Come Thou Hither

by John O’Malley

“And Boaz said unto her, At mealtime come thou hither, and eat of the bread, and dip thy morsel in the vinegar. And she sat beside the reapers: and he reached her parched corn, and she did eat, and was sufficed, and left” (Ruth 2:14). 

Boaz sought a level of fellowship with Ruth that was unique. Boaz recognized that Ruth’s labors for him would make her weary in the work. He knew she would encounter difficult moments when he would not be with her. He was aware that Ruth would need an encouraging word that would help her to go on as she labored for him. He could not always be beside her, but he determined to place a word of encouragement in her heart. He told her, “When your labors are ended meet me here for a meal.” 

Boaz requested of Ruth, “At mealtime come thou hither.” He wanted Ruth to come near his side and be near him. It was more than simply, “Would you get to this specific place,” but rather, “Ruth, I want you near my side and in touch with my heart. I want you to be right here with me when you finish the labors of the morning.” When the heat of the day was in full force, he wanted Ruth in his presence.

How precious it is to realize that Boaz wanted Ruth to be near him. Boaz had friends with whom he could eat. Boaz did not even need to come to the meal in the field. Boaz assured Ruth that when her labors were ended, he would be there for her. Ruth could go back to the field and glean with a comforted, contented heart, knowing that in only a little while, she would meet Boaz, and he would bring her comfort when her labors were ended. 

If you are involved in your church’s ministry, you know that at times the labors become laborious. You are aware that working with people can breed frustration. You have come to learn that a misplaced expectation in people always brings disappointments. Circumstances have a way of diminishing hope. The heat of the day will oftentimes sap our confidence in being able to finish with success.

We oftentimes forget that our Eternal Boaz is looking over the field of our lives. We neglect the fact that He is watching with interest. We fail to remember that we have His invitation after our labors to meet Him for eternity. Our Eternal Boaz has prepared a place at His table and in His home for His laborers. We have His Word that a day is coming when our labors are ended and He will say, “It is mealtime; come thou hither.” A day is coming when we will have eternal fellowship with the One from Whose Word we have taken hope, the One by Whom we have been comforted.

What is weighing you down today? What has seized your attention away from His promises? What thing could possibly erode your confidence in the day He will call us to His side forever? Take hope, weary worker; at mealtime, we will go home!

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Mealtime With Boaz

by John O’Malley

“And Boaz said unto her, At mealtime come thou hither, and eat of the bread, and dip thy morsel in the vinegar. And she sat beside the reapers: and he reached her parched corn, and she did eat, and was sufficed, and left” (Ruth 2:14). 

Ruth could hardly believe her ears; Boaz wanted her to eat with him at mealtime! Ruth’s heart must have been uplifted as she considered the lord of this harvest wanted her to be near him when the mealtime came in the field. Many workers were in his field working, but he chose Ruth to be with him. Other widowed gleaners were in his field, but Boaz specifically chose her to come near and eat with him. This was not only for one meal; but from then on, she was to gather at the appointed time and place for the purpose of fellowshipping with Boaz.

Mealtime in the harvest field was a time when they would gather and rehearse the morning’s labors. Mealtime was when they would look ahead toward what must be done before sunset. Mealtime was when the workers would gather and rest for refreshment of both the heart and spirit.

Ruth’s mealtime would not be spent in solitude as a stranger because Boaz told Ruth, “At mealtime come thou hither.” In these five words, Boaz communicated his desire to fellowship with Ruth. In essence, Boaz told Ruth. “When your body is hungry, come to me for food. When your spirit is hungry, come to me for fellowship. When your heart is hungry, come to me for friendship.” 

We would do well to realize that our Eternal Boaz extends this same offer of fellowship to us. He longs to be with us at mealtime. At His mealtime, we can discuss the morning’s labors. We also can learn the remaining things that need to be done by the sunset of our lives. During His mealtime, we can enjoy His grace and goodness. How often do we permit ourselves to miss mealtime with our Eternal Boaz?

Every believer should anticipate mealtime with our Eternal Boaz. We should not neglect one mealtime with Him. Our mealtime with Boaz should bring refreshment to our spirits and rest to our souls. The time you meet with God to begin and end your day is a mealtime to fellowship with Boaz. The time you gather at church should be a mealtime with Boaz. Our Eternal Boaz has prepared something for us today, so “at mealtime come thou hither.”

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A Relationship of Grace

by John O’Malley

“And Boaz said unto her, At mealtime come thou hither, and eat of the bread, and dip thy morsel in the vinegar. And she sat beside the reapers: and he reached her parched corn, and she did eat, and was sufficed, and left” (Ruth 2:14). 

The conversation between Boaz and Ruth continued, and we discover more images to insert into the scrapbook of Ruth’s heart. Things were not the same for Ruth after Boaz brought her under the umbrella of his protection. One visit to the terraced hillside of Boaz’s fields changed her life. Ruth’s visit of faith to find a benefactor on the hillside outside of Bethlehem-judah brought her into a relationship of grace with Boaz. 

Boaz offered to Ruth a relationship of grace, and she accepted. From that moment forward, Boaz’s grace evicted the loneliness, the hurt, and the fears of Ruth’s heart. Meeting Boaz caused Ruth’s fears to be replaced with a bright future. Ruth’s relationship with Boaz replaced her hurts with comfort. Ruth’s widowed heart had found a companion in the presence and promises of Boaz. 

Because of the grace of Boaz, Ruth found that some things were missing in her life. Gone were Ruth’s days of aching loneliness in Moab. Gone were Ruth’s heart-wrenching visits to a graveside in Moab. Gone were Ruth’s days of worrying and wondering about her tomorrows. She quickly discovered that the benefits of a relationship with Boaz were innumerable.

Ruth learned what believers discover when they come to God. Those that enter a relationship of grace with the Eternal Boaz find benefits abundant. God’s grace removes their failures and replaces them with His forgiveness. His grace takes their fears and replaces them with faith. His grace provides a peace that passes all understanding. Truly, the benefits of a relationship with the Eternal Boaz are countless. 

Have you made a journey of faith like Ruth and found a relationship of grace with our Eternal Boaz? This journey is not to Bethlehem-judah, but rather to Jerusalem’s hillside. On a hillside outside of Jerusalem, called Calvary, many have entered a relationship of grace with the Eternal Boaz. Is there a place you can point to in your life where you made a journey of faith and like Ruth, found a relationship of grace? 

If there was a point when you came to Him, rejoice! If there is not a place in your life where He saved you, turn to Him and find His saving and sufficient grace. The Eternal Boaz still takes Moabites—marred by birth and blemished by sin—and makes them His child in a relationship of grace. I am related to the Eternal Boaz by His grace. Are you?

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Favored by Boaz

by John O’Malley

“And Boaz said unto her, At mealtime come thou hither, and eat of the bread, and dip thy morsel in the vinegar. And she sat beside the reapers: and he reached her parched corn, and she did eat, and was sufficed, and left” (Ruth 2:14). 

 Heaven’s spectators, aware of God’s Messianic plan, would have rejoiced to see Boaz interact with Ruth. It was God who sent every emotional sunrise and sunset into Ruth’s life. God has a way of making the sun to rise over the horizon of a burdened soul and restoring hope. 

 Ruth’s story is one of those times when God displayed the rays of His love in Ruth’s heart. Though the Book of Ruth is thousands of years old, reading how God touched Ruth in her darkest hour still thrills hearts today. 

 Our verse begins, “And Boaz said unto her.” Undoubtedly Ruth’s heart began to beat faster as she saw Boaz was about to speak again. Each time he spoke to her, she sensed an unquestionable passion in his voice. Oh, how he had stirred the embers of her bosom! She knew that he was a man sent from God to her. No longer would she have to fret over the necessities of life.

 Previously, we have seen that Boaz had committed both his heart and his assets to Ruth. Boaz committed himself before God to meet the needs of her home and the needs of her heart. Boaz certainly sensed Ruth’s tender heart as she poured out to him her gratitude and expressions of willingness. Boaz knew this special handmaid would be no ordinary servant. Boaz would look after the supply of all she could need, want, and desire.

 Have you noticed that in all the recorded occasions where Boaz spoke to Ruth, she never grew weary of listening to him? Boaz’s words never became mundane to Ruth. She seemed to treasure every word he spoke. She found it pleasurable to hear from Boaz. Ruth discovered Boaz’s words were meat for her hungry soul. Ruth learned that Boaz’s words became strength for her journey.

 Our Eternal Boaz graciously speaks today through His Word and His Spirit. Have you lost the preciousness of hearing from Boaz?Has your spiritual life become mundane? Have you no joy in Jesus? Determine today to return to the place where hearing from Boaz brings delight to your soul!

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A Handmaiden to Boaz

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’s choice of words indicated her heart’s desire and devotion to Boaz and his cause. Boaz had been so gracious to her that she could hardly comprehend everything he offered and the manner in which he offered it. Boaz’s goodness was not evident in only one statement. In a fountain of statements, Boaz showered her heart and soul with graciousness. 

“Handmaid” was the one word that characterized Ruth’s feelings. She willingly viewed herself as a handmaid to Boaz. The position of a handmaid in the culture of Israel was that of being merely a servant. Ruth did not seek to elevate herself to a position of grandeur, but rather a position of humility. She sought only to be counted as a slave to Boaz.

Ruth saw herself only in the place of a handmaiden, and God elevated her to the role of wife. She saw herself as a slave to Boaz’s cause, and God placed her in the royal crown of His Son Jesus Christ. Ruth had a simple plaque that hung over her heart’s door. It read “Handmaiden to Boaz.” She sought no other position for herself. She only wanted to be a slave to Boaz’s harvest and his heart.

When did you last take a look at the plaque that hangs on the door of your heart? What is the title you have given yourself on that plaque? Does it read that you are a servant to the Eternal Boaz? Does it read, “Slave to the heart and harvest of Boaz”?

I have seen believers hang a list of their credentials on their heart’s door. They read: “Charter Member,” “A Pillar of my Church,” “I am a Sunday School Teacher,” or “I am a Deacon.” Many herald their level of giving on the plaque of their heart’s door. Ruth’s statement should serve as an “ego check” for every child of God. Far too often, we think of ourselves more highly than we should. 

The positions of servants and slaves in our churches are disappearing. Churches have traded servants and slaves for “hired help” and people who need their egos stroked weekly by the pastor. Are you a servant and slave for the harvest of the Eternal Boaz? Are you a servant and slave for the heart of the Eternal Boaz?

We need more servants and slaves than we do anything else in our churches. God does more with people who see themselves as lowly than He does with those who see themselves as great. Ruth started as a handmaiden, and God made her a homemaker in the line of the Messiah. Surrender your credentials today and get back to the splendor of servanthood.

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Ruth’s Honest Reply

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’s reply reveals her inward struggle to grasp Boaz’s offer of grace. She stated to Boaz, “I am not like one of your maidens.” The words were spoken from Ruth’s heart as she considered herself in light of the others in the field who were working for Boaz. Her comments to Boaz were accented by her amazement at his desire to extend favor and exhibit friendliness. 

The last phrase in the verse deals with Ruth’s amazement with Boaz’s offer of fellowship. Ruth knew her chief obstacle from fellowshipping with Boaz came because of her Moabite birth. She looked at the others and saw herself inferior because they were Israelites by birth. Ruth could never change her birthplace. She could not change her background. Ruth could not begin life again to fix her Moabite birth. Ruth’s heart swelled with emotions that could hardly be conveyed with words. 

The story of Boaz and Ruth is a story that began in distant lands, but whose happy ending would take place in the Promised Land. Their meeting was not by chance. They met because our Eternal Boaz brought them together. Ruth was aware that she could not start her life over again to become more acceptable to Boaz. Boaz’s offer of fellowship to Ruth gave her the opportunity, not to start her life over, but to make a new future. 

Boaz, our principal character, desired to fellowship with a girl from Moab. There were many handmaidens he could have chosen to bring into his fellowship. Why would one of the original inhabitants of Ephratah, now called Bethlehem-judah, want to fellowship with Ruth? Boaz could have chosen anyone, and he still chose Ruth above all others. Boaz’s choice left Ruth with recognition of her own inadequacy and an appreciation of his fellowship 

Like Ruth’s beginning, the believer’s life began in a distant land. We were born far from Jesus Christ. Sin separated us from His righteousness. Our Eternal Boaz sought us out and brought us to Himself. There was nothing we could bring to the relationship; we were marred by sin. Even with our marring and mistakes, He still offered us His favor, His friendship, and His fellowship. 

Words fail in each believer’s attempt to describe God’s goodness. He saw us, He loved us, and He forgave us. The truth of God’s offer of forgiveness and His desire to fellowship with us should make our heart rejoice each day. Although our Eternal Boaz knows about our sin’s marring, He still says, “You are forgiven, and it is forgotten forever.”

 Our Eternal Boaz desired you. He moved heaven and earth to fellowship with you. Draw near to Him this day in your prayers and in His Word. Take time to recognize His covering of compassion in your life. Reflect on His goodness and the grace He offered you. Although you are marred by many things, He will always love you!

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Ruth’s Reassurance

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 fondly reviewed the compassionate words of Boaz spoken on the terraced hillside of his harvest fields. His words became planted in her soul. His words were growing a harvest of peace for her formerly burdened heart. 

 Ruth needed to hear Boaz’s message. She knew Boaz could have spoken the words to his servant to give to her, but Boaz spoke to her. Ruth was aware that Boaz could have just glibly spoken to her, but he spoke in friendly tones. 

 Boaz was not too busy to speak to Ruth, although many things may have been on his mind and heart that day. None of them were as important as the friendly words he spoke to Ruth. Boaz’s words comforted Ruth as she pondered his goodness and grace. Boaz’s words gave her the confidence that she was welcome in the field of his harvest and the field of his heart. His words were not simply the words of an employer. Boaz’s words sounded as if he had become caretaker of her heart. Yes, Boaz had taken on a new responsibility with Ruth; he had become a friend of her heart.

 Our attention is drawn to the phrase, “thou hast spoken friendly unto thine handmaid.”Ruth discovered both friendship and fellowship as Boaz spoke. Boaz spoke to her when he could have ignored her. His words embraced her heart and kindled her hope. Boaz could have given the facts to Ruth without any feeling, but he spoke friendly to Ruth. 

 Our Eternal Boaz does no less than what Boaz did for Ruth. Man’s recorded history from the Garden of Eden onward reveals that God has spoken friendly to His children. When the cool of the day arrived in Eden’s garden, God spoke friendly to Adam. When Enoch went on His daily walk with the Lord, certainly God spoke friendly to him. When Abram searched for answers, God spoke friendly to His friend. David found that God spoke friendly to him whether on green pastures, in cold caves, or even at his palace. The friendliest words spoken by God to mankind were spoken in the events surrounding the cross of Calvary. 

 Friendliness should be our distinction as we walk this earthly course. When you speak to those lost in sin, do you speak friendly to them? Do you speak friendly to your fellow servants of the Lord? We have both an earthly example in Boaz and an eternal example in our Eternal Boaz. Are you following the divine example of speaking friendly to sinners and saints?

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Ruth’s Rest

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.

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Ruth’s Response

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). 

 The words seemed to flow naturally. Ruth placed not only her request before Boaz, but also offered her response in a two-word phrase: “my lord.” Ruth knew that Boaz’s offer was generous and gracious. She knew she was special in his eyes. She was fully aware of his plans to protect and provide for her the help that she needed. 

 Ruth’s request to find favor in Boaz’s sight was punctuated by the two words, “my lord.” This response placed her heart on display before Boaz. Ruth’s two words, “my lord,” indicated her pledge to Boaz and her possession of his promise. 

 When she said, “my lord,” she revealed her possession of his commitment to her. Ruth did not ignore his offers of help. She took possession of his outreach, his offers, and his openness. He offered to her the gift of his adoption, and she accepted. Boaz offered Ruth the gift of his acceptance, and she received it. Boaz offered to Ruth his association, and she accepted it. Ruth did not turn away his offers, but rather took possession of them. 

 Ruth not only took possession of his promises, but also made a pledge to him when she said, “my lord.” In one phrase, she surrendered and submitted to the lord of the harvest. She also pledged herself to his calling, commands, and commissioning. Ruth pledged her heart to Boaz’s will. Ruth also pledged her hands to Boaz’s work. In this two-word phrase, Ruth pledged her mind to Boaz’s words. 

 Believer, many today have taken possession of our Eternal Boaz’s promises of help for today and a home forever. We bask in His showers of blessing and possess those blessings steadfastly in our hearts. Yet many who possess the blessings fail to pledge their love and loyalty to Him. 

 Many say, “my,” but never complete Ruth’s phrase and say, “lord.” We enjoy possessing His promises, but never pledge our heart to His will. We never pledge our hands to His work. We never pledge our minds to His Word. May it never be said of us that we possessed His promises, but never pledged our hearts in submission to His service.

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Ruth’s Request

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 knew in her heart that she had not only found a place of bounty, but also a benefactor. She left that morning from Naomi’s place and desired a field to glean and a benefactor that would be gracious. Certainly the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings she had come to trust, had led her to this place of provision and protection. 

 Previously, she could not understand how she had come to find grace in Boaz’s eyes. Boaz made her aware of why she had found grace in his eyes. You may recall, Boaz revealed that he was touched by her compassion, conviction, and conversion.

 Ruth’s response was in the form of a request. She replied, “Let me find favour in thy sight, my lord.” Tenderness and humility were woven into her statement. Ruth had received Boaz’s grace; yet now she was requesting that she find favor in his sight. 

 Initially, the careful reader of God’s Word may wonder why Ruth’s reply to Boaz came in the form of a request. Ruth’s request was not an indication of her failure to grasp the meaning of Boaz’s reply. Ruth did understand the essence of what Boaz said. Ruth’s words were merely an indication of her heart’s desire and her soul’s devotion. 

 Ruth desired in her heart that whenever Boaz’s eyes met hers, she find favor in his sight. She never wanted to fall out of favor with Boaz. Having favor in Boaz’s sight became Ruth’s chief priority. Her request for favor in Boaz’s eyes was not of greed, but rather of graciousness. 

 The prayer of Ruth’s heart declared her wish to find favor in his sight all the time. Ruth’s heart was certainly devoted to the cause of Boaz’s fields. She merely wanted Boaz to be pleased with her forever. Boaz had promised Ruth that she could anticipate the blessings of the Lord in her heart and in this harvest field.

 Ruth’s request, robed in meekness, reveals a wonderful example for believers today. Our hearts should be stirred by Ruth’s simple request. Certainly we have found grace in God’s eyes for our salvation. We know He has redeemed us and given us His protection and promise. 

 Do all of our activities and attitudes meet with His favor? Do all of our labors and our earnestness in accomplishing our tasks meet with favor in His sight? Is our Eternal Boaz pleased with all we do for Him? May every divine glance toward our work in the harvest fields be pleasing to our Eternal Boaz.

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Trusting Him

by John O’Malley

“And Boaz answered and said unto her…under whose wings thou art come to trust” (Ruth 2:11-12). 

 Boaz stood in his fields surveying all the workers and the work that was being done. Ruth stood before Boaz as a younger woman who had proven herself in the fields among his workers and in the faith among his fellow worshippers. 

 Boaz’s comment on God’s certain recompensing and reward for Ruth settled in her heart. The conclusion of Boaz’s comments definitely stirs the intellect and offers inspiration to the reader of the Word of God. Boaz’s words highlight God’s relationship with Ruth and Ruth’s relationship to God. 

 Ruth’s relationship with God allowed a level of reflection she could not have previously attained. She was able to reflect spiritually upon the graciousness and goodness of God in her life to this point. Ruth had not enjoyed a life of ease. She had seen her share of trouble and trials, but none of those elements were enough to unsettle her faith. Ruth’s life revealed a contentment that the world could not rival. 

 Boaz saw this quality of faith in Ruth. He mentioned how he took notice that she trusted God and had come under His wings. This phrase reveals the determination of Ruth’s faith, the development of Ruth’s faith, and the decision of Ruth’s faith. 

 Ruth’s determination in her walk with the Lord was apparent when Boaz said, “under whose wings.” Ruth determined that she had lived out from under His wings too long. She determined upon her confession of faith that she would live under His wings. Ruth wanted God’s Word to reveal God’s way so she could do God’s work. She would be under God’s wings and not her own. While under God’s wings, she would find protection and provision. Under God’s wings, she would find shelter and shade. Under God’s wings, she would find contentment and confidence. 

 Ruth’s decision is seen in the two words, “whose wings.” Ruth made the decision in her heart and chose God’s wings for direction and protection. Ruth would not seek the wings of any other. Ruth would not return to Moab and seek the wings of idols. Ruth’s decision was clear in her heart and then became clear to the hearts of those around her. 

 Ruth’s development in the faith is evident from Boaz’s words as he said, “thou art come to trust.” Ruth had come to trust the Lord God of Israel. She had come to trust Him by burial grounds and border crossings. She had come to trust Him in barley fields and Bethlehem-judah. She had come to trust Him in matters of the harvest and matters of the heart. Ruth trusted God; she would not fear the outlook, the outcome, and the outside elements that would seek to dissuade her. Ruth trusted God with the details, direction, and the discomforts of life.

 Under whose wings have we come to trust? Have we made the determination Ruth did? Have we made the decision Ruth made? Have we developed in the faith to trust only Him?

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Watch for His Wings

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?

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Under His Wings

by John O’Malley

“And Boaz answered and said unto her…under whose wings thou art come to trust” (Ruth 2:11-12). 

 Boaz’s words of comfort ushered Ruth to a level of serenity she had not known. Boaz spoke of a divine recompensing, and Ruth was thankful. Boaz told of a divine reward, and Ruth was thrilled. Boaz now speaks of a divine relationship, and Ruth is thoughtful. 

 Two things were evident to Boaz: God had taken Ruth under His wings, and Ruth had come to trust God’s power. As an eagle guides and guards her young, God had guided Ruth through the deepest valleys of her heart. God had led her through the arid deserts of her soul. God had given her the oversight and overshadowing she needed to get to the handfuls of purpose He had lain in store. God had been Ruth’s faithful Guide and fatherly Guardian. Boaz recognized how Ruth had grown in her faith relationship.

 The conclusion of Boaz’s trilogy of comfort revealed that he recognized God’s hand guiding Ruth’s heart. Boaz and Ruth had been guided to the intersection of their divine destiny. It was here that Ruth would meet God’s man for the rest of her life and Boaz would find a wife. Mahlon’s death had not severed Ruth’s ability to love again. Loneliness would not be Boaz’s life mate. God brought these two together for a divine purpose.

 Certainly, images splashed across the screen of Ruth’s mind—the cinema of remembrance playing the story of her life—with God’s goodness playing the lead role. First, she saw the day when the family of Elimelech moved to town. Looking back, she saw the shadow of God’s wings of provision. Looking back to the grave of her husband, just overhead, the shadow of God’s wings overshadowed her and she knew she was spared from the heat of that fiery trial. Leaving Moab and trekking sixty-seven miles to Bethlehem-judah, she knew it was the wings of God that were protected her. Only that morning, as she left seeking provision for an unknown tomorrow, she recalled it was that same familiar shadow of His wings that prompted her to this field belonging to Boaz. 

 Looking back over the course of her life and especially the last ten years, Ruth saw clearly God’s wings of protection, power, presence, and provision. It was the wings of God that prompted her to encounter the best people, places, and promises. Boaz’s words spoke peace to her heart as she saw the relationship between the wings of God and the supply of her emotional and everyday needs.

 It is time for us to look back at the milestones of our lives. At each stop, we must see the wings of God that have overshadowed us along life’s way.Salvation is the first place we should look. It is here that the shadow of God’s wings brought us to the place of conviction, confession, and conversion. From that point in our lives until now, let us reminisce with our Eternal Boaz and thank Him for the shadow of His wings.

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Rewarded by Boaz

by John O’Malley

“And Boaz answered and said unto her…a full reward be given thee of the Lord God of Israel” (Ruth 2:11-12). 

 Ruth listened intently as Boaz continued to deliver God’s message to her. Boaz commented on Ruth’s compassion for Naomi. He spoke of her conversion to Jehovah. He referred to her conviction as she chose to separate from Moab. 

 In our previous reading, Boaz told Ruth that the Lord would recompense her for her work. Surely, Ruth became overwhelmed that God would take notice of her kindness. If that were not enough, she was blessed richly because Boaz said God would recompense her for these labors of love to Naomi. Naomi had been so kind to her. Naomi had taken Ruth in as a daughter. Boaz’s statements of God’s awareness, attention, and awards were more than Ruth could assimilate. 

 Ruth held her breath as she heard Boaz continue to speak. What Boaz would tell Ruth would exceed all she, a Moabite convert, could ever ask or think. Boaz told her that the Lord God of Israel would give “a full reward” to her. Boaz had filled her heart to overflowing with his words of God’s grace and goodness.

 Ruth heard it with her own ears. She was to be rewarded with “a full reward” by God. Ruth was aware that a reward given to someone is restricted to the bounty of the benefactor. When Ruth heard who the Benefactor was, she thrilled within. Ruth reflected on the limitlessness of God’s bounty, which was now promised to her. 

 “A full reward” for Ruth meant rewards that were “out of this world!” A full reward for Ruth presented blessings beyond compare. Her reward was declared to be full and not partial. Her heart seemingly could not handle anymore. 

 The ending phrase that Boaz used echoed in the chambers of her heart. It left her with a fearful admiration of God. Boaz stated that “the Lord God of Israel” would be carrying out this promise. The very phrase used just over one hundred times in Scripture sent a clear message to its hearers each time it was used. This one phrase proclaimed the authority, ability, and association of God. It resonated in her heart, and it left her in awe of God’s grace. Her whole life was changed in an instant as she encountered the grace of God. 

 Our Eternal Boazoffers full rewards to His children today. He has not exhausted His supply of goodness nor grace.Your labors here on this earth are noticed and appreciated by God. He recompenses us in this life for sacrifices made for Him. Rest assured; He will reward us in a day yet to come when we stand before His Bema Seat. May our reward be full! 

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Recompensed by Boaz

by John O’Malley

“And Boaz answered and said unto her…The Lord recompense thy work” (Ruth 2:11-12). 

 Although widowed from Mahlon, Ruth's heart was warmed by Boaz's attentiveness. Boaz was not an ordinary man like the men she might have met in Moab. Boaz was unique because God had hand-selected him to fulfill His purpose. 

 Boaz’s words, to Ruth’s ears, were more melodious than an orchestra and clearer than the robin’s chirps before the arrival of spring. Boaz’s words penetrated Ruth’s soul as she listened to his caring message and perceived his compassionate manner. Boaz’s words revealed his discernment of the Lord’s will and Word.

 Boaz’s words indicated God’s awareness of, and attention to, Ruth’s work. Boaz spoke with confidence. He knew Ruth’s service to Naomi had garnered God’s favor. Boaz related to Ruth the recompense God offers to those who sacrifice for Him. Boaz knew that God not only had the ability to compensate for any deed, sacrifice, or effort made for His cause; but that He would recompense this widow from Moab.

 Ruth recognized that Boaz spoke of a recompensing far beyond these fields of grain. Boaz’s words transported the two of them into the realm of the Eternal Boaz. God Himself, the Guardian of Israel and Protector of the line of Christ, saw Ruth’s heart as she cared for Naomi. Ruth had sacrificially given herself to Naomi’s cause both in Moab and now in Bethlehem-judah. Ruth’s work had more consequence than only the emotional relief it provided Naomi. Ruth was to be recompensed by our Eternal Boaz.

 Dear laborer for God, your labors for Him on this sod have not escaped His awareness. Our Eternal Boaz has the ability to compensate for any deed, sacrifice, or effort made for Him. Our Eternal Boaz does recompense His workers. His recompensing occurs in this field on earth, and in heaven, when we finish our labors for Him. Have you grown weary in your well doing? God is aware of your labors.He pays attention to what you have done for His cause. He exceeds our imagination of recompensing. Keep your mind on your laboring, and He will take care of your recompensing.

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Lessons in Conversion

by John O’Malley

“And Boaz answered and said unto her…and art come unto a people which thou knewest not heretofore” (Ruth 2:11). 

 The tenderness of Boaz’s conversation moved Ruth’s heart. She enquired why Boaz sought her out and loved her so much. He spoke compassionately of how his heart had been touched with her move from Moab to Bethlehem-judah. Boaz had been affected by her decision to identify with the people of God. Boaz saw Ruth and cared deeply for her pitiful condition. Boaz saw Ruth’s compassion for Naomi, Ruth’s conviction to leave her people, and Ruth’s conversion to his God. Boaz responded to Ruth with a measure of grace sufficient to her need.

 Ruth knew well the Moabite’s ways of family, friendships, and faith. The Moabites were a people scarred by the sin of Lot’s daughters. Lot’s daughters had gone in unto Lot fearing they would never marry and bear children to carry on the family name. (Lot’s family had lived in Sodom so long that an incestuous rationale made complete sense to them.) The fruit of Lot’s union with his daughters was the Moabites and the Ammonites. Ruth belonged by birth to a people who were among the antagonists of the Israelites. Yet  her arrival to Boaz’s field was met with grace and goodness.

 Although the Moabites shared the Hebrew’s language, their friendships were with the Ammonites. These two groups were an anathema to God’s people. Yet when Ruth arrived Boaz, God’s ambassador to Bethlehem-judah, met her with grace and goodness.

 The Moabites and Ammonites had their faith founded in the gods of Chemosh, Molech, and Baal. Ruth’s people placed their faith in gods whom they could only appease by human sacrifice and vain rituals. Yet her arrival to Boaz’s field was met with grace and goodness.

 Perhaps now you see why Ruth was so puzzled at the measure of grace poured into the empty vessel of her heart. She, who had only known the vile ways of Moab’s people and gods, now stood in Israel, a convert to the God of Israel. Ruth went to Bethlehem-judah not seeking asylum, but rather adoption. She was scarred by her past and her losses. She could not even bring her own merit to the town of Bethlehem-judah or to the fields of Boaz. Ruth came to Israel with only her conversion to Israel’s God settled in her heart. 

 Remember this today: You and I once belonged to a people who were estranged from God. We served with fervor the god of this world, Satan. We were friends with everyone that stood in opposition to God. Yet in our scarred and tainted state,while we were yet sinners, God saw us and had compassion upon us.

 Our Eternal Boaz pours out measures of His grace sufficient to our every need. May we never grow accustomed to His grace and goodness, as some in our faith have done. Let us determine to praise and proclaim the goodness of His grace.

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Lessons in Conviction

by John O’Malley

“And Boaz answered and said unto her…and how thou hast left thy father and thy mother, and the land of thy nativity” (Ruth 2:11). 

 Boaz’s heart had been drawn to Ruth’s cause. This precious Gentile gem from Moab’s plains had made quite an impression on him. Boaz first took note of Ruth’s compassion for his relative, and her mother-in-law, Naomi. Boaz then indicated to Ruth that his graciousness to her came also because of her heart’s conviction. Boaz knew that Ruth was a woman who would wholly follow what she believed in her heart was right, no matter what ties needed to be severed. 

 It was unusual to find people who demonstrated their convictions considering the days in which Boaz and Ruth lived. They lived in the days when the judges ruled. Those were days when “every man did that which was right in his own eyes” (Judges 21:25). When people do what they think is right and live in this selfish way, they indicate that they have a lack of righteous conviction. 

 Boaz stated, “Thou hast left thy father and thy mother, and the land of thy nativity.” Ruth’s behavior revealed her heart’s conviction when she stood on Moab’s soil and determined to leave. Boaz knew when Ruth left both her family and the familiar to come to the foreign, she showed that she was a woman who possessed conviction. Ruth’s behavior indicated a simple definition of the word conviction. Ruth believed in righteous living so strongly that it altered her actions, her associations, and her attitude. 

 Ruth’s convictions altered her actions. She left Moab for Bethlehem-judah. She did not remain in Moab with righteous convictions. She did not attempt to change Moab from the inside and not “rock the boat.” Ruth left Moab when her convictions came. 

 Ruth’s convictions altered her associations. She left her family and the familiar for the unknown and unfamiliar. She did not allow her convictions to be thwarted because of relationships. She simply left everyone behind when she came to her convictions.

 Ruth’s convictions also altered her attitude. No longer would she be among those who lived by the rules of pride and selfishness. She began to think differently as she left her hometown’s ways of living for self. Ruth could not maintain her old attitude when she came to new convictions. Ruth’s convictions changed her way of thinking.

 We live in a day when people of righteous conviction are in the minority. People are needed today who will alter their actions, their associations, and their attitudes for the cause of righteousness.People with righteous convictions do not stay in Moab; they seek to get out of Moab. Christians with righteous convictions sever the ties that would deter them. Believers with righteous convictions have a Christ-like disposition as they stand for truth. Godly people with righteous convictions alter their actions, associations, and attitudes. 

 Are you a believer with righteous convictions?

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A Lesson in Compassion

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” (Ruth 2:11). 

 Boaz’s response to Ruth indicated that he was deeply affected. He commended Ruth for her compassion toward Naomi. He used terms of admiration when speaking of her heartfelt conviction to depart from Moab. He concluded with speaking of her conversion to the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

 Consider with me Boaz’s commendation of Ruth for her compassion expressed to Naomi. Ruth, a young bride in Moab, married outside of her people and into the Israelite family of Elimelech. Much had happened since she and her husband Mahlon said, “I do.” She first lost her father-in-law, and then in an unexplained situation, both her husband and brother-in-law died. Ruth was left with Naomi and her sister-in-law Orpah. The three widows had only their memories and each other. 

 Ruth shared Naomi’s pain in a different way than Orpah had. The three left Moab, but only two made the journey to Bethlehem-judah. Ruth determined that there would be nothing that would separate her from Naomi. She felt a sense of responsibility in caring for her husband’s mother since Mahlon was Naomi’s firstborn.

 Ruth chose a role that was not dictated by laws of country, culture, or creed. She accepted this role because of the laws of compassion. Compassion’s rules are not written, but they are known. The rules of compassion elicit a response that is not commanded but is compelling.

 Ruth heard compassion’s call from within her bosom and responded. She spoke from her heart to Naomi’s heart. Her words told the story that affected Boaz. 

 “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). 

 Boaz was aware of the compassion of Ruth the Moabite to Naomi the Israelite. He knew Ruth’s compassion was more than simply a daughter-in-law’s caring for a mother-in-law. Boaz recognized that within the heart of Ruth was a well of compassion. Ruth set an example for all of Israel. Boaz determined to reward Ruth’s compassion with compassion in the pattern of Jehovah-jireh. 

 Ruth’s compassion must serve as a lesson to our hearts. Often, we use a filter of pride to determine how and when we exhibit compassion. Our self-determined filters of pride generally will exclude the unlovely, unfamiliar, and untoward. Yet Ruth did not use any of these filters. She merely indicated, “My heart is drawn to your heart.”

 When compassion like Ruth’s is displayed in our lives, it too captures the attention of our Eternal Boaz. Compassion declares, defines, and determines our “sonship” as seen in John 13:35. Have you the compassion of Ruth? If yes, display it; if not, determine to obtain it today!

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Shown Fully

by John O’Malley

“And Boaz answered and said unto her, It hath fully been shewed me” (Ruth 2:11). 

 Boaz stood before a prostrate Ruth. Her words of amazement brought delight to his heart. He explained in part, about how he came to this decision to care for her. The preamble to his explanation, “It hath fully been shewed me” is worthy of notice.

 The servant set over the reapers played a vital role in Boaz’s comprehension of Ruth’s situation. He had explained to Boaz about Ruth’s arrival in the field. The servant set over the reapers spoke of her request to glean and her knowledge of the laws of Jehovah. His servant related much about Ruth to Boaz. Yet Boaz stated that it had been fully shown to him about Ruth’s condition, conversion, conduct, and communication. Boaz knew far more about Ruth than what the servant had said. Boaz, a resident of Bethlehem-judah, would have heard about Naomi’s arrival and her Gentile convert from Moab.

 The diligent reader of the inspired text would recall the whole town of Bethlehem-judah was aware of Naomi’s return. The townspeople enquired not only of Naomi’s return, but also of Naomi’s retrieval of a Moabite. The supper tables of Bethlehem-judah were probably filled with conversations of the testimony of Ruth. The city gate also had its share of information about Ruth, as the people there were the first to notice Naomi’s return. 

 We must not easily abandon the message in Boaz’s statement. God’s involvement with Boaz’s knowledge must not be overlooked. Man could only know in part of Ruth’s coming, her conviction, her conversion, and her conversation. Yet Boaz said, “It hath fully been shewed me.” God saw to it that Boaz’s heart, spirit, and soul were prepared for this special moment in the line of Christ. 

 There is another special moment in God’s eternal plan. It too has been shown fully to us in His Word. God’s Word is the primary method to “fully show” people today. The Word of God fully shows the truth of man’s rebellion, ruin, and rejection. The Bible fully shows God’s redemption, restoration, and return for men converted by grace through faith. Do you need to understand what God is doing around your heart and home? Remember, “it hath fully been shewed” you in the Word of God.

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Boaz Listens to Me

by John O’Malley

“And Boaz answered and said unto her” (Ruth 2:11). 

 Boaz listened to Ruth with delight. She was so taken with his grace that he could not help but smile. He listened to her enquiries of his grace and the insistence of her great hindrances. Boaz took the time to listen with patience to all of Ruth’s concerns. Boaz had the answers already prepared for Ruth’s questions. Scripture indicates that it had been shown fully to him, yet he still listened.

 Boaz did not quickly silence Ruth from speaking. He did not ignore Ruth’s concerns about her past, her problems, and her poverty. He listened to her as a father would to his own daughter. It is apparent that Boaz listened attentively and lovingly answered Ruth’s questions.

 Boaz was not without an answer to Ruth’s questions. Ruth was burdened about her heritage, and Boaz listened attentively and offered a loving answer. Ruth felt the weight of her need to provide for Naomi and herself, and Boaz listened attentively and offered a loving answer. Ruth was keenly aware of her vulnerability as a widow, and Boaz listened attentively and offered a loving answer. 

 It is important to recognize that Boaz listened to Ruth before he answered her. Boaz had his answers ready before she questioned him. Boaz treated Ruth in a tender and special way. Ruth knew from Boaz’s response that she was loved. 

 Every believer should be mindful that we are treated in a tender and special way. This treatment is to an even greater degree than Ruth received from Boaz. Our Eternal Boaz listens attentively and offers loving answers for all of our concerns. Have you noticed in your prayer time how attentively He listens to us? God attentively listens to our prayers whether we are driving down the road or drifting off to sleep. 

 God not only attentively listens to our needs, He also offers to us His loving answers. Our Eternal Boaz’s loving answers are found in His Word. Our Eternal Boaz magnifies the simplicity of Boaz’s actions toward Ruth to a greater extent. Although our Eternal Boaz already has given His answer in His Word, He always attentively listens before He lovingly answers. 

 What a friend we have in Jesus, 
All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry 
Everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit, 
O what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry 
Everything to God in prayer!

--Joseph Scriven

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