Sitting at the Gate of Hope

by John O’Malley

“Then went Boaz up to the gate, and sat him down there: and, behold, the kinsman of whom Boaz spake came by; unto whom he said, Ho, such a one! turn aside, sit down here. And he turned aside, and sat down” (Ruth 4:1).

The morning that brought the dawn of hope for Ruth brought also a day of commitment for Boaz. Boaz rose early; it would be hard to believe he went back to sleep after Ruth left the threshing floor. He dressed himself and began the short journey into the city to meet with a kinsman nearer than himself. The thoughts that went through his mind are unknown. However, having second thoughts or hesitancy would not be amongst them, as the text indicates he went to the city and sat in the gate. 

From the days of Moses and the giving of the law in Deuteronomy, God made provision for Boaz and Ruth’s legal matters. Any decision with legal significance was held in the gate of a city. Here, the elders and city officers would convene and render just decisions for the people. Boaz waited in this gate. This became a gate of hope for the redemption of the widow and, ultimately, the redemption of the world.

Boaz arrived at the city gate and sat down to wait. Boaz’s time of waiting at the city’s gate is unknown. Naomi’s statement to Ruth that Boaz would handle it today, coupled with Boaz’s decision to leave promptly for the gate of the city, helps us to know that he was willing and able to be the kinsman-redeemer for Ruth.  

Any who have sat by hope’s gate know how slowly time passes. Ruth was home, sitting and waiting for news of redemption. Boaz was in the gate of the city, waiting to offer himself as a redeemer. Naomi sat, waiting for hope to fully dawn in her heart as her husband’s nearer relative would decide the fate of their land and the heritage of her husband’s name. The world yet to come, including our own generation, waited for the answer that day as the redemption of all mankind sat just outside hope’s gate.

Our Eternal Boaz sat in Heaven’s gate, our gate of hope, waiting for the time of our redemption to come. Our hope arrived in the fullness of time as the Consolation of Israel was virgin born and presented in a temple in Jerusalem. Jesus’ ascension to heaven now places Him as sitting at the right hand of the Father, Who is our gate of hope, awaiting the final redemption of our bodies to be with Him. 

Let us not despair as we wait for the final redemption. Many men do not know of the redemption of the soul. They sit by a gate called Hopelessness without knowledge of Jesus, our Kinsman-Redeemer. In the next twenty-four hours, will you tell someone at the gate of hopelessness of heaven, hope, and our Goel?

Think about it...

Buy Reflections from Ruth: The Pain from Leaving (Volume 1)

Rest After Redemption

by John O’Malley

“Then said she, Sit still, my daughter, until thou know how the matter will fall: for the man will not be in rest, until he have finished the thing this day” (Ruth 3:18). 

Naomi’s words were sure and certain. There would be no way that Boaz could rest until the work of being a redeemer was done. This was not a day for procrastination. This was not a moment when other things could get in the way of Boaz. He was a man on a mission, and Naomi knew it. 

How did Naomi know this? Was it the honorable way Boaz treated Ruth at the threshing floor? Could it have been the barley he sent by way of Ruth? Could Ruth have said something unrecorded in Scripture that settled in Naomi’s mind that Boaz would not be able to rest until the matter was done? Perhaps something in Boaz’s behavior reminded Naomi of Elimelech, and she knew it would be handled without fail.

Boaz knew God’s law. As kinsman-redeemer, he would have to be near of kin, to be able and willing to redeem, and to complete it. Boaz could have decided to redeem the land of Elimelech, but not redeem by marrying the lady left in Elimelech’s family. However, because he loved her, he became the complete kinsman-redeemer. There would be no rest in his heart until Ruth’s redemption was done. 

Boaz would have no other day in his life like this one. It would require all of his character and resources to make this offering of redemption. Because of love, he would not rest until it was done today.  

It is certain Ruth’s heart could hardly process it all. Because of Boaz, the widowed Moabite would be able to give a final gift to her deceased husband. This gift was the restored honor and hope for his family’s name to continue. God’s law made the kinsman-redeemer provision for His people. Although she was Moabite by birth, she was Israelite by faith. Ruth knew that the God of Israel was to be praised. 

Naomi’s confidence in Boaz was not misplaced. He would see to it that the redemption process would be handled today. She knew that, when the sun set that day, their redemption would be secured.  

One day, about two thousand years ago, when all hope for mankind was lost, Jesus Christ, our Eternal Boaz, went to the cross of Calvary and became our Kinsman-Redeemer. He was Kinsman because He was born of a virgin, yet He was the Son of Man. He was Redeemer because only He could fulfill the law and satisfy God's demand for righteousness with His own righteousness. As Naomi said the earthly Boaz would take care of it in a day, so our Eternal Boaz, when that day ended, cried out in victory, “It is finished.” It was only after the earthly Boaz and the Eternal Boaz finished the work that they could rest. 

There would be no rest for Boaz until the work was done in Ruth’s life. When the Son finished His work here, we see Him sitting at the throne of His Father. First came our redemption, and then came His rest. “In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace” (Ephesians 1:7).

Buy Reflections from Ruth: The Pain from Leaving (Volume 1)

Grace and New Beginnings

by John O’Malley

“Then said she, Sit still, my daughter, until thou know how the matter will fall: for the man will not be in rest, until he have finished the thing this day” (Ruth 3:18). 

Once Naomi and Ruth arrived in Bethlehem-judah, no less than eight times is Ruth called “my daughter.” Five of those times, the phrase was spoken by Naomi. Each time marked a moment of grace and indicated their new beginning. Those who have studied the patterns of numbers used in the Bible and their significance teach that eight is the number of new beginnings and five is the number of grace. Truly, Ruth and Naomi’s story is marked with grace and new beginnings.  

When Ruth left their house to find grace in the eyes of unknown harvest field hands, she heard Naomi say, “Go, my daughter.” When Ruth returned with the good news of Boaz being that field owner who would not only let her glean once, but asked her to return to no other field but his, Naomi said, “It is good, my daughter.” The third moment Ruth heard this phrase of grace and new beginnings was when Naomi determined that she would seek rest for Ruth in the kinship of Boaz. 

The fourth instance Naomi spoke this precious phrase came when she wondered as Ruth came into the house at dawn. Ruth came in with barley in her hand and Boaz in her heart. Naomi saw all this and questioned whether she came in solely as “my daughter” or as the betrothed of Boaz. The last recorded occasion when Naomi used this phrase is reserved for a moment of counsel in grace and new beginnings. She told Ruth, “Sit still, my daughter,” and let Boaz work things out. From these occasions, the child of God learns that the fabric of new beginnings is always hemmed with the fringes of His grace.

There was something special about Ruth. Her testimony of virtue endeared her to the hearts of Mahlon, Naomi, the townspeople, and Boaz. Nowhere else in the Bible is one person referred to as “my daughter” more than Ruth. She had a virtue that displayed her true heart. She tended to draw out the best in people as they sought the best for her. 

Though it is small, the phrase “my daughter” brings an opportunity for the child of God to realize that every new beginning in life is brought about by His grace. The slave owner John Newton certainly learned Ruth’s lesson of grace and new beginnings. His poetic testimony in the song we know as “Amazing Grace” phrases Naomi’s lesson for Ruth:

Amazing grace! How sweet the sound,

That saved a wretch like me!

I once was lost, but now am found,

Was blind, but now I see.

'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,

And grace my fears relieved;

How precious did that grace appear,

The hour I first believed!

Through many dangers, toils and snares,

I have already come;

'Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far,

And grace will lead me Home.

The Lord has promised good to me,

His Word my hope secures;

He will my shield and portion be,

As long as life endures.

Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,

And mortal life shall cease;

I shall possess, within the veil,

A life of joy and peace.

The earth shall soon dissolve like snow,

The sun forbear to shine;

But God, who called me here below,

Will be forever mine .

-John Newton

May the phrase “my daughter,” bring you reminders of our Eternal Boaz’s gift of grace and new beginnings.

Buy Reflections from Ruth: The Pain from Leaving (Volume 1)

Be Still and Know

by John O’Malley

“Then said she, Sit still, my daughter, until thou know how the matter will fall: for the man will not be in rest, until he have finished the thing this day” (Ruth 3:18).

With Boaz’s gesture of kindness in sending the barley, Naomi’s response indicates what had changed in her life since the day she left Moab. Gone are the days of a broken heart as she buried both husband and children. The word “Mara—bitter” has disappeared from her speech. No more accusations are heard of how the hand of the Almighty was against her. Nor do we hear how the Lord had made her empty at all.  

Naomi’s testimony has changed slowly. The pictures of these changes are throughout this Book as we are given snapshots of her spiritual development. Her words, “Sit still, my daughter, until thou know how the matter will fall,”reveal these changes.  

She had been through enough to know that the hand of the Almighty had not made her bitter; He had made her better (1:20). She now could see that He had exchanged her emptiness for fullness (1:21). Furthermore, she now declared that His testimony did not oppose her, but rather opened her eyes (1:21). Now, having been through the harvest with Boaz and Ruth, Naomi could say, “He did not afflict me; He affected me for good” (1:21). 

When Ruth came home after gleaning with Boaz (2:20), we see Naomi’s spiritual progress yet again. Naomi made it clear that Jehovah was being kind to them; He was not trying to kill them. Naomi was changing from a woman of pity to a woman of praise.  

Now, at the end of the third chapter, we see yet another change in her spiritual development. This change is one that indicates she learned that it is better to wait for God to move than it is to move things yourself as she and Elimelech had done. Naomi had been through enough at this point to know God was in control. She knew enough to counsel Ruth, “It is better to wait on Boaz than to work things out for yourself.” As it should be with every believer, Naomi grew enough to put her confidence in Him instead of complaining about Him. 

Child of God, it is always better to wait on our Eternal Boaz to arrange our lives. Any attempt to arrange your life’s order will only bring frustration. Today, look back at all He has done for you. Has He not brought you through enough just to trust Him today? Then listen to Naomi’s advice that comes from experience: “Sit still, my daughter, until thou know how the matter will fall.”

Buy Reflections from Ruth: The Pain from Leaving (Volume 1)

Not Empty in Heart or Hands

by John O’Malley

“And she said, These six measures of barley gave he me; for he said to me, Go not empty unto thy mother in law” (Ruth 3:17).

Ruth’s words gushed forth as she, with great detail, shared with Naomi the goodness of Boaz to her. The only detail we are given in the accounting of the past few hours is that Boaz instructed her not to go back empty to Naomi’s house. The Holy Spirit gave us just what we needed to know in the text. 

The absence of every other detail makes this, her one statement, significant: “These six measures of barley gave he me; for he said to me, Go not empty unto thy mother in law.” Boaz wanted Naomi and Ruth to have everything they needed during the waiting period. Though he was going to be gone just throughout the day, he did not want to leave them without his provision. 

Boaz’s concern for their sustenance makes it easy to see the honor he held for Ruth and Naomi. Naomi was the only real guardian Ruth had in Bethlehem-judah. Boaz wanted Naomi to know that his intentions were pure and that he remembered Elimelech. His words make us realize that traveling back with just the testimony of the day was not enough; Ruth must not go empty-handed. 

Boaz gave her exactly what he felt would send the message to Naomi that redemption was on the way. Much like the child of God who is waiting the return of our Eternal Boaz, we have been left with full hands and hearts until His return to catch us away. Which begs the question, why is it that we act so empty in both hands and heart? Our Eternal Boaz has seen fit to bless us abundantly with His promise of redemption in our hearts and His provision of barley in our hands. 

Boaz was concerned that Ruth's hands not be empty, so he blessed her. Our Eternal Boaz is concerned the same way for us. We are awaiting His return; He has given us sufficient provision to last until He comes back. The testimony of our lives sends a message to those around us about our Eternal Boaz. What are people hearing about the Eternal Boaz by the way you walk before them? Empty walking and living is a disgrace to our Eternal Boaz.

Buy Reflections from Ruth: The Pain from Leaving (Volume 1)

My Daughter—His Darling

by John O’Malley

“And when she came to her mother in law, she said, Who art thou, my daughter? And she told her all that the man had done to her” (Ruth 3:16). 

No matter how you visualize it, Ruth’s arrival must have been quite a sight. Considering she had left adorned from within and without for Boaz, she now came back with her veil laden with barley threshed by him. Here, this younger lady, carrying a load of grain and wearing her finest clothing, arrived at Naomi’s door. Ruth would have had some difficulty making a quiet entrance as dawn broke across the horizon on what was to be an exciting day. 

She had so much to tell Naomi. Scripture is silent on the manner of Ruth’s greeting; nonetheless, her presence was detected in the house. Naomi called out to her, “Who art thou, my daughter?” Naomi’s question was not to figure out whoshe was, but rather whose she was. She wanted to determine whether or not Ruth was betrothed to Boaz. 

Had Boaz agreed to be the goel for the family of Elimelech? Would the stain of past failures be erased by the provision of Jehovah’s laws? Would there be a wedding that would make the three funerals they had faced in recent days be forgotten? Naomi’s question sought to learn Ruth’s status: “You were the darling in his harvest; but, dear Ruth, are you the darling of his heart?”

Ruth’s words are kept from us in this verse. We are told, “She told her all that the man had done to her.” Certainly, the words she used told every important detail about the evening when he made the commitment of his heart to her. Her words must have sent the message to Naomi’s heart that God was delivering bread again in Bethlehem-judah. As Ruth revealed every detail, Naomi knew it was the hand of God that had done this work. Nothing was too hard for Naomi’s God! He, the Forgiver of all mistakes, the Healer of all hurts, and the Lord of all harvests, had stepped into her life and would restore her husband’s name and redeem them in their current state. 

Ruth knew the joy of acceptance and shared the testimony of being the darling of his heart with Naomi. For the believer, there was a day in our lives when the Lord of Glory interrupted our lives and gave us a moment when He made His love known to us and made us the darling of His heart. Paul wrote it this way: “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). Do you have a testimony that declares that you are the darling of His heart?

“And when she came to her mother in law, she said, Who art thou, my daughter? And she told her all that the man had done to her” (Ruth 3:16). 

Buy Reflections from Ruth: The Pain from Leaving (Volume 1)

The Earnest Until His Return

by John O’Malley

“Also he said, Bring the veil that thou hast upon thee, and hold it. And when she held it, he measured six measures of barley, and laid it on her: and she went into the city” (Ruth 3:15).

Ruth’s heart was certainly lighter on this trip into Bethlehem-judah than it was when she was on her first trip to Bethlehem-judah with Naomi. Grief and heartache had marked each footprint in the sand as they journeyed back to the land where God gave bread to His people again. However, the footprints on the path this day were marked with hope and expectation. 

Gone are the days of wondering how they would survive. You remember, Ruth met Boaz by divine appointment as she sought a poor person’s opportunity to glean in the fields to find daily sustenance. Boaz offered her a place to glean in his harvest, and she stayed through both wheat and barley harvest. She gleaned more than his harvest, for here she gleaned his heart.

Now, standing in the threshing floor at the dawn of a new day, Boaz sends Ruth home to Naomi with a token of his promise to seek her redemption. The gift was more than just provision for mealtime; the gift revealed the very devotion in his heart for Ruth. Though they would have to be apart for some time, he felt a gift to her would be a comfort and a reminder of his promise to her. 

In an identical way, Jesus left the gift of His Holy Spirit for those who are His children. Jesus told His disciples that the Holy Spirit would abide with us until He returned for us. As the grain from Boaz to Ruth was an earnest payment until his return with news of their wedding celebration, so the Holy Spirit is to believers. 

Paul wrote to the Ephesians in Ephesians 1:14, “Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession.” We are Christ’s purchased possession. We have our redemption in our Eternal Boaz. The Holy Spirit is with us until the return of our Boaz. When He returns, it is for our wedding: the union of the church and her Goel, Jesus Christ. 

If Ruth doubted for one moment that day about anything Boaz had said, all she had to do was remember his words and look at the earnest gift that he had sent of eighty-eight pounds of barley. When believers today struggle with doubts and dismay about His return, all we must do is review His Word to us. His Word reveals the earnest we have been given until our final redemption. Do you have fears that overwhelm? Consider the earnest of our redemption. He is our Comforter and will remain with us until our redemption.

Buy Reflections from Ruth: The Pain from Leaving (Volume 1)

Heavy Burden—Light Load

by John O’Malley

“Also he said, Bring the veil that thou hast upon thee, and hold it. And when she held it, he measured six measures of barley, and laid it on her: and she went into the city” (Ruth 3:15).

Ruth left the threshing floor and headed toward the city. Just a few hours before, she had made her way, carrying her heart of hope. She came to the threshing floor to present herself to the one whom her heart was toward. She came seeking a kinsman-redeemer and now left with his promise of arranging things today.

It is amazing how promising a sunrise looks when hope fills your heart. Boaz, the kinsman of her hope and the keeper of her heart, made a commitment that on this day he would meet her need. Ruth’s first steps as she bid goodbye to Boaz must have been hard, as her heart was tethered to Boaz; yet she had to go to wait for him at home. Boaz saw to it that she had a visible symbol of his promise with her. He traveled with her in two ways. Ruth carried his presence in her heart, and she carried his provision in her veil. 

Boaz instructed her to go home to Naomi, and he would come again to get her. Ruth left with the promise of his return and provision until the final redemption, and that was enough for her to wait. Boaz measured six measures of barley—approximately eighty-eight pounds of barley—for her to carry to Naomi. The barley was not the price for a bride, nor a payment to curry favor; it was because he cared for her and desired to share his best. 

The weight was heavy, but the load was light. She could carry it; Boaz laid it on her, and she was able to bring it home in its entirety. It seems some loads are not that heavy when your heart is in it. She journeyed home into the city carrying what some would say was heavy, but if you asked her, Ruth may have said, “How could what Boaz gives be too heavy for me? I am going to wait for his arrival at Naomi’s and make myself ready for him.” 

Similarly, the believer has been told to occupy and prepare for His coming here in Naomi’s house on earth. He has supplied us with provision and a promise of His redemption. We are to go to our assigned place, as Ruth was, and fulfill His assignment until He arrives. Our Eternal Boaz is coming again. He has given us provision to sustain us until He comes. We must occupy until He arrives.

Furthermore, Ruth’s journey home with the barley finds its New Testament equivalent in Jesus’ statement to the disciples in Matthew 11:30. Christ invited those who labored and were heavy laden to come and discover the joy of His rest. He promised that, whatever the responsibility, His burden would be light. Ruth had a heavy burden to the carnal mind, but the load was light when you consider the source of strength and supply.

Fellow traveler on this spiritual journey, is your load heavy? When the load is heavy, you may be carrying your own burden; His burdens are always light. Have you grown weary waiting for our Eternal Boaz to arrive?“And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh”(Luke 21:28).

Buy Reflections from Ruth: The Pain from Leaving (Volume 1)

Pausing to Be Filled

by John O’Malley

“Also he said, Bring the veil that thou hast upon thee, and hold it. And when she held it, he measured six measures of barley, and laid it on her: and she went into the city” (Ruth 3:15).

Ruth stood to leave. Her heart was reassured of his midnight commitment to her for the morning. With morning fast approaching, she prepared herself to vacate the threshing floor to return to Naomi. Boaz delayed her departure. He requested she take her veil and extend it out. This veil by all indications is the haik still worn in the Middle East. Then, it was worn by ladies and persons of distinction. It is said to measure five feet by eighteen feet and can easily be used as a pallet for sleeping.

Boaz, in the preceding verse, revealed his concern for the protection of her honor. Now, he exhibits his concern for her provision. In chapter two, Boaz reached her parched corn for her satisfaction in the field. Now, we see him reach her threshed barley for her sustenance in the future. This blessing was from his heart to hers. She sought nothing from him. It was enough to be protected by Boaz. Yet she now found the blessing of his concern as he gave a token of his concern for her well-being. 

Boaz asked her to open her veil so he could fill it with barley. When he measured it out, it came to six measures. This would be approximately fifteen gallons of barley. You can imagine Ruth with arms extended and Boaz filling her veil with barley. The bounty was all she could receive; the verse states that he laid it on her. It is certain she walked with great care back to Bethlehem-judah. 

Ruth’s hands were full with blessings from Boaz. How comforting to know that David, her great-grandson, would write in a psalm that our Eternal Boaz daily loads us with benefits (Psalms 68:19). Ruth opened her heart, and God gave her a kinsman-redeemer. She opened her veil, and God gave her blessing she could barely contain. 

In our haste to “get going” as the day breaks, do we pause in the presence of the Eternal Boaz for Him to fill us with His provisions? The believer should pause each day and seek the filling of His Holy Spirit for daily living. The veil of our life empties quickly as we carry out our responsibilities. Why not pause daily in the presence of the Eternal Boaz and seek His filling so we can make it every day?

Buy Reflections from Ruth: The Pain from Leaving (Volume 1)

Whispers at Dawn

by John O’Malley

“And she lay at his feet until the morning: and she rose up before one could know another. And he said, Let it not be known that a woman came into the floor” (Ruth 3:14).

 The hours from midnight until the darkest hour before dawn passed without recorded conversation. Certainly, they could have spoken, but we do not know it. We do know that she remained at his feet through the night. Nothing illicit would occur as Boaz, honorable in deed, and Ruth, honorable in her devotion to him, would follow what was right instead of what might have felt right in the moment. 

It would be very easy to imagine that sleep may not have come for either of them that night. They could have easily shared their hearts and plans for the future through the hours between midnight and dawn’s arrival. However, the moment came where it was the best thing for Ruth to go back home and wait for a word from Boaz. 

They knew the reproach that could be brought by the townspeople if they saw her returning home after being out all night and coming from the threshing floor’s direction. Although no one would know what had occurred, she determined it best to rise early and go home so as to protect their honor. Ruth began to rise and leave. Boaz spoke to her in what is perceived as a whisper. 

Boaz thought it best for Ruth to do as she was intending. Prudent discretion guided them in this moment. She would depart from him and await his response at Naomi's house. He said, “Let it not be known that a woman came into the floor.” He was not casting her out in rejection for that would have been done at midnight. Boaz was concerned for Ruth; he wanted her to avoid the questions and discussion by the residents of Bethlehem-judah. 

Ruth needed to know that what she was going to do was the will of Boaz. She did not want to act on her own desires. Boaz knew that and whispered to her at dawn the words she needed to hear to face a day of uncertainty. Her husband’s inheritance and family name would be placed on the auction block for someone else to lay claim to her heart. She needed to know that going home was his will.

Boaz’s whisper at dawn may not sound like a comfort at first reading. However, consider it closely. She needed to know she was doing the right thing; Boaz gave her clear indication that it was, and also gave her his guideline.

Have you ever spent the night wondering what might be the next day? Have you ever pondered whether or not your decisions were in God’s will? Our Eternal Boaz still whispers at dawn for those who listen. The Bible will whisper to the listening heart confirmations of His will when our nights are at the darkest. 

Buy Reflections from Ruth: The Pain from Leaving (Volume 1)

A Promise to Sleep On

by John O’Malley

“Tarry this night, and it shall be in the morning, that if he will perform unto thee the part of a kinsman, well; let him do the kinsman’s part: but if he will not do the part of a kinsman to thee, then will I do the part of a kinsman to thee, as the Lord liveth: lie down until the morning” (Ruth 3:13).

The cover of darkness hovered over Boaz and Ruth. The midnight hour was upon them as decisions affecting the rest of their lives were contemplated. Ruth listened as Boaz’s words comforted, confused, and calmed her simultaneously. 

 Boaz proclaimed he wanted to be her goel. Then, he spoke of the technicality of the law that would eliminate him from doing the part. The law indicated the proximity in age or blood to the deceased relative would give them first opportunity to be a kinsman-redeemer.

In the stillness of the night, with Ruth’s heart surely beating fast, Boaz instructs her to stay the night and lie down, remaining at his feet until the morning; and they would see what would happen in the matter of the kinsman who was nearer. Ruth could have thought, “He may be nearer, but he could not be dearer than my Boaz. I will pray that the God who brought our lives together will allow our hearts to be together.”

Boaz’s concluding words on the matter spoke volumes to her heart: “As the Lord liveth: lie down until the morning.” His words brought the reminder to her that God, the great I AM, the Source of everything, the self-existing God of Israel, controlled this moment at the threshing floor and would take care of it. Boaz’s counsel to Ruth would have an immediate effect and a delayed effect on their family. Solomon , their son four generations later, would write in the inspired text, “He giveth his beloved sleep” (Psalms 127:2). God would see to it that this difficulty would be overcome while they slept. 

The threshing floor of Bethlehem-judah held two searching hearts that honorably desired to be together. Those hearts found delightful rest that night. They drifted off to sleep knowing that God was working things for their good, and they could rest in His ability. 

Are you able to rest in the promises of God? Do the worries of the tomorrow prevent your sleep from arriving each night? Allow Boaz’s words to Ruth to help your own heart: “As the Lord liveth: lie down until the morning.” The next night that brings woes and worries of what might be at dawn, remember that the only thing that is sure to be tomorrow is not a what, but Who.

Buy Reflections from Ruth: The Pain from Leaving (Volume 1)

“A Kinsman Nearer Than I”

by John O’Malley

“And now it is true that I am thy near kinsman: howbeit there is a kinsman nearer than I” (Ruth 3:12).

“I am thy near kinsman”—what comfort Ruth must have sensed. This Gentile gem, mined from the desert sands of Moab to be a jewel in the crown of the Messiah, the Saviour of the world, found hope in the words of Boaz. However, Boaz’s words came with a sharp point that certainly deflated Ruth’s hopes and heart.  

Ruth’s heart must have felt the blow. Everything she had felt and thought in this moment of security seemed in jeopardy. Did he not say he would be her goel? Had Boaz not said that he would take care of it all? What happened to “I will do to thee all that thou requirest”?

This man of honor spoke with certainty. He said, “I am thy near kinsman.” God’s law was clear. Boaz knew that she chose him, not this other relative. She requested of him the liberation of her deceased husband’s honor. However, that was not the sole request. She also sought the deliverance of her own heart. Ruth’s heart was toward Boaz, not a different relative. Would her dreams of a lifetime with Boaz be dashed now by a technicality? 

The law made it clear: the legal right belonged to the closest relative. Boaz knew another relative legally stood in the way of the deliverance of her heart. He offered himself as Ruth’s goel; however, though he had the ability, the law still had to be fulfilled. He would seek the nearer kinsman and give him the opportunity to do his part. Boaz promised her, “If he will not, I will.”

Mankind faces a problem similar to Ruth's. The relative that had the right to be Ruth’s goel had the first claim on Ruth. The law has first claim on every person born into the world. Yet none could ever fulfill every point of the law. This desperation is similar to what Ruth felt. The other relative that Boaz had to seek could not do the part of a goel. As Ruth had a Boaz who would be her goel, mankind has a Boaz who is our Goel. 

Jesus Christ, our Goel, offered and gave His righteous life on the cross to fulfill every point of the law. Every attempt of man to redeem his own lost state is met with frustration and failure. Mankind’s desperation is exchanged for hope when he trusts Jesus as his Eternal Goel. It is in Christ alone that man finds the redemption of his heart.

Your sin nature stands between you and God. Like the relative of Boaz that declined the offer to provide deliverance, the law has to decline, as it cannot save anyone. Any confidence that good deeds alone will bring forgiveness will meet with disappointment and death. The only hope mankind has for salvation is in the redemption of Jesus Christ, our Eternal Boaz!

Buy Reflections from Ruth: The Pain from Leaving (Volume 1)

A Testimony of Virtue

by John O’Malley

“And now, my daughter, fear not; I will do to thee all that thou requirest: for all the city of my people doth know that thou art a virtuous woman” (Ruth 3:11).

Ruth could not have imagined a more comforting response than what she received. Had Boaz stopped with just his commitment to be all that she needed, it was more than enough. Yet Boaz’s commitment came with a compliment that certainly warmed Ruth’s heart in a way she may not have known or could have dreamt. Boaz said, “For all the city of my people doth know that thou art a virtuous woman.” Boaz’s words from the threshing floor could not have honored Ruth’s heart any more. 

“Virtuous”—the very word he chose indicated he saw beyond the threshing floor and all the way back to the dusty border between Moab and Israel. That day, when she made her choice to fulfill her deceased husband’s role of caring for his mother, she also determined to follow the God of Israel. Her words to Naomi would not remain on the desert sand but would make a journey to both the heart of God and of Boaz.

Boaz’s words made it clear: her virtue was apparent to the townspeople of Bethlehem-judah. They watched as Ruth cared for Naomi. Her concern for Naomi was on display from the moment of her arrival, and the people in town saw the virtue in this girl from Moab. The country of her birth would have normally made the townspeople discount instantly any virtue in a Moabite. Moabites were descended from one of the incestuous sons of Lot and were enemies to the people of God, yet Ruth’s virtuous manners overcame the social boundaries. Her confession of faith on Moab’s border enabled the people to see that, though Moabite by birth, she was Israelite by faith. 

Boaz’s sense of Ruth’s virtues came from her conduct in his harvest fields. Ruth’s steadfastness to work in Boaz’s fields revealed her worth to him. She did not try to go to other fields. Nor did she just try to get by for herself; she sought provision for Naomi. She did not stay for one harvesting; she stayed for the harvest of barley and wheat. 

Now, with Ruth’s journey of hope to the threshing floor tonight and her request and plea for a goel, Boaz sensed the virtues of her compassion and character. Only one word could describe the life of Ruth: “virtuous.”

Reader, you have before you today a very simple illustration of the value of virtue—that special quality of doing what is right and avoiding the wrong. Do all the people of your community know you are a virtuous person? When our Eternal Boaz makes the assessment of your life, will you be valued as virtuous? Peter’s epistle instructs the believer to add to his faith virtue (II Peter 1:5). Have you made the addition of virtue that Ruth did after her profession of faith?

Buy Reflections from Ruth: The Pain from Leaving (Volume 1)

When His Word Is Enough

by John O’Malley

“And now, my daughter, fear not; I will do to thee all that thou requirest: for all the city of my people doth know that thou art a virtuous woman” (Ruth 3:11).

Remember all Ruth had said thus far in this evening is, “I am Ruth thine handmaid: spread therefore thy skirt over thine handmaid; for thou art a near kinsman.” Her announcement revealed her humility. Her request showed her need for covering, both socially and physically. Her statement about Boaz being a near kinsman displayed her knowledge of God’s provision in the law for a goel.

Boaz’s response to her words indicated he understood her vulnerability and, subsequently, his responsibility. As a handmaid, she needed his acceptance. As someone over whom he would spread his garment, she needed his adoption. As near kin to him, she needed his assurance. 

God’s law established a principle that protected Ruth in her childless and widowed situation. God instituted the rule of a kinsman-redeemer to assist those in dire straits. The Hebrew word for kinsman-redeemer is goel. 

A goel, a kinsman-redeemer, is the nearest living blood relative. It is the goel’s responsibility to restore the rights of another and to avenge any wrongdoing. God designed the law for the goel to assist his next of kin when they encounter difficulties in matters of finance, murder, and slavery.  

Boaz’s words must have immersed Ruth in a soothing calm as she heard Boaz say, “I will.” Boaz’s words said, “I will accept, adopt, and give you the assurances that I will make all things work together for your good.” Boaz’s agreement to come to her aid as a goel protected Ruth, and, although he did not know it, he was protecting the Messianic line. 

Boaz’s promise to Ruth is reminiscent of God’s promise in Romans 8:28: “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” God is able to work all things together for good. Whether we are barren, penniless, widowed, or empty, God is not hindered by our circumstances when it comes to the good He wants to bring.

Reader, you have the word of our Eternal Boaz who can make all of life’s negatives bearable and a blessing. His sole requirement is, “Love Me and live My way.” Ruth did not have to fear when Boaz stepped in and committed to help; nor do we!

Buy Reflections from Ruth: The Pain from Leaving (Volume 1)

Six Words Before “I Do”

by John O’Malley

“And now, my daughter, fear not; I will do to thee all that thou requirest: for all the city of my people doth know that thou art a virtuous woman” (Ruth 3:11).

“And now, my daughter, fear not.” With these six words, Boaz prepares Ruth’s heart to receive his declaration of love. He wanted her to know how important she was to him. He wanted her to trust him as he explained the initial difficulty in his full commitment to be her goel. He needed her to know when he would act.

These words, when spoken by Boaz, are more than just an announcement of their new beginning; it is a message to calm her fears. They are the six words her heart needed to hear. Perhaps Ruth held her breath as he spoke. For the third and last recorded time in this book that bears her name, Boaz says, “My daughter.”

This term, when spoken by Boaz, displayed the contents of his heart and delivered to her a message of affection, acceptance, and assurance. It was appropriate for him to address her in this fashion, for it was an indicator that his intentions were pure and his motives were right. Hearing the phrase served as a comfort to this widowed stranger in Israel. 

“Fear not”—how appropriate for Boaz to say! Today, Ruth graduates from daughter in the harvest to darling of his heart. Ruth’s fears of being a widow for life and struggling to survive in a harsh political and economical environment will now be whisked into the wind. Her loneliness and living day to day is being evicted with his six words. 

For the child of God, we too had a moment when our Eternal Boaz looked at us and spoke similar words. Throughout Scripture, His “fear not” has cancelled fear, brought courage, and renewed hope. The darkest clouds escape when hope breaks across the horizon to shed light on the promises of God. 

Does your future seem uncertain? Consider the words of Edmund S. Lorenz’s hymn, “Tell It To Jesus”:

Are you anxious what shall be tomorrow?

Tell it to Jesus alone.

Our Eternal Boaz cares deeply about what is on our hearts. His reply is still the same: “And now, my child, fear not.”

Buy Reflections from Ruth: The Pain from Leaving (Volume 1)

Kindness to Boaz

by John O’Malley

“And he said, Blessed be thou of the Lord, my daughter: for thou hast showed more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning, inasmuch as thou followedst not young men, whether poor or rich” (Ruth 3:10).

Boaz’s words of rewards, reassurance, and reflections had no sooner entered Ruth’s hearing than he elaborated on why he spoke of these things. Boaz said, “For thou hast showed more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning, inasmuch as thou followedst not young men, whether poor or rich.” Ruth must have smiled with humble delight, yet could she have ever thought that she could exhibit kindness to Boaz. How could this be? 

Boaz’s words, as always, were precise and self-explanatory. Boaz noted an earlier kindness and a latter kindness. He determined that the latter kindness, her presentation to him at the threshing floor, superseded her earlier kindness. The origin of her earlier kindness is left for speculation by the reader. However, the focus is on her kindness this evening at the threshing floor. 

Boaz knew she was younger and felt he was too old to be considered by this widowed kinsman; after all, there were younger men who may have caught her eye. Yet Boaz had not only caught her eye; he had caught her heart. A younger man would not be her choice. This was not a choice of age, ability, or appearance; rather, it was a choice of acceptance. Ruth knew he loved her when she was at her lowest and in her greatest hour of need. 

Genuine affection is like that; it is not the glamorized image portrayed in films or television. Genuine affection is often realized when a kind look comes coupled with unconditional acceptance. This realization for Boaz occurred innocently in the harvest field and deliberately at the threshing floor. Boaz saw this as nothing less than her kindness to him; this was Ruth’s genuine expression of affection for him. Though he knew his heart for her, her arrival and announcement sent a clear message of kindness to his own heart. 

This is a rather stirring thought to ponder. As Boaz revealed that Ruth had shown kindness to him, we should also let our thoughts dwell a moment on our Eternal Boaz. What kindnesses are we rendering to our Eternal Boaz? 

Ruth rendered kindness to Boaz when she followed him. Does our Eternal Boaz see kindness from your walk with Him? When you follow your heart, your kindness is directed toward another. However, when you follow His heart, this sends a message of kindness straight to the heart of our Eternal Boaz!Did our Eternal Boaz hear a message of kindness from you yesterday? Will He hear one today?

Buy Reflections from Ruth: The Pain from Leaving (Volume 1)

Rewards, Reassurances, and Reflections

by John O’Malley

“And he said, Blessed be thou of the Lord, my daughter: for thou hast showed more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning, inasmuch as thou followedst not young men, whether poor or rich” (Ruth 3:10).

With emotions collected and fears abated, Boaz’s reply indicated he fully understood Ruth’s petition, even though he had been awakened from sleep at midnight. His words must have sent a calming peace to Ruth’s waiting soul. Boaz’s response to the precious handmaiden lying at his feet came with a three-part message; he spoke a message of divine reward, daughterly reassurance, and deep reflection. Imagine Ruth’s delight in knowing Naomi was right; he did know what to say. 

Boaz began, “Blessed be thou of the Lord.” Her arrival heralded the Lord’s blessing to Boaz; he desired God’s blessing for her. You may recall when Boaz first came to the harvest field, the reaper’s reply to Boaz’s salutation was “The Lordbless thee.” Now, with her arrival, the lord of the harvest was offering her the same greeting. This greeting signaled to her that she was in a spiritual company and should feel protected. The human mind would love to take a scene such as what is before us and read into it far more than what occurred. The opening reply is hardly the way an illicit and immoral meeting would begin.

Without stopping for a breath, Boaz declares a message of daughterly reassurance. Ruth came to Boaz for protection. He responded, “My daughter.” It brought reassurance to her heart that she was accepted by Boaz. Ruth’s position at his feet indicated her submission to his will; Boaz’s words to her disclosed that he accepted her. Never before had Ruth been so vulnerable in one moment and secure in the next moment. Boaz had called her “my daughter” upon her arrival to his harvest field; now, with her arrival to the threshing floor of his heart, he announced the same as an answer to her request for a kinsman-redeemer. His words gave her the reassurance that she was accepted and appreciated. 

Boaz’s words also reveal that he had given deep reflection to this moment prior to her arrival. His words were not an instant assessment at midnight; rather, they were the summary of moments of deep reflection. It is clear that, in the previous chapter, God had fully shown Boaz matters relating to Ruth. Perhaps he had thought about himself being able to be a kinsman-redeemer to Ruth, yet wondered why she would choose him, seeing there were younger men in whom she might have an interest. How this must have elevated Ruth's emotions! He knew the right things to say. His rewards, reassurances, and reflections were all deposited in the bank of Ruth’s heart for safekeeping and appraisal. 

He cherished Ruth’s preparation of the heart and positioning of herself at his feet. He stated that she had shown him more kindness than even at the beginning of their relationship by choosing him over any available younger man, in spite of their economic status. The focus of this book has been on Boaz’s kindness to Ruth, yet the focal point of Boaz was on her kindness to him. 

Certainly, Ruth’s heart embraced Boaz’s words; she had not realized how her actions had been received as kindness to him. He was kind to her first; it was fitting for her to be kind to him. Ruth’s kindness at the beginning toward Boaz possibly occurred when she chose to stay in his fields and not go elsewhere. Ruth also had stayed through the barley harvest to the reaping of the corn. Yet her arrival now was perceived as a greater kindness than the aforementioned deeds.

Boaz saw what Ruth did for him as kindness, an act of mercy. It would be easy to overlook how Boaz received Ruth’s heartfelt actions toward him. She merely sensed his kindness toward her and gratefully responded. Even at this midnight hour, he, with clarity, remembered her kindness to him at the beginning and stated that this kindness in requesting him to be kinsman-redeemer was even greater. Boaz’s mercy overshadowed anything Ruth possibly could have done for him, yet he mentioned that he did not overlook her heart’s devotion to him from the beginning.

The child of God would do well to consider I John 4:19: “We love him, because he first loved us.” Our Eternal Boaz extended grace and mercy to us, yet have we ever considered how He interprets our responses as acts of kindness to Him? Yes, He loved us first. The reciprocity of our love to Him does not go unnoticed. It is rather appreciated. 

How do you love Him? When last did you place yourself at the feet of your Eternal Boaz and bask in His love for you? What was the last loving thing you did for Him?

Buy Reflections from Ruth: The Pain from Leaving (Volume 1)

My Goel

by John O’Malley

“And she went down unto the floor, and did according to all that her mother in law bade her. And when Boaz had eaten and drunk, and his heart was merry, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of corn: and she came softly, and uncovered his feet, and laid her down. And it came to pass at midnight, that the man was afraid, and turned himself: and, behold, a woman lay at his feet. And he said, Who art thou? And she answered, I am Ruth thine handmaid: spread therefore thy skirt over thine handmaid; for thou art a near kinsman” (Ruth 3:6-9).

 “Oh, he is stirring now. He is turning over. I wonder if this is the moment for which I have waited. Yes, it is. Oh no! I have startled him.” 

Boaz stirred as he felt there was someone in the threshing floor with him. Not knowing in the darkness if some marauder had come upon him, momentary fear seized him; he called out, “Who art thou?” 

Ruth could not help but smile; inwardly she thought, “I have lain there this whole time, and he just recognized a presence in the threshing floor.” Ruth was there that night to ask Boaz to be her kinsman-redeemer. Her heart was joined to his heart months ago back in the barley harvest. She remained through the wheat harvest and was delighted to serve with him. Nothing more would please her than to have him accept. 

Boaz wondered as a pleasant perfume reached his awakened senses. “Is it a woman? Why would a woman be in the threshing floor? Who is she?” A myriad of concerns came to mind. 

Quickly, she responded to identify herself properly and to calm his fear. Naomi’s recorded instructions to Ruth did not include these words. However, what she said was perfect. In eighteen words, she presented herself, her heart, and her heart’s desire. “I am Ruth thine handmaid: spread therefore thy skirt over thine handmaid; for thou art a near kinsman.”

She introduced herself as Ruth, his handmaid. She said, “I am Ruth thine handmaid”—not Ruth the widower, not Ruth the Moabitess, nor Ruth a promiscuous woman. By identifying herself as handmaid to Boaz, it revealed the passion of her heart; she loved him. “From the first day in the harvest field when God’s wings led me to your harvest field, I have cared for you. Your kindness and words embraced me from the first day. I have felt close to your heart ever since that moment. I remember thinking that, when Mahlon died, my heart died with him. However, being with you these last few months has kindled a flame inside.” 

The words flowed easily, “I am thine handmaid.” Boaz, I belong to your harvest. I would love to belong to your heart. My heart is pounding out of my chest; I must tell him in this moment; I can wait no longer, I must let him know I am here for pure reasons and to present my petition. “Spread therefore thy skirt over thine handmaid; for thou art a near kinsman.” 

To the average western reader, this phrase hardly sounds romantic, nor does it sound like a request that indicates her willingness for his marriage proposal. Yet, in truth, that is what Ruth’s words meant. Ruth sought his skirt to cover her, not because of the breezes of the evening, but because she desired his covering as the head of her life. This idea comes from a little chick seeking shelter under the wing of it mother as it sensed impending danger. Her words indicated she came to Boaz seeking; she sought for the shelter of his protection as a husband and the promise of his heart. 

Ruth knew the words to use: “Thou art a near kinsman.” To the Hebrews, one word would cover it all: goel. “Boaz, I want you to be my goel.” My heart has been toward you as lord of the harvest; but now, you must know that my heart is toward you as a kinsman-redeemer husband. I wish you to be my goel.”

Boaz knew she was asking him to fulfill a provision in the law of God* as a kinsman-redeemer. The goel was established by God as one who would step in for a family member, however distant, and assist them in time of need. A kinsman-redeemer could redeem a slave from his enslavement; he could serve as the avenger to a murdered family member and bring that perpetrator to face his crime. A kinsman-redeemer would be sought if there were family land that had to be, or had been, forfeited and he could purchase it back. God's law instructed the goel to marry his kinsman's widow to prevent extinction of that family's name. *(Leviticus 25:25,48; Deuteronomy 25:5-10; Numbers 35:19)

Ruth chose Boaz to be her goel. She sought the one to whom her heart had been drawn. Ruth told Boaz, “You are my goel.” She met the qualifications of the law. Ruth was a childless widow; she had land in her husband’s name by inheritance that was for sale, ostensibly to meet financial needs (4:3-5). In matters of the heart, grief had held her as slave since Mahlon’s death; she needed a goel. Ruth sought him because of his kindness first extended to her. She needed a goel; she desired her goel to be Boaz.

Our hearts are thrilled this day as we read this account and recall our own need for a Goel. Our Eternal Boaz loved us when we could not even love ourselves. He loved us first before we even knew how to love Him. He offered Himself on Calvary’s cross to pay the law’s requirement for sin. This selfless loving deed was His offer to be our Goel. We were enslaved to sin; we had no means to redeem ourselves. Our Eternal Boaz became our Goel so we could be His bride. He came to this earth as a man with like passions, yet He did not sin. He is my Kinsman-Redeemer; is He yours?

Buy Reflections from Ruth: The Pain from Leaving (Volume 1) 

Answers at Midnight

by John O’Malley

“And she went down unto the floor, and did according to all that her mother in law bade her. And when Boaz had eaten and drunk, and his heart was merry, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of corn: and she came softly, and uncovered his feet, and laid her down. And it came to pass at midnight, that the man was afraid, and turned himself: and, behold, a woman lay at his feet” (Ruth 3:6-8).

Ruth had listened carefully to all that she was told to do. Naomi knew that, if Boaz was to be presented with their petition, nothing should be a distraction to him. Ruth devoted the time needed to present herself to Boaz. No one could ever know all of Ruth’s thoughts, but one wonders if it might have been like this:

“Yes , Mother! I will do it. I will gladly accept this responsibility. Oh, how wonderful Jehovah is to have made this provision in His law for a soul like me.” With delight she headed to bathe; the time spent cleansing her body would give her the time to prepare her heart for the moment of meeting Boaz as lord of the harvest and lord of her heart. “I hope he is pleased with me. I did try to work earnestly in his employ. I know he has shown his care for me in the matters of the harvest, but now this is all about matters of the heart.”  

With care, she cleansed away the dust of the harvest and the despair from her heart. Her time of washing helped wash and pack away all of the memories of Mahlon, Moab, and the misery of widowhood. “This is a new day! God has given me a way to honor my husband’s name while giving me hope for my heart!” 

“What fragrance will I choose? I hope it is not too strong nor to subtle. I hope he will find it pleasing.” Her skin glistened as she carefully applied the perfumed oil. The fragrance of oil from the apothecary seemed just right. Its soothing quality was experienced both on the skin and in the room as the subtle fragrance from the perfume permeated the room. “You know, it seems the time of washing and anointing has a way of calming the heart as much as it does cleansing the skin.”

Now the challenge of the ages for all women came: “What will I wear? Certainly, he would appreciate this selection!” The raiment of a godly woman was meant to draw him to her heart. She did not need to display her flesh to appeal to his flesh. She would simply dress to attract Boaz’s heart to her own. 

“What a beautiful evening!” The harvest evening, lit with moonlight, brightened her pathway down to the threshing floor. Each step toward the threshing floor brought her further from Moab and closer to God’s man for her life. She could see him now in the distance; the lamps would light the threshingfloor and reveal the object of her affection. 

“Boaz,” she thought within. “Oh Boaz…My Boaz! I must wait until he has finished with his work. I wish I could bring him his meal, but perhaps that day will come soon. I must find a corner in the darkness and wait until he is sleeping on the reward of a hard day and a good meal.” The soft breezes could have easily carried her perfume to Boaz, so she positioned herself accordingly and watched as this man worked, ate, and prepared for bed.

“Look at that heap of corn. How is it that such a heap of corn could be there? He has made sure I have had plenty, yet God has blessed him so. He has worked so hard today! He seems quite content with the day’s work and the harvest’s ending. Oh, look at him now! His eyes have gotten heavy. He is making a spot for himself now. When those lamps go out, it seems I will have five steps or so to get to his feet. I will mark this spot in my mind and walk softly to the place. I wonder how long it will be until he awakes and discovers me there. 

“Naomi made it clear; this is a proper way to present myself to him. I will uncover his feet and lie down at his feet. By lying at his feet, I will show him I am not improper in my motives; I just want to know if he will redeem our family’s name.” 

With tender care, she softly walked from her place of concealment to his feet. “Oh, here is the spot. I will lift the covering ever so gently. I want him to awake, but not quite yet. I want to treasure this moment to its fullest. Lord, I thank You for saving me from Moab. Thank You for Your goodness in letting me meet Boaz. Lord, whenever You choose to wake him, may I be pleasing to him. Please allow him to accept me and fulfill my need of a kinsman-redeemer. May Your will be done in my life.”

She was not sure if the chill she felt was from the breezes or from the excitement that raced through her being. His feet were just below her bosom; never had she been so close to him. Being there with him was enough to warm her heart. “Oh, when he awakes, what will be his first words? Will he be angry? Will he accept me?” 

It seems that, in such moments, time would stand still. Minutes seem as hours; hours seem as days. Midnight approached, as thoughts of tomorrow filled Ruth’s mind. “No matter the hour, his answer is worth the wait. I will wait and be ready for his answer.”

The midnight hour would not prevent a response from Boaz; nor does the midnight hour hinder an answer from our Eternal Boaz. Oh, child of God, with your heart cleansed from the dirt of this world, you can find Him in the darkness. In the hopelessness of any hour, midnight included, you can retrieve the answer for your heart’s question.

Buy Reflections from Ruth: The Pain from Leaving (Volume 1)

Peaceful Obedience

by John O’Malley

“And she said unto her, All that thou sayest unto me I will do” (Ruth 3:5).

Reading our focus verse for this day, one can become struck by the fact of how seldom Ruth has spoken. This book that bears Ruth’s name is full of dialogue; yet, in the whole book, there are only eleven recorded conversations where she speaks. In fact, less than ten percent of the words recorded in the whole book are spoken by Ruth.

Ruth’s confession of faith on the desert road from Moab revealed her confidence in the power of the God of Israel. Her statement on the doorstep of Naomi’s house in Bethlehem-judah revealed her confidence in the provision of Israel’s God. Her conversation with Boaz in the field revealed her confidence in the protection of the God of Israel. The evening ending her first day’s harvesting, she spoke with Naomi and revealed her confidence in the promises of God. 

Her words in this discussion with Naomi reveal her peaceful confidence found in Israel’s God. “All that thou sayest unto me I will do.” The deep, settled peace in Ruth’s heart is unmistakably seen as she received the instructions from her mother-in-law without negotiation, hesitation, or question. She had no need to doubt God, Naomi, or Boaz; she would do what she was asked. 

Naomi taught Ruth how to prepare and present herself to fellowship with Boaz. The moment of response rested in Ruth’s hands and heart. She chose nine words to illustrate her peaceful confidence, which had been shaped by her past experiences with the God of Abraham. All she had been taught, she would do.

Certainly, these nine words come with a lesson to the children of the Eternal Boaz. No matter the length of your Christian sojourn, you have seen enough of God’s omnipotence to see you through difficult days and discouraging nights. Your trust in Him for salvation is enough foundation for you to place your life’s course in His hands and say, “All that thou sayest unto me I will do.”

When you trust Him for your provision, protection, promises, and power, why distrust His peace? You can say with Ruth, “All that thou sayest unto me I will do.” When His peace governs your heart, you will have the calm assurance needed for full submission to His work. Does His peace manage your life? Do you find you trust Him with eternity but doubt His ability in the present? Will you say to Him today, “All that thou sayest unto me I will do”?

Buy Reflections from Ruth: The Pain from Leaving (Volume 1)