by John O’Malley
“And Boaz answered and said unto her, It hath fully been shewed me, all that thou hast done unto thy mother in law since the death of thine husband: and how thou hast left thy father and thy mother, and the land of thy nativity, and art come unto a people which thou knewest not heretofore. The Lord recompense thy work, and a full reward be given thee of the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings thou art come to trust” (Ruth 2:11-12).
Boaz’s words were carefully selected. His words did not lose their impact on Ruth. In one phrase, Boaz accurately verbalized Ruth’s feelings and thoughts. Boaz spoke with calming assurance to Ruth, and she listened intently and hung on his every word. Boaz’s words draped a mantle of security across Ruth’s shoulders as she contemplated his ability to understand her needs and her nature. Ruth stood in the field of Boaz and listened in amazement to his words.
Boaz spoke the words that would send her on a journey of discovery in the kingdom of God’s goodness and grace. Ruth knew that God, and this treasure of a man named Boaz, cared deeply for her. When Boaz learned of Ruth’s compassion, conversion, commitment, and conviction, he opened his heart to God’s plan and purpose. When Boaz spoke of the “wings of God,” his message came through to Ruth with clarity. She hadcome to trust the wings of God.
Boaz’s statement revealed God’s adoption of Ruth, God’s acceptance of Ruth, and God’s association with Ruth. God adopted Ruth upon her confession of faith in Him; therefore, she could trust in the wings of God. God accepted Ruth, despite her heritage and homeland; therefore she could trust in the wings of God. Before all Israel, God associated with Ruth; therefore she could trust in the wings of God.
Ruth knew within her bosom that she had come to trust the wings of God. It thrilled her heart to know that the God of Israel had adopted her when she confessed her faith in Him. The same God who had flown as an eagle above the nation of Israel now soared over her heart and hopes. The days of living with a Moabitish heart had been erased by the grace of God. It was easy for Ruth to follow God, for He accepted her fully.
Ruth’s persuasion was increased as she considered that God had accepted her, although she was marred in her heritage and by her homeland. When one is accepted by a group of people, he has a sense of connection; however, acceptance by God generates more than a sense of connection. It brings a secure confidence.What a joy to know that you are accepted, despite being marred and despite past mistakes! While others may not accept you, the God of all comfort, “under whose wings thou art come to trust,” enables you to look overhead and see His everlasting wings.
All of Israel knew that Ruth had associated with God upon her confession of faith. Ruth became keenly aware that God had associated with her as she heard Boaz speak. The God of creation, The Lord of Glory, the Lifter of her head, heart, and hopes associated with her. Soaring above her head were the wings of God. Ruth did not have to point it out to Boaz; he saw it for himself. God associated Himself with Ruth.
Friend, look overhead this day for His wings. Seeing His wings over you should indicate to you what it indicated to Ruth. Your confession of faith in God secures your adoption, signifies your acceptance, and signals that God associates with you. What greater message of hope could you desire?