NOVEMBER 6, 2012
The
Romance
Read: Ruth 3:1-11
“There is a [grandson]
born to Naomi.” And they called his name Obed. He is
the father of Jesse, the
father of David. —Ruth 4:17
Widows
in biblical times often faced a life of poverty. That’s the situation
Ruth and
her mother-in-law, Naomi, were in after each woman lost her
husband. But God
had a plan to provide security for them while involving
Ruth as an integral
part of a much bigger plan.
Boaz,
a wealthy landowner, knew of and admired Ruth (Ruth 2:5-12), but
he was
surprised when he awoke one night to see her lying at his feet (3:8).
She asked
him to “spread the corner” of his garment over her to indicate
that as a close
relative he was willing to be her “kinsman-redeemer”
(v.9 NIV). This was more
than a request for protection; she was
requesting marriage. Boaz agreed to
marry her (vv.11-13; 4:13).
Not
exactly your typical romantic tale. But Ruth’s choice to follow
Naomi’s
instructions (3:3-6) set up a series of events that placed
her in God’s plan of
redemption! From Ruth’s marriage to Boaz
came a son (Obed), the eventual
grandfather of King David (4:17).
Generations later, Joseph was born to the
family, and he became
the “legal father” of Mary’s child (Matt. 1:16-17; Luke
2:4-5)
—our Kinsman-Redeemer, Jesus.
Ruth
trusted God and followed Naomi’s instructions even though the
ending was
uncertain. We too can count on God to provide for us when
life is unsure.
Lord, give us humility and sensitivity to listen
to advice from loved ones who know You well.
Show us the right thing to do in our uncertain
times and to trust You for the results. Amen.
Fear hinders faith, but trust kindles confidence.
Source:
Our Daily Bread 2012
