by John O’Malley
“And he said unto the kinsman, Naomi, that is come again out of the country of Moab, selleth a parcel of land, which was our brother Elimelech’s” (Ruth 4:3).
Boaz begins. He selects his words wisely. He is not speaking to the witnesses; he is speaking to the nearer kinsman. He begins with the word “Naomi.” Naomi, this charming woman of Bethlehem-judah, was known as pleasant or delightsome. The nearer kinsman knew full well of whom he spoke.
He said to the kinsman, “Naomi, that is come again out of the country of Moab…” The small town of Bethlehem-judah knew full well of Elimelech’s departure to find provision in Moab. Although a decade ago, it would be hard to forget the day watching them leave for Moab, enemies to God’s people. The family of Elimelech would suffer great loss in his decision. He would die; his sons would marry Moabite women and die. Heartache and disappointment would seize his family until news of bread from Bethlehem arrived.
Boaz spoke of her return, not her husband’s removal from Bethlehem-judah. Naomi’s return is what brought about the reward of redemption. Boaz made it clear: she had come home again. The word used in scripture is precise; it was the turning away from something and facing a new direction. There would have been no redemption had there not been a turning from Moab. This kind of turning is called repentance.
Many today want the blessing of redemption without returning. You cannot live with one foot in Moab and the other in the heart of Boaz. The reward of returning is redemption. Remaining in a place like Moab was a reward; it is the reward of regret. It is interesting to ponder that the people who left in a famine to seek provision suffered more than those who remained in the famine. There is a greater blessing in remaining during a famine than if you depart. Many a church member should learn this lesson when life’s famines arise. Stay with God in the place He last had you. You will suffer more seeking your own provision instead of waiting for His provision.
Naomi came back from her Moab. She lost everything, returned home, and found the Almighty still cared for her. How about you? Was there a time when you once walked closely with Him in the land of His provision? Did you leave in the midst of a famine? Why not return? Naomi would tell you plainly, “Moab will drain you of your delights.” Why not come home and find His reward?
Think about it...