by John O’Malley
“Then she said, Let me find favour in thy sight, my lord; for that thou hast comforted me, and for that thou hast spoken friendly unto thine handmaid, though I be not like unto one of thine handmaidens” (Ruth 2:13).
Ruth stood at ease before Boaz, her benefactor and channel of God’s blessing. Boaz had a way of speaking that seemed to usher away her fears. A deep settled peace swept over her as she relished Boaz’s words of kindness.
Initially she issued a request, “Let me find favor.” This revealed her humility. She then offered a response, “My lord,” which reflected her heart’s submission. Her words, “For that thou hast comforted me,”indicate a relaxation that had come to her soul.
The burden of the future had been lifted off Ruth’s heart. She stood before Boaz as a woman at peace with her future because she knew that she was no longer left to fend for herself. She had found her benefactor. Ruth had discovered God’s will for her life, and she was at peace in heart and mind.
The essence of Ruth’s phrase would be similar to a person breathing a sigh of relief as they discover their greatest fears have been relieved. Ruth truly could breathe a sigh of relief, as she had found both a benefactor and a place to belong.
Boaz comforted the heart of Ruth as she wondered about tomorrow. Boaz comforted the mind of Ruth as she concerned herself with provision. Ruth had no idea she would find such a level of protection in Boaz’s presence and promises. Ruth’s comfort came as she pondered the goodness of Boaz. His gestures of grace brought comfort to the heart of Ruth.
Boaz offered comforts for Ruth that exceeded her expectations. When she considered the goodness of his promises, protection, peace, and presence, she could breathe a sigh of relief. That relief was expressed in the single phrase “for that thou hast comforted me.”
Are you the type of believer that frets over tomorrow? Do you spend your time holding your breath and never fully relaxing in the promises, protection, peace, and presence of God? Have you a sense of peace and comfort that controls your heart and mind? Do you know the perfect peace that comes to those who wait on our Eternal Boaz?
There are comforts abundant in the presence of the Lord. Relax. Breathe a sigh of relief today. Our Eternal Boaz has comforts for your soul.