A Stranger in Bethlehem-judah

by John O’Malley

“Then she fell on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, and said unto him, Why have I found grace in thine eyes, that thou shouldest take knowledge of me, seeing I am a stranger?” (Ruth 2:10). 

 Ruth struggled as she reconciled her unworthiness in being a recipient of Boaz’s grace. Ruth’s deportment and disposition indicated this to Boaz and to any onlooker. Boaz had spoken so tenderly to her. She felt overwhelmed with a myriad of emotions. She wilted to the ground in humility. She had found grace in Boaz’s eyes. The inexplicable mystery in receiving Boaz’s grace left her baffled. 

 The unresolved matter in her heart was the core issue of her Moabite birth. The very point possessed her heart. It is quite evident in her statement when she confessed, “I am a stranger.” Blushing shame and broken sorrow punctuated her statement to Boaz. 

 Ruth’s perception of being a stranger seemed to have distressed her more than it did Boaz. Ruth seemed to be heavily influenced by her identity with Moab and her widowhood. Boaz focused more on her heart’s confession en route to Israel, her heart’s conversion to Jehovah, and her heart’s compassion toward Naomi, his relative. 

 “I am a stranger,” Ruth reminded Boaz. Yes, Ruth’s heritage made her a stranger; but her confession made her family to Boaz. Ruth’s homeland made her a stranger, but her conversion made her family to Boaz. Ruth’s hurts made her a stranger, but her compassion for Naomi made her family to Boaz. Boaz would see that Ruth would not be a stranger in Bethlehem-judah nor his fields. 

 In this world we are pilgrims and strangers; but in the family of God, no one should be a stranger. Consider what happens in our churches. Many unsaved guests come to our services while we never attempt to make them feel welcome and wanted. There are also occasions in our churches where unresolved conflicts with a fellow believer extend for years, and we treat that fellow believer as a stranger. 

 Let us take Boaz’s approach with sinners and believers alike and make sure no one is treated as a stranger. Perhaps today you feel estranged from the family of God. If a brother has offended you, go to them; seek reconciliation and pursue the path of restoration with them today.

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O How I Love Boaz

by John O’Malley

“That thou shouldest take knowledge of me, seeing I am a stranger?” (Ruth 2:10). 

 Ruth’s past hung around her neck like a medallion. Her speech revealed she was Moabite. Her clothing may have revealed she was a Moabite. Ruth’s reputation indicated she was a Moabite. 

 Her words and their message were clear. “I am a stranger in this land.” In Ruth’s thinking, her past affected her present; yet simply spending a few moments with Boaz made her past fade away and her future look bright. This sense of assurance bred adoration in Ruth’s heart for Boaz.

 Mankind’s past is marked by God’s separation. Our father, Adam, incurred the wrath of God. Because of God’s wrath, we were expelled from the place and presence of His fellowship; even then, we were never expelled from the promise of His fellowship if we would only return to Him in faith. 

 Man’s problems could not deter the love of our Eternal Boaz. Mankind stood before God with the problem of unforgiven sin, an unmistakable scar from our sin, and in an unfortunate situation because of our inability to settle our sin. Jesus Christ died on the cross to forgive our sins and take our scars. With His blood, He settled our debt with God. 

 The family of man stood in poverty before our Eternal Boaz. We saw the debt, but we could not pay. We knew the payment, but had nothing to pay. We could not cover our spiritual indebtedness. Mankind stood before him shameful and bankrupt of righteousness. Our sinful marring did not deter the grace of our Eternal Boaz. He loved us when we were unlovable. He took knowledge of us and loved us in spite of ourselves. 

 How is it “that thou shouldest take knowledge of me, seeing I am a stranger?” May we never wander from this truth! I was a stranger. My Eternal Boaz took me and loved me, though poor and with  a troubled past. How great is His love for this impoverished and problematic Moabite! Consider the hymn, “O How I Love Jesus!” When pondering the goodness of our Eternal Boaz, sing these words throughout this day:

 There is a name I love to hear, 
I love to sing its worth; 
It sounds like music in mine ear, 
The sweetest name on earth.” 

--Fredrick Whitfield

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Boaz Overlooks My Past

by John O’Malley

“That thou shouldest take knowledge of me, seeing I am a stranger?” (Ruth 2:10). 

 Ruth’s words, punctuated by humility, give us a window to her heart. Ruth demurely enquired about Boaz’s grace. She could not quite grasp why Boaz cared so much for her. Ruth, in her meek and modest way, had come solely to glean in the harvest; but had also gleaned Boaz’s heart. Boaz’s grace was the response to Ruth’s gleaning of his heart.

 Boaz had taken knowledge of Ruth. Boaz saw Ruth’s past, her problems, and her poverty; yet he still cared deeply for her. Although Ruth had a past that was unmistakably marred by her Moabite birth, Boaz still loved her. Ruth had problems abundant; still Boaz was unmovable in his commitment to Ruth. Ruth’s poverty was at an all-time low; yet Boaz still cared for her.

 Ruth had not intended to draw attention to herself. She simply came to Boaz’s field as a needy woman seeking a potential place of provision. She realized with amazement that Boaz was interested in her. She asked why he had taken knowledge of her. 

 Dear friend, you should know our Eternal Boaz also saw our past, our problems, and our poverty. Yet even then, He still loved us. Our Eternal Boaz’s love reaches far and touches all that come to Him.

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Unwrapped Presents of Grace

by John O’Malley

“And said unto him, Why have I found grace in thine eyes, that thou shouldest take knowledge of me, seeing I am a stranger?” (Ruth 2:10). 

 Although Ruth had responded from her heart and with humility, her first recorded words to Boaz in the inspired text are in the form of a question. She could not understand how she had garnered this kind of interest from such a gracious and powerful man. She asked, “Why have I found grace in thine eyes?”

 Ruth, from a prostrate position, spoke softly to Boaz. She enquired why she found grace in his eyes. She felt unworthy even to speak with him. Certainly before Ruth’s question of “why” was uttered, she reflected in her heart over the packages of grace that Boaz had presented to her since his arrival from Bethlehem-judah. In a single moment of time, she reviewed her unwrapped presents of Boaz’s grace. Listen to her thoughts:

 “Look at all the presents of grace that have been unwrapped! Boaz spoke to me when he could have ignored me. He called me “daughter” when everyone else called me “damsel.” He recognized me as an Israelite and not as a Moabite. Boaz granted me full and unhindered access to his fields. He arranged for me to stay by his maidens when he could have easily left me to fend for myself. Boaz sought to protect me from the young men that might have caused me harm. He gave me his vessels from which to drink. He even gave me someone to draw it out for me.”

 In only two verses, Boaz unwrapped seven presents of his grace. Boaz gave Ruth acknowledgement, adoption, acceptance, access, assurance, asylum, and affection. Ruth does not know what is about to happen in her life. Boaz has not exhausted his supply of grace for Ruth, God’s Gentile gem. Ruth will find in the days ahead that there is grace yet uncovered for both her home and her heart. 

 Our Eternal Boaz presented us the same seven presents of His grace when we accepted Him as Saviour. Our Boaz acknowledged us when we were yet sinners. Our Boaz adopted us as His own when no one else could help us. He called us sons, when we were sinners. He accepted us and acquired acceptance for us with the Father through His blood. Like Ruth, we were Moabite by birth; and now, by grace through faith, we are His children.

 Our Boaz gives us full access to His power, promises, and provision. Our Boaz gives us the assurance of His presence wherever we go. Our Boaz provides asylum from those who would harm and hinder us. Our Eternal Boaz reveals His affection for us by leaving us vessels of supply and servants to serve.

 Friend, although Ruth may have thought she had unwrapped all of Boaz’s presents of grace, she would find there were yet presents of His grace to be unwrapped in the days to come. Jesus, our Eternal Boaz, has not exhausted His presents of grace for His children. The longer we walk with Him, the sooner we will discover that each day He has presents of grace to be unwrapped.

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Revealing Her Heart and Humility

by John O’Malley

“Then she fell on her face, and bowed herself to the ground” (Ruth 2:10). 

 Ruth listened with her heart to the words Boaz spoke. He told her everything that he had prepared for her. Ruth saw in his eyes and heard from his heart the genuine compassion of Jehovah. This God-sent man had just settled every concern of her heart. Her fears of the future were met in Boaz’s promise. Her concerns for provision were met in Boaz. Her concerns for Naomi’s quality of life were met in Boaz.

 She was looking into the eyes of one who cared deeply for her. What words could she say in response to such an outpouring? Her heart responded before her lips could form words. Instantly, she dropped to the ground and hid her face from Boaz. 

 Ruth fell on her face as an unworthy servant. Ruth knew there was nothing that she could offer Boaz of value or merit. Knowing she was the recipient of his power, provision, and promise, this was not a moment for trying to find fitting words to express her inward gratitude. This was a moment reserved for appreciating the kindness of Boaz. Ruth knew she could never repay Boaz for his generosity, goodness, and grace. Ruth knew that she did not deserve his attention or his affection. 

 Ruth’s first response was from within. When she fell on her face, it revealed her humility. When she bowed herself to the ground, she revealed her heart. She cared not about those standing around who were peering in her direction. Her response came from within as she pondered the goodness of Boaz.

 We would do well to remember that we live our lives in the presence of our Eternal Boaz.Often we are too casual in our approach to Him. We neglect to reflect on our first meeting when He saved us from a life of misery. It seems most believers have become comfortable with His grace, casual in His presence, and calloused in their hearts.

 Will those around you today see your heart and humility?

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Protected by Boaz

by John O’Malley

“Let thine eyes be on the field that they do reap, and go thou after them: have I not charged the young men that they shall not touch thee? and when thou art athirst, go unto the vessels, and drink of that which the young men have drawn” (Ruth 2:9). 

 Boaz took the time, before his conversation with Ruth, to seek out the young men in his field that had selfish interests and ill motives. He informed them that Ruth, the beautiful Moabite, was off limits to them. Boaz wanted no one to harm, hurt, or hinder the Gentile gem God had placed in his care. 

 Ruth, a poor, widowed stranger in the land, had no husband to protect her. She had no father to stand for her cause in matters of the heart and home. Her arrival in Boaz’s field during such a tumultuous time in Israel had brought this reality to the forefront. The words“have I not charged the young men that they shall not touch thee?” spoke volumes to her heart. 

 Ruth’s heart filled with joy as she realized the efforts Boaz had made, even before he had spoken with her, for her protection. Ruth listened intently to Boaz. She recognized that Boaz met everything she needed at this moment in her life. 

 Ruth needed a place to glean; Boaz met the need. She needed provision for her future; Boaz met the need. She needed protection from the self-gratifying men of the day; Boaz met the need. She reckoned with certainty that Boaz was sufficient for her.

 We need to remember that as the days grow dark and gloomy, and as Satan roams about with his selfish interests and ill motives, our Eternal Boaz is protecting us. When Satan seeks to rob us of the confidence of His provision, rest assured that our Eternal Boaz is providing for us. When our hearts feel empty and hurting, our Eternal Boaz has left a handful of purpose for us. 

 Reader, we would do well to recognize that our Eternal Boaz is sufficient for all our needs.Our needs for provision and protection are met fully, and only, in Him. Keep looking up; our Eternal Boaz is near!

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Water for the Weary

by John O’Malley

“Then said Boaz unto Ruth…drink of that which the young men have drawn” (Ruth 2:8-9). 

 The servants of Boaz had a new assignment from him. The assignment involved Boaz’s newest gleaner, Ruth. The servants were to draw out water and permit Ruth to have it for her refreshing. Though this would not be the usual and customary method for gleaners to have refreshment, Boaz delighted in meeting Ruth’s needs exceedingly and abundantly above all she could even ask or think.

 The obedient act of his servants in drawing water for this weary worker must not be overlooked. Ruth, though weary from the fields, would have full access to the vessels, water, and servants assigned to this task. Caring servants, responsible for the water, would be able to spot the weary one on her way to the water and could have it ready for her refreshing upon her arrival.

 Servants of the Eternal Boaz, look around you today. Nearby, there may be a weary Ruth that needs refreshing. You may say, “I have not been given that command.” Or you may say, “I am too busy today to even take the time to think of refreshing a believer.” 

 Please take this then as a gentle reminder from God’s Word. Jesus said that we should wash one another’s feet. Are we too busy to provide refreshing for weary workers? Our Lord lived thirty-three years upon this earth, and He took the time to refresh His fellow workers. Should we not? 

 Foot washing is not a literal duty today, nor is it to be viewed as a third church ordinance. It is a command for the servants of the Eternal Boaz to refresh workers and not neglect the needs of a weary Ruth around us. 

 Have you ever encountered a weary worker of God? You may see them in church or out in public. You may have noticed that they look a little weary in their well doing. Do not forget to look to the mission field where your missionaries serve our Eternal Boaz. Do their shoulders look drooped? Are their heads hanging simply a little? 

 You are a servant of the Eternal Boaz. Rise up, get the refreshing water of the Word of God, and find a way to bring them this water. A letter, phone call, or even a visit will refresh a weary worker and will renew his soul.

 As servants of Boaz, let us be mindful of His servants and their needs. Determine today to find a weary worker and encourage them!

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A Servant To Draw

by John O’Malley

“Then said Boaz unto Ruth…drink of that which the young men have drawn” (Ruth 2:8-9). 

 Boaz’s heartfelt explanation to Ruth conveyed he cared deeply for her. His instructions to his servants revealed that he was concerned for Ruth’s safety, security, sustenance, and satisfaction. He told them not to harm or hinder this gentle soul, but to help her. 

 He instructed the young men to draw water when she was thirsty. His helpers knew from these instructions that she was dear to the heart of Boaz. A weary Ruth could make her way to the vessels, ordinarily assigned to the workers, and get refreshment from the young men assigned to draw water. She would not have to explain to them why she had a right to the water of the reapers. Boaz’s orders required them simply to draw it out.

 The picture of a meek Ruth coming over to the well is a vivid image in my mind’s eye. The young servants have been given the responsibility to draw out water for Ruth. In order for Ruth to receive her promised water, the servants would have to know the words of Boaz. These servants drawing the water for Ruth would also need to yield to the words and will of Boaz. 

 Believers today are in a similar situation as Boaz’s servants. Our Eternal Boaz has given us commands to fulfill on His behalf.We are to love the brethren. We are not to forsake our assembling together as believers in church. We are to evangelize the world with the gospel. Our Eternal Boaz’s commands are non-negotiable. We are simply servants assigned to a task.

 How well are we doing in obeying our Eternal Boaz? Are we aware of the words of our Boaz? Are we yielded to the will of our Boaz? Are we doing the work of our Boaz?

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Boaz Quenches My Thirst

by John O’Malley

“And when thou art athirst, go unto the vessels, and drink of that which the young men have drawn” (Ruth 2:9). 

 Boaz had thought of every need Ruth could contemplate and met them in advance. Ruth felt special to be cared for in this manner. Though Moabitish by birth, she was finding that Jehovah provides for His children. As a girl growing up, all she had known were the gods of Moab. She knew those gods to be lifeless and uncaring; but in Bethlehem-judah, things were different for Jehovah’s children.

 Ruth discovered quickly that Boaz had provided for her protection in his fields from the young men who might make her feel uncomfortable. Boaz had given her his promise that she could come to his fields and glean with his regular gleaners and reapers. As if that were not enough, Boaz instructed her that if she thirsted, he had made provision for her.

 Certainly, Ruth would get thirsty in the days ahead as she labored in the fields of Boaz. Typically, gleaners of Ruth’s status would bring their own refreshment and provisions to the field; however, Boaz informed her that she would not need to bring her own vessel, because he would have one for her. Ruth would not have to draw water for herself; Boaz would have the young men to draw out the water for her refreshment as she labored. 

 The two shared this moment of tenderness together, not as employer and an employee; but rather as two souls brought together, fulfilling a divine purpose and embracing God’s destiny. Her heart was full. The thirst of her body would be satisfied with water from Boaz. Boaz would quench the thirst of her heart, and Jehovah had quenched the thirst of her soul. Ruth knew the truth: God is good to His people! 

 When did our Eternal Boaz last quench your thirst? Does your heart recall the day when the Eternal Boaz offered the water of life freely to you? Do you well remember when the thirst of your soul was satiated in Him? 

 Our Eternal Boaz offers water for the soul’s salvation. He offers in His Word, living water for our spirit’s thirst. He offers water to both the weary and the worn. Have you a thirsting for His water this day? “O taste and see that the Lord is good”(Psalm 34:8).

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Follow the Directions

by John O’Malley

“Then said Boaz unto Ruth, Hearest thou not, my daughter?” (Ruth 2:8). 

 Ruth listened intently, and she fully understood Boaz’s instructions. Boaz wanted her to be aware of three priorities pertaining to his harvest. In essence Boaz said, “Stay with my fields, stay in fellowship with my maidens, and keep your eyes on my harvest.”

 There was no need for Boaz to say it twice. Ruth would need no further reminders about those instructions. She did not have to be told to stay, because she wanted to stay and serve. There was nothing any other Boaz could offer that could be better. She resolved in her heart that she had come to stay.

 Ruth knew that in order to have Boaz’s fullest blessings she would have to stay in his fields. She could not expect the protection, provision, and promises of Boaz if she was in the field of another. Ruth determined that if he cared so much for her, why would she want to leave his fields?

 Boaz told her to stay with his maidens and follow them wherever they went. Ruth already had met some of his gleaners and his reapers. This would not be difficult, for there was a kindred spirit among them. She enjoyed the harvest fellowship they were having. She could not imagine what would draw her attention from this fellowship of harvesters to anyone else’s fellowship.

 Ruth heard Boaz’s words, “Let thine eyes be on the field.” Though this seemed so basic, there must be a reason he told her this. She pondered, “I wonder what could take my eyes off of the harvest? How could I be in the harvest fields and still not see the harvest?” She determined she would keep these things close to her heart. She knew she would not want to disappoint Boaz in any way. Since these were Boaz’s directions, she would follow them.

 Far too often, believers today tend to wander from their Eternal Boaz’s fields seeking their own provisions and promise of fulfillment. So many times, we miss the blessing of His handfuls of purpose. Many seem to have lost the joy of fellowshipping with other harvesters. It is easy to be in the harvest fields and miss the harvest around usas we become absorbed in “busy-ness.” 

 Friend, our Eternal Boaz has given us similar directions to follow. Let us determine today that we will keep our feet in His fields, our eyes on His harvest, and our hearts with His harvesters.

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Sinner Saved by Grace

by John O’Malley

“Then said Boaz unto Ruth…Let thine eyes be on the field that they do reap, and go thou after them: have I not charged the young men that they shall not touch thee? and when thou art athirst, go unto the vessels, and drink of that which the young men have drawn”  (Ruth 2:8-9). 

 Ruth listened with delight, as Boaz’s words seemed to go from his heart straight to her heart. She knew this was unusual. The lord of the harvest, himself, had taken interest in her. 

 Ruth knew there was nothing comely about her heritage, her homeland, or her history. She wondered, “What could he see in me? I am simply a Moabite by birth and an Israelite by grace.” She knew her own background. It took no effort for her to revisit that hopeless feeling that was buried six feet deep in her heart. The day her husband died, many things died within her heart as he was buried in the sands of Moab. 

 Hope had been dormant for what seemed like an eternity; yet, Boaz’s words seemed to kindle hope’s fire in her bosom. She considered and contemplated Boaz’s words. This was more than simply an employer speaking with an employee. Boaz had taken special interest in Ruth, and she reacquainted herself with hope again. 

 Ruth pushed back the hair from her brow and looked at Boaz’s heart through his eyes. She could see Boaz cared for her. Though she could not understand why Boaz would care so much for her, she graciously nodded her head to signal to him that she understood. Inwardly, her heart was about to burst with thanksgiving to God for His gracious providing of her needs.

 Those who have tasted of the heavenly gift know well the feelings Ruth experienced at that moment. We look at ourselves and ponder why our Eternal Boaz would love us so much. Like Ruth, we look at our heritage, and we are ruined. We look at our homeland, and we are scarred. We look at our history, and we have nothing to offer.

 Though we are unworthy, our Eternal Boaz still speaks words of grace that reach our hearts from just outside the city’s gate on Calvary’s cross. His words kindle eternal hope in our hearts. Our unworthiness of receiving His grace is aptly described in the song, “Sinner, Saved by Grace.”

         If you could see what I once was, if you could go with me, 

Back to where I started from, then I know you would see, 

A miracle of love that brought me to His warm embrace, 

He made me what I am today, a sinner saved by grace. 

I’m just a sinner saved by grace!            

— Gaither/Humphries

 Never forget that it was His grace that brought you from Moab to His fields. It will be His grace that keeps you in His fields. Rest assured, at life’s end, it will be His grace that will escort you home.

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Abide Here

John O’Malley

“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 2:8). 

 The words “But abide here fast by my maidens” must have made Ruth’s heart leap. Ruth, the immigrant and convert from Moab, had found a home. Ruth, whose conversion to Jehovah had caused no small stir in Bethlehem-judah, had found a home in the fields of Boaz. Boaz told Ruth to go nowhere else. 

 Boaz’s words were clear; they spoke directly to her heart. Boaz’s harvest field would provide Ruth food for her body, fellowship for her soul, and friends for her heart. Ruth would not need to fret any more about her future prosperity. Ruth would not need to ponder over tomorrow’s provision. She would no longer need to wonder whether she would ever find a kindred spirit to share her heart’s dreams and delights. 

 Boaz had told Ruth, “Abide here fast.” She was not to wander away from his field. Ruth would not have to wonder whether provision were better anywhere else. Ruth would not have to wither away, starved for friendship. Everything she needed was there with Boaz and his gleaners.

 Beware: the world will offer cheap imitations of everything Boaz provides.Would to God we would repeat this message to ourselves and to this generation!

1.            “Abide here fast”—everything we need as reapers and gleaners can be found in our Eternal Boaz’s field. 

2.            “Abide here fast”—seek your friends and fellowship in our Eternal Boaz’s field. 

3.            “Abide here fast”—find comfort and satisfaction in our Eternal Boaz’s field. 

 Ruth found that Boaz’s promises were sure and reliable. Ruth would prove Boaz’s word steadfast. Ruth would test his word in the field. Soon, Ruth would test Boaz’s word in the threshing floor. Later, Ruth would test his word while she waited at home for him to come from the city’s gate as Boaz obtained her redemption. Ruth would know from this moment forward that Boaz would keep his word.

 What about you, dear reader? Upon our salvation, our Eternal Boaz told us, “Abide here fast.” Have you? Or have you been of the sort to abide only when it is convenient and comfortable? In your church attendance, in your ministry service, in your marriage, in everything you do, heed our Eternal Boaz’s call, to “abide here fast.”

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Your Search Is Over

by John O’Malley

“Then said Boaz unto Ruth... Go not to glean in another field” (Ruth 2:8).

 Boaz’s offer of his provision and protection was not lost on Ruth. Boaz brought Ruth under the umbrella of his authority when he called her daughter. Though his servant had given Ruth access, an area to work, and an assignment, Boaz gave her something his servant could not give. He gave her adoption. 

 Her adoption signaled to the community that she was not without a kinsman. This adoption prevented her from having to find provision somewhere else. Boaz’s adoption of Ruth exempted her from seeking protection from someone else. Ruth’s adoption indicated that she would no longer need to ponder the future; Boaz had embraced her into the family. Boaz’s adoption sent one resounding message, “Your search for a place is over; you are at home now.”

 The message of Boaz’s invitation to Ruth must not be lost in our cultural ignorance. Boaz’s inclusion of Ruth in his harvest work assured her that she did not need to go anywhere else to glean. It was as if he was saying, “I will take care of all your tomorrows. Your future is secure. You have everything you need right here. I will take care of you from here on out. Your search is over.”

 When reading these words of Boaz, it is easy to sense his comfort and concern; yet there exists a greater meaning for the believer. Boaz’s words should reveal a command for every believer to heed. We are not to seek our own provision, protection, or promise from anywhere, anyone, or anything else. Our Eternal Boaz has placed in the field of His will everything we need.

 “Go not to glean in another field”is a command worth heeding. Why on earth would you run from job to job, church to church, and spouse to spouse, seeking personal satisfaction? Our Eternal Boaz has placed everything we need in the field of His will. Determine this day to seek provision, protection, and promises only from our Boaz.

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From Damsel to Daughter

by John O’Malley

“Then said Boaz unto Ruth, Hearest thou not, my daughter?” (Ruth 2:8). 

 Boaz looked intently at this gentle soul that had come to glean in his fields. Ruth had gleaned far more than Boaz’s harvest; Ruth had also gleaned his heart. He gazed at this damsel who had recently come from Moab. Boaz saw Ruth as he had seen no other gleaner.

 Ruth, who had turned to Jehovah by faith, now stood before him vulnerable and transparent. Boaz sensed within his bosom a divine responsibility. God had placed upon him the responsibility of offering his protection and provision to Ruth. Boaz sensed that she was God’s valuable vessel.

 Ruth’s heart continued to pound furiously. What would he say to her? She wanted to hear his soothing voice and personal message. Would she have to leave his fields? Would she find that she was unwanted because she was a widow? Inwardly, she might have even convinced herself she would have to leave because she was, by birth, a Moabite. 

 Ruth’s thoughts were coming fast. Apparently, Ruth’s thoughts were so loud, she might not have heard Boaz’s voice when he first spoke. Notice what Boaz said, “Hearest thou not, my daughter?” 

 In one statement, Ruth went from a damsel to a daughter. “My daughter”: these two words were heard in her heart. What she lacked in protection and provision had been met in Boaz. Boaz, in one phrase, brought Ruth into his harvest field and into his heart. 

 The ache of loneliness dissipated in an instant. Security and stability were now ushered into her heart where loneliness once reigned.

 Often, my wife Kimberly will ask the story of a couple’s first meeting. She revels in the details of what attracted the one to the other. She loves to hear the occasion of how the man asked the woman to be his wife. My wife has found everyone tells their story with a twinkle in their eye and with joy in their voice. 

 For the believer, there was a day in eternity past where our Boaz was attracted to us, and He saw our greatest need. We, who had been orphaned, widowed, and even marooned by sin, now were offered the provision of his resources (“my”) and the protection of his righteousness (“daughter”).

 We too have a story to tell. It is a story of when we met Boaz. Remember to tell it with a twinkle in your eye and joy in your voice. We must tell others how He brought us from a damsel to a daughter, from a sinner to a saint.

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Swift to Hear

by John O’Malley

 “Then said Boaz unto Ruth” (Ruth 2:8).

Until this moment, we have no recorded words between Boaz and Ruth. Ruth had noticed Boaz’s interest in her. Since Boaz’s arrival, both the servant and Boaz would look her way, and then speak earnestly with each other. They would gesture with their hands, and then both would glance her way. 

 What could they be saying? What could she have done that would have garnered this kind of attention? Ruth reviewed the morning hours in her mind. What thoughts those must have been! Listen to what she could have been thinking:

 “I know when I came to the field this morning that I first spoke to that servant. Oh, the compassion I sensed in his ability to listen; it seemed he hung on my every word. It was a bit unusual that a stranger would show this kind of concern and compassion on behalf of his master. 

It seemed his heart was prepared for my arrival. What was that word Naomi said when she told me one of the stories of our Father Abraham? Yes, I remember now, Jehovah-jireh. Yes, God had provided a ram in the thicket for Abraham and a servant in the field for me. I really wanted to thank the servant more, but I sensed that the praise for that servant belonged to God. Yes, God loves me!

 He told me I could glean among the sheaves. I have so much enjoyed working here amongst the servants of Boaz. I have attempted to do the best I could. I have only taken one break. I hope they do not want me to leave. I know I am simply a Moabitish damsel; I am unwanted by most, but I felt like I belonged again. Please God, make it so I can stay and work here!”

 There was no more time for reviewing the morning’s events in the journal of her heart. Boaz was headed her way. Her heart began to beat faster; her palms became sweaty and her mouth dried in an instant. 

 What would he say to her? Each step seemed to take an eternity; she simply had to hear what he was going to tell her. If Boaz’s servant could listen to her with compassion, what must Boaz be like?

 Reader, many times we lose our sense of anticipation of hearing from our Eternal Boaz. It is as if we think we know what He is going to say, so we lose our eagerness to listen to God through His Word. Thankfully, Ruth did not listen to Boaz as most believers today listen to God. 

 There is a sense of half-heartedness and complacency in many believers when it comes to their personal time of listening to the Lord in His Word. Dear reader, when did you last become stirred over what God would say to you when you read His Word. When did you last sense He was speaking to your heart in a church service?How long has it been since you heard God speak to your heart?Ruth yearned to hear from Boaz. Do you?

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“He Speaks and the Sound of His Voice”

by John O’Malley

“Then said Boaz unto Ruth” (Ruth 2:8).

 While God was at work in Moab bringing out Ruth for Himself, He was also working in Bethlehem-judah on Boaz. Boaz’s background prepared him for this moment of conversation. His mother was Rahab from Jericho. His father was an Israelite prince. He was an original inhabitant of Ephratah. God had given him good relationships in his community, great resources under his control, and the desire to be a gracious kinsman-redeemer.

 Boaz enquired of his servant the details of Ruth’s arrival, her activity, her associations, and her abilities. Boaz, a seeker of God’s way and a steward in God’s work, had heard and observed all the transactions related to Ruth. Boaz would not be without comment. 

 In a few moments, Boaz will offer Ruth his protection, provision, and handfuls of purpose. Boaz and Ruth, as a couple, will be long remembered in Israel’s history. In a single moment of time, God’s plan takes shape and the rest is His story. 

 Let us not lightly consider that our Eternal Boaz is observing our harvest work. He has invested much in this harvest and He expects our best. God watched our arrival into His harvest field. He evaluates our activities, associations, and the use of our abilities in His field. Our Eternal Boaz even sent us His Servant, the Holy Spirit, to comfort us until the day He comes to get His gleaners for Himself.

 Though we have not heard with our ears the actual, audible voice of our Eternal Boaz, there is coming a day when we will hear Him speak. The dictionary cannot contain enough words to describe our joy when we hear His voice for the first time on the other side. 

 C. Austin Miles, the songwriter, wrote in his song “In the Garden” these words that could describe our coming joy and Ruth’s present joy in hearing Boaz’s voice:

He speaks, and the sound of His voice, 
Is so sweet the birds hush their singing,
And the melody that He gave to me, 
Within my heart is ringing.

 The sense of anticipation in hearing the voice of our Boaz should be enough to carry us through the harvest from this day until we actually hear His voice.

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A Time for Resting

by John O’Malley

“And she said, I pray you, let me glean and gather after the reapers among the sheaves: so she came, and hath continued even from the morning until now, that she tarried a little in the house” (Ruth 2:7).

 The servant related to Boaz about Ruth’s devotion to the harvest, Ruth’s desire to harvest, Ruth’s determination in the harvest, and Ruth’s dedication to the harvest. The servant was impressed with her declarations to him and her duty to his boss. At the end of his testimony of Ruth’s demeanor, he mentioned an interesting point for the believer to ponder.

 The servant set over the reapers said Ruth had “continued even from the morning until now, that she tarried a little in the house. ”Notice with me his last eight words: “that she tarried a little in the house.” It is apparent that Ruth was a good harvester for Boaz. The servant pointed out to Boaz that Ruth had tarried only a “little” in the house. 

 The servant set over the reapers had a place where all in his charge could come and seek refreshment and rest. Service in the field requires rest and refreshing. After a period of work, the reapers would come to the house and gather for fellowship. The resting house was also a place of rejoicing when the harvest was completed.

 The thought of a house in which to rest from our labors brings two concerns to mind in light of this present generation. The first concern is that of God’s laborers ignoring times of needed rest. Many times, in the service of our Eternal Boaz, we pride ourselves in our work and brag that we never take a break or a time to rest. Ruth was a diligent worker, both in her reaping and her resting.

 The second concern is one that is far too common among twenty-first century believers. This is the danger of all rest and no labor. Many today have made a ministry of staying in the house and never going to the fields. 

 It is clear that it could be said of those like this, “They have tarried too long and labored too little for our Eternal Boaz.” You can always spot those in this way; they are the spiritual hogs of the church. They linger long at the trough and do little but grunt if they cannot feed their bellies. 

 It should be overwhelmingly apparent that the believer working in the field should make regular trips to the house of God. We should go to the house of our Eternal Boaz for rest from the noonday sun after we have labored for Him. 

 We should get to the house of our Eternal Boaz; it is there we will meet other harvesters, and we can fellowship over our labors. We should get to the house of our Eternal Boaz, and listen to His words of encouragement for our needed refreshment. We should get to the house of our Eternal Boaz for times of rejoicing over the harvest.

 Temporary rest is vital; full-time rest is for when we leave this earth for the eternal house of our Boaz. “Let us therefore labor to enter into that rest” (Hebrews 4:11).

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She Came to Continue

by John O’Malley

“So she came, and hath continued even from the morning until now” (Ruth 2:7). 

 Boaz’s servant had been explaining the events surrounding the arrival of Ruth to Boaz. When he came from Bethlehem-judah, Boaz found this woman that came to glean in his fields. However, it seems that since his arrival, she had gleaned much more than his harvest; she had gleaned his heart. Boaz was taken with Ruth’s presence in the field. The servant told Boaz about Ruth’s devotion, her desire, her determination, and her dedication concerning working in the harvest. 

 The first element of the phrase reads, “So she came.” Yes, Ruth was given access to the fields of Boaz. She could come and go in the fields that day with the authority of the servant. She did not have to sneak into the fields or operate in a covert manner. She had full access to Boaz’s fields. 

 Ruth was even given an area where she was to work for Boaz. She was to glean among the sheaves for Boaz. She had an area with which to concern herself. She did not have to look after another’s work, only her own.

 Ruth had a specific activity to carry out for Boaz. Anything that was dropped, she was to pick up. Not a grain of barley was to be left in the field. Every grain was important to Boaz, so what was important to Boaz became important to her. Boaz’s assignment became her chief activity.

We must not look lightly upon the next phrase in verse seven, “And hath continued.” Ruth came early and stayed late to get the job finished for Boaz. Ruth knew that harvesting was daylight work. She had to be in her area, fulfilling her assignment for Boaz, in order to complete the harvest work. Ruth determined that she had come to Boaz’s fields to stay. 

Have you come to stay in the fields of our Eternal Boaz? Have you determined to stay and complete your assignment? Have you decided that you are going to step back and let others take care of things? Did you get to the harvest field, see the workload, and then quit? 

Harvesting souls, both locally and globally, is daylight work. The night is coming when no man can work. Make up your mind that you have come to our Eternal Boaz’s harvest to continue.

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Ruth’s Dedication

by John O’Malley

“From the morning until now” (Ruth 2:7). 

 As the sun rose to meet the hills of Judah, Ruth was seen walking toward the terraced hillside belonging to Boaz. Ruth’s heart was clear when she left the house that morning. Ruth left seeking provision from a benefactor. Ruth found all that she needed in Boaz’s field. Boaz looked Ruth’s way. Ruth, a simple Moabite girl, had gleaned more than his harvest. Ruth had gleaned Boaz’s heart. Ruth had not even spoken a word to Boaz, yet God brought their hearts together. 

 Boaz both saw and heard the servant’s testimony of the dedication of Ruth’s heart. Clearly Ruth’s devotion, desire, and determination in the harvest were not forced. She did not have to fake her level of commitment to the harvest. Her participation in the harvest came from within her heart. Ruth’s heart contained the overwhelming appreciation for the opportunity to glean for Naomi’s sustenance. 

 Ruth’s commitment to Naomi raised the level of intensity she felt inwardly. Ruth had to find a place to glean. When she arrived and met the approval of the servant set over the reapers, she set out in her heart to stay and work in earnest. This decision revealed Ruth’s dedication to the harvest of Boaz.

 Ruth’s dedication to the harvest made an impression on the servant. “From morning till now,” said the servant to Boaz. These words declared Ruth’s dedication to the harvest. The servant had seen many gleaners come to the field, but something about Ruth was different. Ruth’s heart maintained a level of dedication to the harvest that was noteworthy.

 Other gleaners may have come and discussed with Ruth about the quality and quantity in the corners of other fields. These statements could easily have been unintentional attempts to sway Ruth’s dedication. Yet Ruth’s dedication of heart was not affected by the comments of her co-workers or conditions in other fields.

 The servant’s testimony to Boaz of Ruth’s participation in the harvest should reveal to believers a spiritual checklist of the heart. Our Eternal Boaz knows the content of our hearts. He sees when our dedication wavers and wanders. Would our Eternal Boaz say of us, “From the morning of our relationship until now, you have been in the harvest”? May Ruth’s dedication be our dedication until our Eternal Boaz calls us home!

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Ruth’s Determination

by John O’Malley

“After the reapers among the sheaves” (Ruth 2:7). 

 Boaz’s servant was in the midst of relating Ruth’s conversation with him to Boaz. Boaz’s interest has been piqued by this gentle soul who came to glean in his field. He enquired of this servant that he had set over his reapers about the new gleaner. 

 Previously, we considered how the servant was uniquely impressed by her devotion and desire. However, this phrase“after the reapers among the sheaves”helps us to discover Ruth’s determination.

 The phrase from verse seven indicates to me the level of Ruth’s determination for Boaz’s harvest fields. Ruth was determined not to seek a lofty position in Boaz’s harvest. She wanted to be in a place “after the reapers.” She was not seeking to be elevated to reaper status; she only wanted to be behind the ones doing the reaping. She was determined to be involved in the shadows of the harvest work. She did not want the spotlight for herself.

 Furthermore, Ruth was not looking for the easiest place to labor; she merely wanted to pick up the droppings around the sheaves. Ruth cared only that she got to be involved in the harvest, not whether she was noticed in the harvest. Her mind was set on harvest work, not her own worth.

 Ruth’s level of determination is quite convicting in light of the present situation in our churches concerning the Lord’s harvest of souls at home and abroad. Today, many Christians have only a casual interest in our Eternal Boaz’s fields. They want to hear the unique stories from the harvest field, but never care to do anything themselves. They love the missionary stories, but they will not exert an ounce of determination toward being involved in giving or going to the mission field.

 Our Eternal Boaz is aware of your participation in His harvest.Your pastor is concerned for your involvement in the harvest. Remember your pastor is God’s servant set over you as a reaper. Hebrews 13:17 commands believers to “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.”

 When it comes to doing God’s work in your church, contemplate and then answer these three questions:

1.            Does my devotion to the harvest meet the approval of my Eternal Boaz and my pastor? 

2.            Does my desire for the harvest meet the approval of my Eternal Boaz and my pastor? 

3.            Does my determination for the harvest meet the approval of my Eternal Boaz and my pastor? 

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