph. A few years later, she gave birth to her second son, Benjamin. Jacob loved the sons of Rachel dearly; they both were living reminders of his love for her.

Ruth’s role was clear in the minds of the people. She was redeemed by Boaz for a purpose. She was to bring forth a son to prevent the family name from being extinguished. 

As one who is redeemed by the Eternal Boaz, we should be careful to remember our responsibility. Our adoption in the Eternal Boaz’s family creates a responsibility to be builders of the house of God. We are to be fruitful first in the places close to our heart and home; then we are to be fruitful in the places that are hard to reach. 

Many believers rejoice in their redemption, yet the same ones are reserved in reaching others with the message of the Eternal Boaz. When was the last time you led someone to Him with His message of redemption? How often do you tell men of the Eternal Boaz? May you strive to be a builder of the house of God.

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A Woman of His Making

by John O’Malley

“And all the people that were in the gate, and the elders, said, We are witnesses. The Lord make the woman that is come into thine house like Rachel and like Leah, which two did build the house of Israel: and do thou worthily in Ephratah, and be famous in Bethlehem: And let thy house be like the house of Pharez, whom Tamar bare unto Judah, of the seed which the Lordshall give thee of this young woman” (Ruth 4:11-12).

The people gathered in the gate of the city knew very well that this was a special day. Their presence at the gate and their pledge to give witness both point to the importance of this day. Their prayer for God’s blessing on the couple is worthy of close examination. The townspeople’s prayer was simple. They prayed for fruitfulness, favor, and fame for Boaz and Ruth. 

In their prayer, three women are mentioned. Their mentioning is not by happenstance. Each of them shared a significant role in this moment. The people wanted God to do for Boaz and Ruth as He did for the house of Israel through these women. They knew that, if it were not for the hand of God making these women fruitful, the twelve tribes of Israel would not be as they knew them. Each Israelite, standing in the gate of Bethlehem-judah, knew the importance of each woman’s role in her very own existence.

Their understanding of Israel’s history and their own family’s heritage made a special place in their hearts for Rachel, Leah, and Tamar. Each woman had a unique story known to the dwellers in Bethlehem. They remembered Rachel for her barren womb that was blessed. Leah, Rachel’s sister, was remembered for the rejected heart that was rewarded. Tamar, the wife of Leah’s grandson, was mentioned as the forgotten wife remembered. In the days ahead, we will look at each woman’s story. For now, let the focus remain on God’s making of these women. 

The people cried out, “The Lord make the woman…” They wanted Ruth to be a woman of His making. They knew God made these three women not solely in the matter of creation, but uniquely for His purpose and His praise. Were these women perfect? Certainly not! However, they were women whose hearts were toward the Lord God of Israel, and He blessed them. The townspeople knew Ruth had a heart that was toward God and, therefore, knew Ruth could be a woman made by God for His purposes and praise. 

What about you? Are you a person of your making or His? Have you allowed God to make you into what He desires? He can take your heart—man or woman—and uniquely make you suitable for His purposes and praise. Have you placed yourself before the Almighty God for His making? The people’s cry for Ruth should be the cry of our own heart: “Lord, make me whatever you would have me be.” 

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A Blessing to Remember

by John O’Malley

“And all the people that were in the gate, and the elders, said, We are witnesses. The Lord make the woman that is come into thine house like Rachel and like Leah, which two did build the house of Israel: and do thou worthily in Ephratah, and be famous in Bethlehem: And let thy house be like the house of Pharez, whom Tamar bare unto Judah, of the seed which the Lordshall give thee of this young woman” (Ruth 4:11-12).

The crowd responded to the wedding announcement with a most unusual benediction. This is not the first blessing in the book. There have been seven benedictions before this one (1:8-9; 2:4, 12, 20; 3:10). Three of them originated from Naomi. Three came from Boaz. Another benediction was spoken by Boaz’s workers. This eighth benediction is unique. This blessing is from the townspeople upon Boaz and Ruth. 

The manner in which the benediction came is not expounded upon in Scripture. It seems unlikely that they all had a memorized script from which they quoted. It seems more spontaneous, as if one said something and then another chimed in with their blessing. 

Perhaps someone in the crowd spoke up and said, “The Lord make the woman that is come into thine house like Rachel and like Leah.” Perhaps another said, “Which two did build the house of Israel.” Yet another of the gathered witnesses may have cried out, “And do thou worthily in Ephratah,” and another, “And be famous in Bethlehem.” For just a moment, there is silence. Then someone called out, “And let thy house be like the house of Pharez, whom Tamar bare unto Judah, of the seed which the Lord shall give thee of this young woman.”

Scripture is silent in the manner by which the benediction came. However, the message they spoke is not silent. This was a blessing to remember. It brought to remembrance God’s goodness on the children of Israel in blessing them by fulfilling His promise to Abraham. 

Their blessing placed honor upon the two women whose maternal efforts gave Jacob the sons who became the tribes in Israel. The townspeople’s blessing remembered another woman: Tamar, Judah’s wife. They knew to which tribe Boaz belonged; he was of the tribe of Judah. Without Pharez, Tamar’s son, there would be no Boaz.

While it was a blessing that remembered their heritage, it also expressed their honor for Boaz and Ruth. They wished the fruitfulness that came to the house of Israel because of Rachel, Leah, and Tamar to be repeated. They desired that God, in the same manner, would honor this union and bless them with children. 

The blessing from the residents of Bethlehem-judah gives believers a wonderful example on encouragement. When Boaz and Ruth chose to do what was right, the townspeople responded with words of support. This couple chose to honor God’s Word, and they were met with encouragement. 

Do you know someone who is trying to obey and honor God’s word in their life? Why not seek them out and offer a blessing of encouragement in their life. It may be in marriage, or possibly in ministry where they are making their stand. Their commitment to God to do right makes them stand out. Why not stand with them and support them with encouragement? Why not give them a blessing to remember?

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Sharing Joy

by John O’Malley

“And all the people that were in the gate, and the elders, said, We are witnesses. The Lord make the woman that is come into thine house like Rachel and like Leah, which two did build the house of Israel: and do thou worthily in Ephratah, and be famous in Bethlehem” (Ruth 4:11). 

The elders and the others in the gate replied to Boaz in accepting their responsibility in unison. It is interesting to consider that only the ten had to be in agreement, yet all of them said they would be witnesses. This response indicates that the citizens from Bethlehem-judah were delighted and thrilled at what had taken place. God had opened a place in their hearts for Ruth. 

God’s opening of their hearts took place over time. Ruth’s accompanying Naomi home from Moab, along with their arrival in Bethlehem-judah, gave an opportunity for the townspeople to be hospitable. Ruth’s attitude and activities indicated to the people that, though her conception made her Moabite, her conversion made her Israelite. 

In the second chapter, we learned that Boaz had the information presented to him about Ruth’s demeanor, duty, and devotion with Naomi. This information certainly came from the residents of Bethlehem-judah. Their interest in Ruth is confirmed by their gathering in the city gate and by their getting involved in the witnessing of such a gracious redemption. 

They did not stop with just the promise of involvement as witnesses of this transaction. They added to their promise a pronouncement of a blessing on the union between Boaz and Ruth. This blessing, whether spoken in unison or by different individuals in the crowd, indicated their desire for Boaz and Ruth to be fruitful. 

Not a selfish word was recorded in Scripture by any in the crowd. No words of envy were spoken. Gathered there that day were people with a genuine joy for Ruth’s redemption and the wedding that would take place. Ruth’s tomorrows would never be the same; they rejoiced in God’s goodness shown though Boaz to Ruth.

There are people today in our churches who are delighted when God is blessing them. However, when God blesses another in an extraordinary way, they cannot be happy. This is not the way it was in Bethlehem-judah. Is it that way in your church? 

When others around you are experiencing the goodness of God, what is your response? Are you able to share in the enjoyment of others? Do you enjoy their blessing only as long as they do not fare better than you do? 

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