10.23.07
Willing to Get the Job Done
Picking up where we left off with last week after Ruth and Naomi's journey from Moab to Judah, let's dive into Ruth chapter 2. Right away in v1 we are introduced to Boaz. Since we took a closer look at what names mean in the previous chapter, I thought we'd take a quick look at Boaz's name as well. He is introduced as a man of standing and it turns out that his name means "in him is strength". As we will see in this chapter, in this particular man, it refers to an inner strength.
In v2 Ruth demonstrates her willingness to work and do what she can to support herself and her mother-in-law. According to both Leviticus 19:9-10 and Deuteronomy 24:19 Ruth had a right as both a foreigner (or stranger) and as a widow to receive help from the community. It was under these provisions that Ruth set out to work.
V3 uses the phrase "as it happened" to describe how Ruth ends up unknowingly in the field of a relative. Do you think this language is indicative of God's plan here? Why or why not?
In v4 we get our first glimpse of Boaz in action. At first glance, it may seem simply like a friendly greeting, but keep in mind, this story takes place during the time of judges...it is not a time of prosperity and God's blessing on his people. It was a time when "each man did as he saw fit". The fact that during a time of moral laxity Boaz greeted his workers in the name of the Lord is a testimony to his character. As he continues in v5, I get the impression that Boaz is a good manager - he immediately recognized a new face among the workers and inquires about who she is.
The foreman's reply in v6-7 demonstrates that she is indeed a woman of character; he indicates that she is respectful, a hard worker, and that she knows her place. Upon hearing this (v8-9), Boaz immediately begins acting in her favor by looking out for her, protecting her and ensuring her needs are met.
As if we could doubt the propriety of Ruth, her response in v10 is not only humble, but absolutely respectful. She considers herself undeserving of such generosity. In v11-12 Boaz explains his actions by testifying to Ruth's character according to her actions. He recognizes the sacrifice she make to stay with Naomi and blesses her for it. When Ruth responds in v13, we again see her humility. If you look closely, we also see that she trusts Boaz. His words to her have comforted her...I don't think it's too big of a leap to say that in any relationship (parent-child, friend-friend, employee-employer, etc) in order to be comforted by one's words, a certain measure of trust must exist for that to happen.
As the day continues, Boaz continues to treat Ruth respectful and full of care as he invites her to eat with is men and makes sure she has plenty to eat (v14). After Ruth leaves (v15-16) Boaz takes further measures to look after Ruth. He sees to it that she will have plenty of harvest for her day's work while simultaneously protecting her integrity so she is not embarrassed. What a guy! Seriously.
As Ruth finishes her day, she grounds her grain and takes home her bounty, which we are told in v17 is about an ephah - this is a considerable amount for one days work. We're essentially being told, she made out exceptionally well. In v18-22, Ruth then returns home and shares the news of her ridiculously good day with Naomi. The conversation that follows reminds me a bit of good ol' fashioned girl talk! They quickly banter back and forth, trading details and discovering that this new, generous man in their lives is a near relative, woo hoo! Naomi advises Ruth to stick like glue to Boaz's servant girls and keep herself safe. So in v23, Ruth does just that and finishes out the harvesting season.
Are You a Ruth or Naomi?
As we look at chapter 2, we learn even more about the incredible character of Ruth; especially that she seems to have a good attitude no matter the circumstances. What a contrast to Naomi - upon coming back to Judah, she is nothing but self-proclaimed bitter. She shows no repentance for leaving the Lord's land and comes home merely only once the Lord has provided for his people (see chapter 1). Now that Ruth comes home with the news of a prospect on the horizon - my how her attitude has changed!! It seems that Ruth's mother-in-law is vulnerable to letting her emotions and immediate situation determine her attitude instead of letting GOD determine her attitude. If you are really honest with yourself, are you more like Ruth...or Naomi?
Character Counts
Both Boaz and Ruth's characters are examined in this chapter and both demonstrate godliness. What an impact this makes on the story! If either of them were not godly, different outcomes would have resulted. What an effective ministry tool. By simply leading lives worth of the Lord, they make an impact for the Lord. What do you think your character demonstrates? Do you think that others would agree? It's an easy question to brush off, but I encourage you to think and pray about it this week.