VoM - Entries tagged "Ruth" Finding Wisdom in the Book of Ruth: Chapter 4
Ruth Chapter 4
After their night sleeping, Boaz gets up and goes downtown. We know this is downtown because of the accessibility of the elders/witnesses in V2. So, Boaz gathers 10 elders to be witnesses to this discussion and begins to speak to the close relative. Like any LEGAL thing today, we want to ensure there are 3rd party witnesses to any "legal" discussion. Boaz tells this relative, that Naomi has returned from Moab and has a bunch of land she cannot take care of and speaking on Noami’s half, he would like to offer this land to the close relative. And do so in the presence of these witnesses.
Now, Boaz puts the pressure on this relative in V4b asking this relative to redeem all that Naomi has and the close relative agrees to redeem it. Boaz then informs this relative that if he redeems it he must also redeem Ruth the Moabitess. The reason being, to raise up name of Elimelech, basically making sure Elimelech's name doesn't "lose any face" and/or the name can go on through history. The close relative declines because if he does the Moabite will ruin his name/stature/rappor with the people close to him; and the close relative then instructs Boaz to redeem the land along with the Moabitess.
This really urks me and makes me ask "Why won't people do the right thing?" They won't do so because of their pride. So many people are SO worried about how they look and this really bothers me. Many people won't talk, befriend or help another person because of the shame it brings to their "name". Now, although there are countries and places where honor must be upheld - that is a different story - I am not saying I agree with nor disagree with; but in the United States, people need to grow up. This IS NOT a cultural thing here in the U.S. Now, I know I am taking a Hebrew thing and applying it to today's time; and I think I can do so, because we have the same issue - the issue of "our name".
The relative gives his sandal to Boaz and Boaz goes to the elders and basically says "Hey you guys are my witnesses that he now owns all that was Elimelech’s including wife and children". This also includes having Ruth as his wife, and the text goes on to say that Boaz he did so, for the purpose of raising up the name of Elimelech or moving honor with his name. Boaz doesn’t care about his rapport, stature or name, but doing the right thing - and that is something that will bring Boaz honor. This leads me to ask, “What is the right thing to do?” I work in Human Resources, so this is something I ask ALL THE TIME. I have come up with some quick pointers about the "Right Thing".
- The right thing is tough to do.
- This is NOT something that EVERYONE does; otherwise, this would not be asked. Of course, we can do the "right thing" when times are easy. But honestly, that doesn't even count in my eyes. The "right thing" only counts in those HARD TIMES. Those times of CHAOS. If you can do the "right thing" then - then we can talk.
- The right thing has nothing to do with feelings, nor personal status, but with compassion, mercy and grace.
- The right thing is objective, it is not subjective. Now, I am sure we can all think of a "subjective right thing", but more often than not - it is not emotional or subjective. The right thing is usually found in those times where we must make a decision to "kiss the girl or walk away". When we use our emotions to make decisions, especially in TOUGH TIMES, we may make a wrong choice. In face Scripture tells us, our hearts are wicked, deceitful and sick and cannot be understood [Jeremiah 17:9]. That is why we make those stupid decision; such as, why we have sex with our boyfriend or girlfriend prior to marriage - we get "caught up" in the emotion of "lust and pleasure" and we let our sick/wicked hearts "take over".
- The right thing is unpopular.
- We know how this goes, we know we shouldn't stay out too late and make our parents worry, but we do anyways because we want to "fit in". Another example, we know we should go to church, read our Bibles or even participate in class - but we dont' for FEAR of looking "unpopular". Then we get married have children and wonder why our children are so wayward - it can't be the fact that you don't know how to teach, lead or even show the gospel to your children; perhaps explain sin or even the baptism - so you leave it up to your pastors and Sunday school teachers: all because, you want to be popular.
The elders acknowledge they are witnesses and wish him luck literally saying: "May your home be like Rachel and Leah, building a great name for themselves and being taken care of monetarily and become well known in Bethlehem and have lots of babies with Ruth".
Boaz and Ruth get married and have a baby boy. The people of Bethlehem begin to talk with Naomi, (Grandma) telling her that she is blessed because of her redemption and may the name of Boaz become famous in Israel and proclaim the name of Boaz being famous in all the land. When I think the person of Boaz is famous today, in fact - we are blogging about him. They go on to say that Boaz be one who will take care of her health and personally take care of her and she is blessed because her daughter in law is better to her than having 7 sons.
Naomi took this baby boy and was his grandma and the people cheered for this redemption and they named him Obed. They Cheered Because Obed is the only MAN to take on the family name. So, what have we seen so far? Naomi was blessed by the faithfulness of a foreigner, who was not able to worship with her at church more than people who were able to worship with her at Church - this is not something Naomi anticipated. Naomi's hit rock bottom; but in that brokenness she was show light, a light found in Ruth. Naomi was brought to Bethlehem in brokenness; whereas, Ruth was brought to Bethlehem in service to Naomi and in that faithfulness was able to meet Boaz, so Boaz would see Ruth’s faithful heart for the purpose of drawing Boaz’s attention, favor…and redeem Ruth, Naomi and Elimelech’s name. In that, the Lord changed Naomi’s bitterness to joy through redemption. Through the valley of the shadow of death. To see the joy of the house of the LORD.
APPLICATION
Looking at the entire book of Ruth we see a life of that was worried, then angry and then redeemed in Naomi.
We all have been broken and become angry at God at some point. In those times, we have all made dumb decisions that negatively impact other people. But it is when we admit it, come clean and not harbor it, when God provides a way to release that Anger and frustration. It is in those times when God redeems us. When we let go and let God. Let us look at what God did:
- The Jews were disobedient to God’s direction, so he punished Israel with a famine (as noted in Judges)
- Naomi and Elimelech wanted food and security. So they took matters into her own hands, they took control of their destiny
- God shot that down by allowing her husband and children to die.
- Then Naomi wants to just run away from her problems and go home where she can just have food and be with her people. (Where she should have never left)
- God shoots that plan down by attaching Ruth to her. Again God averting Naomi’s plans and controlNaomi comes to grips with this inevitability and just allows for Ruth to take care of her.
- This is where Naomi lets go
- Ruth is then noticed by a rich man related Naomi. Who can redeem her.
- Naomi sees the opportunity for redemption, but this time – not for herself, not so she can remain in control but for Ruth.
- Naomi is now OTHER people focused.
- So she focuses on the redemption of Ruth instead of herself this time.
- Ruth is redeemed by Boaz and the fruits of their redemption brings Joy and redemption to Naomi.
This makes me wonder, when we secretly hold onto horrible things or negativity and we become bitter, jealous and angry...Is it so hard because, if we let go we are acknowledging “I don’t have control”; or, when we go out on faith are we saying "We don’t want control and we want Him to control?" Probably, and that is so hard. We as people, as sinners, don’t want to let go, we want to attempt to control it. After all, we are always told "We control our own destiny"right? But when we do this we are harboring it and becoming bitter. Perhaps, it is because we secretly don’t trust God to redeem it? We have to ask ourselves…
- Are we trying to control our own destiny or are we willing/allowing God to work?
- Are we holding onto some experience, bad things, horrific event and just sulking or are we giving it to God and telling him you want him to be in control.
- Do we need to let go like Naomi and Let God take care of us in a way we did not think was possible? Perhaps, just like Naomi - through a foreigner that should not desire to care for you but fir sine reason does? Sometimes, God works in ways we NEVER expect.
The generations of this redemption Perez, Hezron, Ram, Amminadab, Nahshon, Salmon, Boaz, Obed, Jessee begot David. So what does this tell us? It tells us that sometimes a decision we make TODAY will impact someone in the FUTURE. Do we think like this? Think about it. If we think about the future we are forced to think about a chain of events. All of a sudden our choices become MORE important, all of a sudden we see how our choices/decisions can IMPACT OTHERS and all of a sudden we are forced to think of the future - That is HARD.
A great example of this is my favorite metaphor, the rock in the pond. When you toss a rock in a pond, you know where the rock is - you know the reaction you get in the pond, a splash. But you may not be thinking about how that rock leaves ripples in the pond and we don't know where the ripples in the pond are going. In fact, where the ripples go may not get to "their destinations" until later in time. Even after the splash is over. Therefore, the decision (rock thrown into the pond) may have affects (good or bad) on areas (in the pond) that no-one expected or thought of.
CONCLUSION 5 REALIZATIONS in RUTH.
- We have to own up to our decisions and REALIZE our decisions TODAY impact the FUTURE of OTHERS.
- We see this in Noami, her decisions impacted generations that came after her.
- We need to REALIZE what seems HORRIBLE today, may be turned around for GOOD TOMORROW.
- Although, Naomi lost her husband and two sons; God turned it around for good. The redemption of Naomi, Ruth and Elimelech's name - and ultimately the bloodline of Jesus Christ.
- We have to REALIZE we need to let go and LET GOD.
- When Naomi finally "let go" God stepped in and did some awesome work in some unorthodox ways that Naomi did not anticipate.
- We also need to REALIZE when God is speaking so we can LISTEN.
- It may be through the scriptures, a pastor, Sunday school teacher or it could be a friend.
- One who is purposefully, intentionally almost forcefully seeking, service and remaining faithful to you. Even when you tell them to GO AWAY!
- Remember God works in ways that are contradictory to our way of thinking – that is because we are sinners and he is not. So our THOUGHTS of how things SHOULD go. Are not originating for a HOLY mindset.
- We need to REALIZE, sometimes, we need to do what is NOT popular for the sake of bringing glory to God.
- Like Boaz, the close relative would not redeem Elimelech’s land because of what Ruth’s name would do to his reputation.
- He was ME focused rather than OTHERS focused. Even when it means the unpopular things requires you to lose face or become unpopular.
One Bible Verse to Think about after reading this book
John 3:30
"He must increase, but I must decrease."
To the praise of the glory of His grace
Judson
 Finding Wisdom in the Book of Ruth Chapters 2:14-3:17 (b)
The previous post (Click Here for Previous Post) brings me to my point today I wanted to convey; that is, the Faithfulness/trustworthiness/following through with promises to the point of bringing Honor to God. Boaz didn't marry Ruth because he can but he allows, he is obedient to the law; whereas, he doesn’t try to pull a fast one on the other family member who is next in line to redeem Elimelech's name and take Ruth for his wife. As we saw last week, Ruth is basically saying "I can be yours" and now Boaz is saying "Yes, I want to be yours too" but he must remain faithful to God before he can be this kind of faithful to Ruth.
I want to compare that kind of faithfulness with today's "faithfulness". Today we are quick to abandon things and go back on our promises, aren't we? I mean let us look at marriages. What is the divorce rate in our country? According to the Center of Disease Control (CDC) the following statistics (Click Here) have been observed:
- Number of marriages: 2,162,000
- Marriage rate: 7.1 per 1,000 total population
- Divorce rate: 3.5 per 1,000 population (44 reporting States and D.C.)
Or let us look at church membership. How many of us know someone who became a member of a local church and skipped on the church when "someone rubbed them the wrong way"? Let me break it down closer to home. How many people do you know who were promised a raise in 6 months or promised a particular rate of pay at hire and then come to find out - you didn't get that pay or after 6 months, then 9 months then one year - NEVER got that raise?
When things get tough we abandon them. Just like friendship, once it becomes difficult or there is some friction between 2 people we’d rather abandon them than engage them. That is why people don’t talk about issues, they are afraid of conflict - they don't want to engage, they'd rather be passive and call it "love". Why you ask? It is SO EASY to run from a problem than it is to correct it. We today are not that good at fulfilling our promises and for that reason we are numb to the damage breaking a promise does.
Now let us look at some application of Faithfulness from Proverbs:
FAITHLESSNESS IN PROVERBS
Proverbs 12:22
Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD,
The first thing I want to point out, God calls a lie an "Abomination" which can be accurately defined as something that is "disgusting, ethically evil, detestable, vile, disgrace, outrage, or hateful". So when you break a promise or aren’t there for a friend, or don’t follow through with something you said you would do – you just lied. You lie and God thinks you are a disgusting, detestable, vile person who should be disgraced and makes him outraged. When someone talks bad about someone and you sit back and listen "in love" (note the sarcasm) you are a liar. You are a liar by a sin of omission, you are omitting your feelings so you "agree" with them to "please" their insecurity. That is a lie. Then you meet that person your friend was just talking about and "act like nothing was ever said" "in love". Again, you lie. That is evil and demonic.
Proverbs 23:27-28
For a harlot is a deep pit And an adulterous woman is a narrow well. Surely she lurks as a robber, And increases the faithless among men.
The reason why God hates liars, they just make more liars. Like a virus they spread from one human to another. And this virus infects you heart by just listening others "in love". Do you find yourself around a liar and find yourself lieing? Like in the previous example, you are now lieing because that person lied. Playing this fake, mask of counterfeit with others - Is a lie. All of this is why Proverbs says:
Proverbs 25:19
Like a bad tooth and an unsteady foot Is confidence in a faithless man in time of trouble.
A person who isn’t trustworthy, cannot be counted on. For instance, a “bad tooth” – where every time you try to nourish yourself (through eating), you get hurt and so your careful to nourish yourself to avoid the pain. Ever have that in a friend? Where you say, “Man I am struggeling, maybe I should go to evening service" – then your friend is like “Nah” we should just hang out tonight and watch movies or have a Friends marathon? And you ditch worship or Sunday school or any service to Jesus? You don't need friends that infect you with worldly means to take care of spiritual needs!
Or they can be like An unsteady foot – when you lean on them they are not there. Like when you are going through a tough time; perhaps in sin or falling away from God, maybe your struggling with something someone else did and it affects you and you just want to escape, you go to lean on a friend and rather than hold you up so you can walk to Jesus, you fall. For instance, Perhaps, you are trying to get back into your devotions and you go to a friend and say “Hey let us do devotions together” and they say "Sure" but NEVER follow through, they are an unsteady foot. They do not lift you up, they will not be there for you to lean on. Then when you fall (and you will fall) you lose faith in God and you yourself become a faithless person. This same concept can be found in Paul's writings: Paul to write:
1 Corinthians 5:9-11
I wrote you in my letter not to associate with immoral people; I did not at all mean with the immoral people of this world, or with the covetous and swindlers, or with idolaters, for then you would have to go out of the world. But actually, I wrote to you not to associate with any so-called brother if he is an immoral person, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or a swindler--not even to eat with such a one.
Who is Paul talking about? Those people who claim to be a "Christian" they claim to be a steady foot or good tooth. They are deceivers, liars, evil and detestable in the sight of God. That is what Proverbs is speaking about. When you have a friend who is a liar, aren’t trustworthy, one who increases your faithlessness, one who is like a bad tooth or unsteady foot – Paul is literally saying “ WHY ON EARTH DO YOU HANG OUT WITH THESE PEOPLE?!?!" They ARE NOT your friend, they ARE your ENEMY. And again Paul sees the same problem in, not only in Corinth but Thessolanica:
2 Thessalonians 3:13-15
But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary of doing good. If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of that person and do not associate with him, so that he will be put to shame. Yet do not regard him as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.
Paul tells us that maybe, just maybe we will be surrounded by a great bunch of people who are faithless, but YOU - DO NOT LOSE YOUR FAITHFULNESS TO DOING GOOD! But aim to correct them and if they wont’ be corrected DO NOT ASSOCIATE with them, for their own works put them to shame and will BRING YOU DOWN TOO.
Moreover, the Bible says that those who don't change when rebuked are stupid. Don't be STUPID!
Proverbs 12:1
… But he who hates reproof is stupid.
BUT THERE IS HOPE!
FAITHFULNESS IN PROVERBS
Proverbs 25:13
Like the cold of snow in the time of harvest Is a faithful messenger to those who send him, For he refreshes the soul of his masters.
This speaks about life in the midst of harvest, a busy busy time how something quenches the thirst (i.e. snow). When we struggle we feel as if we are running out of gas and faithful friend soothes our souls and is like a breath of fresh air! A faithful person is one who makes your heart joyful. Not necessarily with Happiness; but with refreshment like “Oh someone does care about me.” Or “Someone really does have my back”. For instance, there are men that I get with from time to time, because I just need to be refreshed, where we just sit and talk about Jesus for hours and that just re-energizes my soul. They are like a snow in the heat of a desert. They help me get focused and back on track to finish up what I am working on. This concept is also found here:
Proverbs 27:6
Faithful are the wounds of a friend,
I hit this verse a lot, but the friend who steps up to you reprove you. Is a true friend. Sometimes, when I struggle with sin or frustration, I get with a buddy of mine who just gives me a shot in the arm when I need it. Not necessarily to tell me I a m wrong, but to reconcile my relationship either with a.) God, b.) Friend c) themselves; that is faithfulness. We ALL need someone like that, and if we don’t’ have that – then we will Find ourselves slowly moving away from God. We not only to check ourselves before we wreck ourselves but also someone else to check us.
Proverbs 13:17
A wicked messenger falls into adversity, But a faithful envoy brings healing.
The faithful person is a person who brings joy/refreshment to your life but also healing. When a faithful person comes to you and seeks to remain by your side through thick and thin, they will not only be like a breath of fresh air, but will be like a Tylenol. For example, when you get a headache you RUN for the Tylenol. That is what a true friend should be, you IMMEDIATELY run to them for healing.
To the praise of the glory of His grace
Judson
 Finding Wisdom in the Book of Ruth Chapters 2:14-3:17 (a)
[Ruth 2:14-3:13- NASB]
V14-16 Continuing from Last Week...
Once mealtime came around, Boaz invites Ruth to come eat dinner with his people and/or family. This act is Ruth being included and treated as one of Boaz's own paid reapers. He is attempting to treat her as one he cares for. Boaz is feeding his staff because he wants reapers who are nourished to harvest grain for him. He is nourishing her because he has found favor in her. After supper, Ruth heads out to glean again and, all the while, Boaz commanded the reapers again now demanding they not say anything rude to her.
This again, implies, not only are the poor/foreigners possibly taken advantage of or abused as in verse 9 but also these people perhaps were ridiculed and treated like dirt verbally. Which is why he commands them to give her good "seconds".
Boaz is a great example of how a man should treat his woman. He should stand up for her, protect her and make her feel and know she is secure/Safe in his presence. I would like to expand this protection not only physically but spiritually.
Ephesians 5:24-27 :: Is The Spiritual Way of leading a wife. I cannot stress how important it is to have a man and not a boy as a BF/Husband. I know the selection pool is VERY limited; but women, please DO NOT compromise your testimony of God because you are lonely. Stay strong, remain single. A man will have no problem EARNING your love if he is a man and loves you; however, a boy will whine and complain he can’t have his way. In the above passage, God says that the Church is to submit to Jesus; just like a woman is to submit to the husband. NOT because he is the leader but BECAUSE He is Cultivating/DEVELOPING you into a woman who loves Jesus more and more V26 in Ephesians 5 states "so that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, " Jesus is FIXING the church, CLEANING the church and he is doing it with the WORD. So ladies, ask yourself, does the guy I am dating or would that guy I am interested in lead me to know and love Jesus more? Will he assist in cultivating me to love Jesus more?
Men, ask yourselves do I desire to mature and grow my girl to love Jesus more?
Proverbs 31:10-12 is a great passage of what the Godly woman looks like. Let us walk through some examples.
First Thing to Notice: The text firsts asks, where is such an excellent wife found? This implies she is not “EVERYWHERE” she is rare. She is not "at hand". I am arguing, if Ephesians 5 is telling us what the husband is to do for the wife, cultivate her, build her, clean her for Jesus, then Proverbs 31 is a goal every man should reach for.
- V10 tells us that the Excellent Wife is of high VALUE; meaning, higher moral worth, loyal and to be honored.
- What this means, a woman who stands up for what is right. Who doesn’t give in to peer pressure, but who stands firm in Jesus even when she doesn’t want to. There have been times where I have had loving lead my wife to do the right thing; just as she has done the same for me. At times are times tough? Yes, but it is easier when we know we both love one another
- V11a tells us an Excellent Wife is to be TRUSTED.
- Meaning, not only the husband, but others have FULL confidence in her. This takes time and is earned but can be augmented by a loving husband who is seeking to build you into this example.
- For instance, I am confident my wife (Rachel) doesn’t push me to do things for her own selfishness. I know and trust and am confident in her choices and for THAT I love her. So when God said He will “ make him a helper suitable for" man (Genesis 2:18) I know Rachel is that helper for me and I accept her as an equal.
- V11b tells us an Excellent Wife is not incapable or helpless but CAPABLE :
- Meaning The wife’s capabilities in business and domestic matters guarantee a rich profit and inspire the confidence of her husband. It amazes me, when I look at Rachel’s life, how she is good at everything. Because I see that, I am CONFIDENT in her skills and abilities
- V12 tells us that the Excellent Wife will do her husband good all the days of his life.
- I know that Rachel always has my best interest in mind.
V17-23 :: Girl Talk about the guy
Here, Ruth returns home with her gleaning and shows Naomi what she gleaned. Naomi notices the plentiful good grain and is curious to know where Ruth went and blesses the one who found favor in Ruth. Ruth tells Naomi how she came to Boaz's field and how he found favor in her. At this point, Naomi blesses Boaz and informs Ruth that Boaz is a very close relative. Meaning he may have right to marry her - as was the custom in those days. This custom was to redeem and carry on the family names, in sum. Ruth then explains how Boaz provided security, hope and food for her when she was unworthy to receive such favor.
3:1-5 Namoi indicates she wants Ruth to be taken care of and have a good life. Naomi urges Ruth to take a shower and put on her best clothes and wear perfume and “run into” Boaz at work. But only after he is done with work not during his work. It almost reminds me of one of those “He likes you go talk to him”girl conversations we see so much in television and movies. Now it is interesting that Naomi instructs Ruth to lay at his feet, but nothing in this text, in those times would mandate a sexual advance. It is all too sad that we today think/write and imagine sex into everything.
In verses 3:6-7 Ruth does what Naomi says and in verses 3:8-9 Boaz is startled by Ruth's appearance and inquires who is near him. Ruth tells him the truth and asks if he will share his blanket with her because she is a close relative. Based on the rest of the book, this idea of sharing a blanket is the idea of “getting married” or Ruth asking Boaz to redeem her. People just did things differently then. So she is literally asking Boaz to marry her. In verse 3:10-11 Boaz indicates her desire to get to know him brings him more joy than her hard work to her mother-in-law. Basically he is saying Yes to the marriage proposal and he will do this because he knows she is a woman of high reputation a woman of "Excellence". (i.e. high value, trust and capability - like Proverbs 31. However, Boaz has a problem. There is another family memeber who is closer than he and that family memeber has first shots at marrying Ruth. So Boaz states, that he will go and get this all figured out first thing in the morning.
To the praise of the glory of His grace
Judson
 Finding Wisdom in the Book of Ruth – Ruth 2:1-13
[Ruth 2:1-13 NASB]
2:1-3 - Ruth Works in the Field of Boaz
Naomi & Ruth have returned to Jerusalem and Naomi is bitter for what God has done in her life. Ruth, more than likely, has picked up on Naomi's bitterness and at some point decides to make an attempt to turn things around. Ruth inquires have the opportunity to go and collect food and hopefully find favor with someone in this new land. However, most translations use the word "Glean" rather than "gather". One reason may be to make a distinction in what exactly is happening during this "Gleaning/Gathering". This "Gleaning/Gathering", is a provisions for the poor, sojourners, widows, and orphans; which, allowed them to gather standing grain in corners or borders of fields, as well as dropped stalks and left-behind sheaves by reapers. Seeing that Naomi and Ruth were both without a husband, father and/or brother ect. they were without "hope" and poor. Therefore, they did not have land to reap from themselves but had to depend on the "leftovers" of other people to survive. Naomi informs Ruth to "go for it" and that is all we know. So, Ruth seeks out to glean and starts off in other fields but comes to Boaz's field.
This drive by Ruth to go and glean is admirable. Proverbs tells us: "The sluggard does not plow after the autumn, So he begs during the harvest and has nothing" (Proverbs 20:4) . This proverb speaks of the lazy personwho doesn’t prepare for next year or the future, so they have to beg/ask for food because when it comes to harvest the food they planted - there is nothing to harvest. When the famer doesn't take responsibility to plant and cultivate their soil for farming, they are left without crops. This is work only for the responsible. Ruth here, knowing she cannot farm herself makes an attempt to harvest food so her and her mother-in-law (Naomi) have food and are prepared for the upcoming months where food may not be as prevalent. In this harvest Ruth is taking responsibility into their own hands. She knows they are without food and hope of a man, so they are doing what they have to do to make ends meet. It also shows that Ruth is being faithful to her word in Ruth 1:16-17 and adapting to the customs of the Jews.
Moreover, Proverbs tells us He who tends the fig tree will eat its fruit, And he who cares for his master will be honored (Proverbs 27:18). The idea here , the one who takes care of their responsibilities will be honored. Ruth stated she would be loyal and faithful to Naomiand that is exactly what she is doing - taking responsibility for her actions.
2:4-7 - Boaz and Ruth Meet
Boaz returns home and greets his reapers and notices a woman sitting in the tent in the field; so being the landowner inquires about the young lady and literally ask "whose" is this woman. He wants to know who she belongs to or who owns/has rights to her. The reapers respond indicating "she is the Moabites that returned with Naomi". This tells us, this woman is known - people know of her and she has a reputation about her. The reaper continues, indicating Ruth asked if she could glean, take home the leftovers, from the reapers and now she is resting in the place Boaz first noticed her. This dialogue tells us a couple of things,
- She would ask permission to glean
- She is a hard worker
- And she is free to date. That is, she came home with Naomi from Moab husbandless otherwise, they wouldn’t be gleaning.
2:8-13 – Boaz gives find favor in Ruth
Boaz decides to engage Ruth in the tent & asks her to pay attentionto his words - showing he is taking responsibility for her.
He gives Instruction
"Do not glean in another field"
Ruth being a stranger in a strange land makes her an easy target for someone to take advantage of. Proverbs tells us: Whoever loves instruction loves knowledge, But he who hates correction is stupid (Proverbs 12:1) . The fact that he is reaching out to this woman, who represents an oppressive country to protect her, shows mercy (the taking away of punishment that is deserved) and grace (the giving of something not deserved). This is true love, when something isn't owed or earned but one decides to give anyhow. Boaz commands her for her own safety to stay in his fields.
He gives her Security
Boaz makes her one of his own and literally "Takes her in" when he considers her one of his maids . This provides security to a woman, knowing that she will be taken care of and is accepted for who she is. Boaz doesn't stop there but also provides additional Safety & Protection, when he commands his servants not to touch her. This reminds me of This Scene in Public Enemies with Johnny Depp, where he plays Dillenger and walks up to his girlfriend (Mary Evelyn "Billie" Frechette) after their first date and a man was being rude to her so he knocks the guy out and tells her that she is his woman and with him now. She knows from that point on John Dillenger will take care of her and she will be safe with him. Now, that may be not be a righteous motive or reasoning but it gets the point across.
Moreover, Proverbs tells us The name of the LORD is a strong tower; The righteous runs into it and is safe. (Proverbs 18:10). Boaz is living an example of the LORD (YHWH) personally taking care over Ruth, and finding Favor in her. Boaz is putting her under his wing and protection giving her access to things she would not have access to - mainly an inheritance only found in Boaz's family.
He provides
Boaz also provided Nourishment; when he offered his water that are offered only to his servants . This offer from Boaz would have been Like cold water to a weary soul, So is good news from a distant land. (Proverbs 25:25). This would have been a sign of acceptance by Boaz and not only water to a weary soul in physical terms but also in the spiritual nourishment sense.
Ruth’s reaction
Ruth immediately falls on the ground at the word that she has found favor. This is the reaction we should have when we come to God. Literally falling to our knees and asking why have we found favor in His eyes. Before knowing God we do not conduct our lives as one who loves God; therefore, we have to ask ourselves "What is so special about ourselves that God would take notice?" Boaz's response is not that of representing God's in the salvation sense; rather, it will be explained in the following paragraph - so hang with me.
Boaz Replies
Boaz explains that he has seen her works. He has taken notice of her works with her mother-in-law. He knows Ruth left all that she knew to be devoted to her mother-in-law and not only that but to stand by Naomi's side even until death. These are the works that James speaks about when James writes: You see that a man is justified by works and not by faith alone (James 2:24). Whereas, Ruth was justified before other people by her works because those works proved her statement “your God, my God.” Those works did NOT justify her to God, noone can be justified before God by their works Romans 4:2. Moreover, since Boaz believed her she found his favor. That is why Boaz says in verse 12: "May the LORD reward your work...from the LORD the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to seek refuge"
Ruth’s Response V13
Ruth response rejoicing, in gratitutde and thanksgiving for Boaz's loving-kindness and she recognizes she is not his family but has been accepted as his family. This is the idea of salvation; where Jesus chooses to have us be comforted and spoken kindly, as He is our advocate before God the Father. This is a true story; however, it is a great parallell of what is going on today in the Church. Where we are out there seeking to find favor with “something” some of us with the true God, others with false gods or we try to gain favor with people through work and/or family.
THE GOSPEL
Some of us are looking to be redeemed, take careof, "taken in" or desiring someone to look over us and our well being like Boaz; yet we mask it as being a contestant on The Biggest Loser - being redeemed from our heavy weightiness, or Wife Swap to redeem our love for our spouse and/or attempt to help another family redeem what we feel is important; some want to find favor in being redeemd in the The Bachelor, whereas, one wants to be loved and find favor in a rich man's arms - because they are incapable of finding "love" anywhere else. We all walk these paths, but do we realize it?
Perhaps, one day, we will be walking through our lives and all of a sudden we come across a particular path where there is abundant substance and the owner finds us working and chooses to sit with us and comfort us, provide security, nourishment and safety for our allegiance. In that time we can say, we are actually loved by someone who shouldn't have a desire to love us. Then and only then, we will be able to return that love because He first loved us (1 John 4:19).
To the praise of the glory of His grace
Judson
 Finding Wisdom in the Book of Ruth – Ruth 1:6-22
[Ruth 1:6-22 NASB]
V6 –7 God’s Grace & Setting Out to Receive It
At some point, Naomi and her daughters heard of God's visiting Bethlehem and blessing and giving them food. This act of grace, one could say it was a miracle, was provided to the Jews who remained in Bethlehem but not with Naomi who resided in Moab. Her first response was to immediately return home where God made his presence known. However, I do not believe the text tells us Naomi's motivation was due to God but to receive the fruits of God's visit. Based on what I will get into later in this post, I am leaning more toward Naomi returning to Bethlehem for the same motive she left Bethlehem, that being to find food. 1.) She returned home where God visited and food was now present and 2.) God sovereignly chose to remove the famine after Naomi had lost her husband and two sons...
This brings me my first point, it is so sad when someone has to hear about God's grace in other people's lives rather than personally experience it themselves. It reminds me of the many people wanting to be healed, see a sign or receive some benefit from Jesus - but truly didn't want Jesus. This consumer mindset is something that is overtaking the evangelical world with it's consumer, stadium watching Christianity. People are drawn for the wrong motives. But that is another message for another time.
One reason why I don’t believe she was drawn by God’s Grace and she was drawn by her own selfish reasons to have a place to consume food; her decision making was similar to that of Elimelech (Her deceased husband). As Warren Weirsbe asked in commentary on Ruth "Why would a believing Jewess, a daughter of Abraham, encourage two pagan women to worship false gods?" (p23) Perhaps she thought God was only blessing the Jews and the Moabites were already blessed with food so "why fix something if it is not broken" or because God didn't punish the Moabites with a famine or perhaps she didn't want to bring home two Moabite women who married her daughters after her husbands death? Perhaps that would reflect negatively on her? It seems to me, that Naomi was attempting to not bring these women home with her. Although, this can't be answered by this text itself; it seems to me, Naomi was seeking practical reasons to survive - moving to Moab for food, all men close to her die in Moab so she lives with her two younger daughters-in-law and when she can go home she "doesn't need" Ruth and Orpah anymore. Or she could sincerely believe they would be better off in Moab. Either way, it still tells me, Naomi didn't get the worshiping God means living for God; as if she was someone who went to Church when comfortable but when "times got tough" she chose her own means over God's.
V8 – 10: Naomi Urges Ruth and Orpah to Return to Their Moabite Homes and Find New Husbands
Namoi immediately informs Ruth and Orpah to stay in the land of Moab, get married and forget her. She evens goes as far to pray that The LORD (YHWY) would deal kindly with them. The word "Kindly" (NASB) here is the hebrew word "checed"; which cannot be defined by one English word; rather multiple words like: loving-kindness, faithful/strong devotion - combined. For sake of this post, I am using the word faithfully devoted.
Naomi prays that God would personally (Note the use of LORD or YHWH; using God's personal name - indicating His personal attention) be faithfully devoted to them as they were faithfully devoted to Naomi's sons and herself. The use of the Name YHWH is very important because it provides us a "look into" the author's mindset; meaning, the author believes that God/YHWH, deals personally with people. For example, I will us an iPod. The new iTunes has a new tracking feature entitled: "iTuneds Genius. If a user is faithfully devoted to purchasing, placing and updating their iTunes library with all the music they purchase iTunes Genius will as, Apple states, "...finds songs that go great together, and creates multiple mixes you’ll love. "
Therefore, Naomi wants The LORD to deal personally with Ruth and Orpah. However, they do not want to go back to the life they once knew; rather stay with Naomi.
V11-13: Ruth Persuasion & Implications
Naomi begins to provide practical examples why they should not stay with her. Naomi stats she is too old to get married, have children to raise for Ruth and Orpah to marry and therefore, she is without hope. Then Naomi tries to persuade Ruth and Orpah by indicating their lives will be harder if they followed Naomi because Naomi will have a harder path than them.
Again notice how this thought process resembles Elimelech's – circumventing God’s will for practical reasons. Furthermore, it is Interesting Naomi indicates God is against her. As if all this horrible "stuff" is because of Naomi - as if she was cursed.
V14-Orpah Listens
Both Ruth and Orpah cried together, indicating this was a very hard decision. However, Orpah ends up choosing Naomi’s way of understanding and takes off to follow Naomi’s advice heading back to her false gods; all the while Ruth remains with Naomi.
V15-18 Ruth Remains/Disobeys and Declares Her Allegiance to “All Things” Naomi
Naomi commands Ruth to go and follow her sister and Ruth decides to disobey Naomi and pledges her allegiance to Namoi. Ruth responds with 4 responses every Christian should live out: Discipleship, Community, Theology, Faithfulness
-
- Discipleship: Ruth indicates she will not leave, but follow and live where Naomi lives. Ruth is disciplining her life to that of Naomi's.
- Community: Ruth, pledges her allegiance to Naomi's people (Jews) and considers them part of the same family.
- Theology: Conversion
- Although Ruth uses the generic term for“God” (Elohim) ; however, uses the term YHWH when speaking of The LORD dealing personally with Ruth when she is to be judged by The LORD.
- Ruth Knows 2 things about The LORD
- YHWH is faithfully devoted to His people (notice the use of the word YHWH - indicating personally devoted)
- YHWH will personally judge His people (notice the use of the word YHWH - indicating personally administering justice)
- Faithfulness: Ruth will be faithful to Naomi even through death and burial
V19: The Homecoming
Bethlehem is "stirred", which means to be wined up, begin commotion or excite. The idea in this tense/context is not in the negative/gossip sense; rather in the excited/positive sense. As if the people of Bethlehem are saying “Is this really you!!!”. If it were gossip, then why would Naomi answer that her name is bitter (i.e. Mara means Bitter) ? It doesn't seem consistent with the definition of gossip.
V20--22: Naomi’s Recognizes God Sovereignty
Naomi calls God “Almighty” (sovereign/most powerful/the one in control) has dealt bitterly; was upset with me. Naomi indicates, "the one in control" has punished her for her sins. Naomi believes she has done wrong and she is being punished for it and she believes that The LORD (YHWH) personally brought her back empty, broken and without hope.
Review: What do you remember about Chapter 1?
Ruth lived in a HARD time; where she was literally broken by God and hit rock bottom in her life. In a time of her life without any hope. The reason why, she followed her Husband’s leadership, whose decisions making was not based on glorifying God’s Glory; his chivalrous attempt to take care of his family ended up resulting in unintended consequences; that being his death, his son’s death – leaving his wife and daughters-in-law without hope. Naomi’s believed this all happened because The Soverign God was bitter/upset/angry against Naomi for her sins & personally brought Naomi home empty, breaking her and making her hit rock bottom.
namoi & proverbs
Naomi was a fool who trusted in her own mind. She chose to follow her husband’s faithless walk to move to Moab. Her and Elimelech didn’t seek any guidance. But found it wise to circumvent God’s judgment. Then Naomi attempted to rationalize why she should not bring her daughters to Bethlehem with her by saying they would be better off in a pagan land of false gods. At times, we too, trust ourselves rather than walk in wisdom.
Proverbs 1:20-33 tells us that wisdom is not some 'hidden' secret thing rather it is readily available. In fact it is screaming at you, wisdom is attempting to get to you. The text continues to tell us wisdom is screaming in a noisy street. This reminds me how many of our decisions today are clouded by noise (i.e. Other people, bad teaching, emotion filled bias ect). With all that said, the text provides us with 3 characteristics of those who not only hear but "do" wisdom.
3 Characteristics of Those Who Do Not Hear Wisdom
- They are Simple-minded or Naïve (i.e. untrained/inexperienced)
- Someone who makes decisions about things they shouldn't. For example, a Christian family that has never been a part of public schools or asked someone who has been in public schools; wants to put their child in public school because they believe their child will be a "light" and "testimony" to all non-believers in public school. I am sorry but that is naive. They didn't seek advice, they didn't seek to understand what they are putting their child into.
- Scoffing (i.e. Arrogant speech, blow off others and/or mocks others)
- Someone seeks to badmouth others and/or mocks. Specifically dealing with decision making. For example, one who has a heart for talking about how "stupid" one is because their decision making is not their decision making. For instance, one who belittles one's decision to choose get pregnant when they can't afford it. That couple doesn't need to be scoffed at; rather, prayed for.
- Fools (i.e. Stupid, arrogant)
- This is the overarching characteristic of the above, they are plain stupid. They are arrogant and seek only themselves. They fail to understand.
V23 But When We Follow Wisdom, Wisdom Will:
Pour out its spirit on you
You will be a wiser person. It isn’t just one decision but you will be a spiritually discerning person; one who makes good decisions all around. This doesn’t mean you can’t make bad decisions, it just means the majority of decision making will be spiritually discerned. Nor does it mean that one will only get wisdom for one decision; rather for many decisions. The reason being, we will know where to find wisdom; so we can come back to it.
Make its words known to you
The words of wisdom will now make sense; we will know what Wisdom has to say. This means a couple of things.
- You know where to find wisdom
- Kind of like a guidance counselor at school. When you want to know how to graduate one semester earlier, you seek the guidance/wisdom of the guidance counselor and you follow his/her direction because you desperately want that goal.
- You actually listen to the wisdom provided.
- When you want to be wiser, you will know where wisdom lies (i.e. pastor/teacher/elder, close Godly friend ect) and you will WORK to accomplish that goal because you understand what you have to do because you actually listend.
The text continues to say that ff we listen – we will be at ease when evil comes around. Because we will trust the word of God.
V24-32 If We Choose to Ignore Wisdom, We Will Receive:
Calamity(i.e. destruction), dread (i.e. Terror/anxiety), storms (i.e. Difficult situations), anguish (i.e. Anxiety/Distress/Stress). These are just part of what we will receive. We will also be ignored as made obvious in the days of Judges; where people cried out to God and God ignored them due to their sinfulness. This is the law of the harvest, indicating we will reap what we sow. Therefore, if we don't seek wisdom then our lives will be filled with unwise decisions leading to destruction, terror, difficulty and stress. Finally, w hen we move our lives without wisdom, we will end up becoming hard hearted to wisdom and become stubborn. This ultimately leads to being "self satisfied", doing right in our own eyes because we chose to glorify self and not glorify God.
Challenge this week:
"What in my life is currently eclipsing the glory of God?" Like Naomi, are you seeking your own sustaining power or are you like Elimelech seeking to save your family before obeying God? What idols are in the way of God's glory shining through your life?
To the praise of the glory of His grace
Judson
 Finding Wisdom in the Book of Ruth – Ruth 1:1-5
This was a VERY HARD time for those in Israel. The economic status was down, due to the sins of Israel, which impacted generations - because Israel forget God and ignored spiritual leadership. It was a time when God and Wisdom was needed more than ever.
"there was a famine in the land"
To add salt to the wound of those living in Israel,they not only lived in very hard times but also a famine. Typically, when food has a sudden decrease in a geographic location, crime increases and people become desperate, begin to deceive (i.e. claim unemployment compensation, while making money "under the table"), commit theft (i.e. steal for the "common good") and become vengeful (i.e. do everything they can to pull others down).
Who is Elimelech?
The name "Elimelech" means “My God is King”. He is from Bethlehem and married to a woman named Naomi and they have two sons: Mahlon and Chilion.
What did Elimelech do?
He sojourned to the land of Moab. Soujoun means to "take a pilgrimage", "live as aliens" or "strangers in a new land". It is the idea of establishing a temporary residence. Typically, people would “Sojourn” in times of famine. So we have hard economic times due to the famine in Bethlehem (which ironically means house of bread)...
What does this tell us about Elimelech?
It tells us he is attempting to be a responsible husband/father. Where he chose to go into a foreign land because there was something offered/available there that was not available in Bethlehem. Elimelech was probably highly concernd about finding a place for work and food so they can sustain their own lives. One may even say this is an honorable move on Elimelech's part. However, we must evaluate Elimelech's decision making. As written last time, I stated Israel was receiving divide judgment/punishment for their sins. Rather than receiving the judgment/trial, Elimelech chose to circumvent/escape/miss the problem or punishment. It is ironic, Elimelech’s name may means “My God is King” but his actions show he does not beleive “His God Does Care”. It is apparent from his actions, he has no faith in that God will see him and his familiy through this trial and he did not commit himself to relying wholly on God to meet his needs. He may have had doubts about the truth his name declared. Althought it is honorable to provide for your family, food, shelter, money ect.; however, it is never honorable at the expense of dishonoring God.
What are the consequences of Elimelech's Actions?
Elimelech made the decision to move out of God’s design by moving to Moab. This led to his sons marrying Moabites. Mahlon married Ruth and Chilion married Orpah. Although Israel is not specifically forbidden to marry Moabites [Deuteronomy 7:1-3]; Moabites were not allowed in corporate church gatherings [Deuteronomy 23:3] therefore one can conclude it is unwise to marry a Moabite; and I would go as far to say against God’s will. Due to the implications this would have on your church attendance, learning God's word and teaching God's word to your familiy's children.
So what is Elimelech's Story?
A man is living in tough economic times of oppression, persecution and famine; attempted to care for his family by sojourning to land not called for God's people, Moab for work/food - in an attempt to escape the punishment/consequences for the sins of God’s people as if he was privileged above the rest of Israel. There are consequences for his actions: his children made unwise choices to marry unwise people, he died, his children died and his wife and two daughters were left alone and more hopeless than if they lived in a land of famine. Elimelech chose to circumvent God’s judgment in an effort to benefit his family’s good.
Proverbs and Elimelech
Some of Elimelech’s Good traits
[Proverbs 16:26 NASB]
A worker’s appetite works for him, For his hunger urges him on.
Elimelech strongly desired to have a job. This is wise for any man and wise for a woman to seek a man who has a job, can keep a job or is earnestly/honestly seeking to be employed (I am not speaking about layoffs).The idea here is, if the man wants something he goes for it - earnestly.
[Proverbs 4:26 NASB]
Watch the path of your feet And all your ways will be established.
Elimelech evaluated where his steps were and where they were headed. He knew there was no food and if he went to Moab there would be food, so he headed there.
[Proverbs 4:27 NASB]
Do not turn to the right nor to the left; Turn your foot from evil.
Elimelech stayed focused on his path. He knew he had mouths to feed, he knew where to go to get food and he headed there.
4 Characteristics We Need To Look For In A Spouse
- They Trust God
- They Discern Righteously
- They Take Responsibility
- They Live Out Godly Stewardship
1.) Trusting God – do not listen to yourself
Elimelech forgot to trust God. He was focused on correcting the problem.
He didn’t trust God enough to follow through with God’s plan/decision; and he found it appropriate to chose to design his own solution rather than follow through with God’s plan. Althought it may seem honorable to move to moab to feed the family, it was not a wise decision. We all come across difficult times and it is in those time you make a choice. You make a choice to shine or whine. Either way, you will leave a mark on another person. We need to remain faithful to God in the bad times. We need to not only believe but live out our believe that God will get you through the trial and he will not leave you or forsake you. [For a great resource on this topic pick up Jerry Bridges' book, "Trusting God" ]. Proverbs instructs us not to lean on our own understanding [Proverbs 3:5 NASB] and to listen to counsel [Proverbs 12:15 NASB]. However, we sometimes tend to focus to believe we can "buy our way through/around" trials [Proverbs 11:28 NASB] or we forget to include God in our decision making and we begin to jump ahead of Him and get caught up in doing and forget God. Proverbs 19:21 states Many plans are in a man's heart, But the counsel of the LORD will stand.
Although we may have many plans in ourselves, we may not be "delivered" :
[Proverbs 28:26 NASB]
He who trusts in his own heart is a fool, But he who walks wisely will be delivered.
It is just foolish to think you can do any of this without God. Elimelech believe he could do it and he ended up dieing, along wit his sons, the ones he was trying to serve and protect all because he believed he was doing the right thing. Belief is not good enough, one needs wisdom. Becaues…
[Proverbs 21:2 NASB]
Every man's way is right in his own eyes, But the LORD weighs the hearts.
We all think we are right, but it is not us who judge what is right but God who does. That is trusting God: A man must trust God over himself and His Family. Women look for a man who seeks the counsel of God. If he goes to make a decision without prayer, you got the wrong guy. Men look for a woman who is going to guide guide/direct/help you to do so.
2.) Biblical Discernment – true wisdom
So your husband is going to seek wisdom from God but is he going to take that wisdom and use it accurately? Elimelech never grasped God’s faithfulness; he heard it but he didn’t apply it to his life. He made decisions based on his family and not God. He displaced God with Family.
We need to not only receive the word of God but keep the word of God in front of us[Proverbs 6:20-24 NASB] . We must seek continually seek to make it a priority or we will forget God Deuteronomy 6:6-9. We are called to obey pur teachers, parents all the while using the word of God to guide us. For the purpose of not making unwise decisions that will greatly impact others . Otherwise "Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, But those who keep the law strive with them".[Proverbs 28:4 NASB]. Men look for a woman who is going to assist you in raising righteous children, they need to be “on the same page” and able to keep Jesus central in your child raising.Women, you need a man who is going to lead you and your family to raise Children who actively pursue righteousness.
3.) Responsibility
If you Trust God and Discern with His wisdom correctly you will be a responsible spouse. Elimelech was responsible but without the first two steps (Trust in God’s Faithfulness & using that to discern biblically) he showed are a lack of spiritual leadership responsibility that led to unintended consequences. (He was not evil, just unwise)
[Proverbs 6:6-10 NASB]
Go to the ant, O sluggard, Observe her ways and be wise, Which, having no chief, Officer or ruler, Prepares her food in the summer And gathers her provision in the harvest. How long will you lie down, O sluggard? When will you arise from your sleep? "A little sleep, a little slumber, A little folding of the hands to rest"--
A wise spouse examines the situation and is autonomous in his/her life. They make decisions without being “told” and own up to their surroundings, going out and working to make things happen - without compromising God's righteousness. Proverbs makes it clear, on many occasions, that responsibility is not easy [Proverbs 10:4-5; 12:27; 15:19]; rather, you have to work hard to maintain focus, purpose and at times youwill have to get your hands dirty. You have to tough it out. Proverbs also states, this cannot be accomplished if you are a lazy responsible person [Proverbs 19:15; 19:24 NASB]
Moreover, Proverbs indicates a wise spouse cannot be controlled by things other than God a desire to Glorify God [Proverbs 23:21 NASB]. Therefore, I encourage you to honestly LOOK at your boyfriend/girlfriend's life look for these RED FLAG characteristics that may be in them:
4.) Stewardship
So he/she must trust God, take the wisdom of God and discern biblically to make responsible choices for the prupose of being a good steward of something that is not his in the first place.
We are called to Pay Attention, Know our Options and Give Reasonably to others
[Proverbs 27:23-27 NASB]
Know well the condition of your flocks, And pay attention to your herds; For riches are not forever, Nor does a crown endure to all generations. When the grass disappears, the new growth is seen, And the herbs of the mountains are gathered in, The lambs will be for your clothing, And the goats will bring the price of a field, And there will be goats' milk enough for your food, For the food of your household, And sustenance for your maidens.
Does he/shemake good use of what he has? Does he/she take the limited resources granted to them and use them to maximize the value of God by magnifying God's work in all things?
Conclusion
Elimelech didn’t set his wife up for success. The goal for every man is to cultivate the desire and motivation in his wife to live out Proverbs 31. The woman's goal should be to be cultivated into the Proverbs 31 woman in an effort to support her husband to Trust God, Discern Righteously, Live Responsibly and be a Godly Steward of God's Grace -and ultimately bring Glory to God alone.
All Glory to God Alone, You Are Loved
Judson
VoM| Ruth Series
Finding Wisdom in the Book of Ruth – Introduction
Finding Wisdom in the Book of Ruth – Ruth 1:6-22
Finding Wisdom in the Book of Ruth – Ruth 2:1-13
Finding Wisdom in the Book of Ruth Chapters 2:14-3:17 (a)
Finding Wisdom in the Book of Ruth Chapters 2:14-3:17 (b)
 Finding Wisdom in the Book of Ruth - Introduction
I am beginning a Hybrid Study in my teaching and thought I would share my summaries here. It is focused on two old testament books, Ruth and Proverbs. I will be attempting to teach Ruth primarily and utilize the wisdom from Proverbs to apply Ruth's principles. With that said, let us get started...
Background & Context:
Ruth is a Moabite woman who married a son of Elimelech, who became a widow, arrived in Bethlehem as a foreigner, became a maidservant, married a Bethlehemite - Boaz and ultimately ended up as an ancestor of Jesus Christ . Moabites were descendants of an incestuous relationship between Lot and his oldest daughter [Genesis 19:36-37]. The Moabites also opressed Israel for 18 years [Judges 3:12-14] and the Moabites were defeated by Saul in [1 Samuel 14:47].
Interesting Facts about the book of Ruth
Some suggest Ruth was attached to the book of Judges; Like Lamentations with Jeremiah. Due to most scholars believing Samuel was the author. Other Old testament Scholars believe that the events that took place in Ruth happened in or around the 10th chapter of Judges.
Ruth is part of what the Jews called "Megilloth" or "5 scrolls". These 5 scrolls would be read at various times throughout the Jewish year, and Ruth would commonly be read around the time of pentacost during harves times. Most scholars believe it was read at harvest time because of the strong harvest scene in Ruth Chapter 2 (Which has a major focus in today's teachings on Ruth)...
[Ruth 1:1 NASB]
Now it came about in the days when the judges governed, that there was a famine in the land.
Why was there a famine?
Leviticus 26 gives us a picture of God's judgment on Israel if Israel doesn't follow God's commandments provided through Moses. Such judgement includes "Your strength will be spent uselessly, for your land will not yield its produce and the trees of the lan will not yield their fruit " (i.e. a famine).
As mentioned above, Ruth happens during the time of the Judges (A "Judge" is a govenor called by God to deliver His people from foreign oppressors [Judges 2:16]; therefore, when we read the Book of Judges we note; God becomes very angry with Israel for not following His commands (i.e. utterly destroying conquered enemies, intermarriage with foreign cultures ect) and begins to place judgment on Israel [Judges 2:1-23; 3:5-6; Deuteronomy 7:1-6].
Israel repeatily did evil in the sight of God, forgot God and His commands and worshiped idols [Judges 3:7-14; 4:1-3; 5:3; 6:1; 10:6-8; 13:1] Israel and the Book of Judges ends with this infamous phrase:
[Judges 21:25 NASB]
In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.
Therefore, the time of the Judges consisted of excessive selfishness, evil, disobedeince, obstinante faith and "religion" (in the sense of a checklist mentality to get out of trouble, then when "things" are "ok" you allow yourself to fall back into sin - this is not Faith but Religion and it kills). The people in the tiem of the Judges repeatdily did two things:
- Forgot God, Ignored leaders/teachers (i.e. didn't put their faith into practice)
- Worshiped the created over the Creator
The people in these days no doubt became tired, beat down, hard hearted and obstiant. When people get to this part in life they do one of two things:
- White knuckle it and try not to show their true emotions - this gets you nowhere but on a vicious cycle of religion and ultimately destroys your life, this does not get at the root; rather only the fruits of the problem
- Realize they are not right with God and in need of repentance - this is root issue.
Israel became disobedient to God and they received the penalty for their violations. Because, they didn’t fully fulfill God’s law when driving out and destroying nations God commanded them to; rather they only did part of God’s word. When they took their eyes off of completing God’s word 100%, they forgot the Lord, worshiped things that were not God and spent time under the oppression of other countries. God ignored their prayers until their penalty was "fulfilled" and once Israel was “ok” – they forgot God again and went back to their old ways. This not only impacted them personally but their children's, children, children (i.e. multiple generations ).
We too follow this same way of behavior.
We know God’s will and we either ignore it or only do part of it to "feel good" with ourselves “today”. This is the evil of religion, there is NO heart change and ultimately remain selfish and receive the penalty that not only impacts us but others. This is a Vicious Cycle: we get down on ourselves, turn around for a short time until we are happy with ourselves and then relapse.
What Can Ruth Teach Us?
- God doesn’t always teach scholastic books but also teaches us through true stories.
- The book of Ruth falls in the middle of Judges, a time of a vicious cycle of disobedience and obedience, sin and righteousness and it provides us a glimpse of hope in the midst of darkness, and hopelessness. This actually reminds me of THIS SCENE in Batman: The Dark Knight; where in a city of such darkness - there is a glimps of hope and goodness. We can apply this to our lives, that in the midst of our very hard times, there is still Mercy and the Grace of God.
- The Book of Ruth Provides us with models of Mercy,Grace and Lovefor us to strive to live. This should move us to act for the benefit of another without respect to the advantage it might bring to one who is being merciful/gracious
- Perhaps God has you a “hard time” right now, for the purpose of doing something awesome and great in your life that will impact others for Good and bring hope to those who are hurting. (i.e Ruth went through hard times, but ultimately used all that happened for His Glory by placing her in the lineage of Jesus)
Conclusion: This is what I want you to remember
- The book of Ruth takes place in a HARD time - Economic status was down, spiritual adultery and evil times.
- When these times occur in our lives we do 1 of 2 things:
- Obey God and persevere
- Forget/disobey God and those He appointed to be over us (i.e teachers); and we will seek to live for those things which are not God.
Practical Application This Week
- Write down glimps(es) of hope during these hard times and pray for them to impact others with the same hope seen.
- Write down some people you know personally who are models of such Mercy and Grace and pray for them to be to be blessed this week.
All Glory to God Alone, You Are Loved
Judson
VoM| Ruth Series
Finding Wisdom in the Book of Ruth – Ruth 1:6-22
Finding Wisdom in the Book of Ruth – Ruth 1:1-5
Finding Wisdom in the Book of Ruth – Ruth 2:1-13
Finding Wisdom in the Book of Ruth Chapters 2:14-3:17 (a)
Finding Wisdom in the Book of Ruth Chapters 2:14-3:17 (b)
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Here you will find Vessels of Mercy (VoM) Posts.
Vessels of Mercy is a cooperative blogging effort between three young men: Brandon Melton, Robbie Melton, and Judson. Being bound together by our love for God, our commitment to His truth, and our passion for His glory, we seek to magnify God’s worth by discussing cultural/doctrinal issues as they relate to the Body of Christ. It is our prayer that through this ministry you will grow in your love and understanding of God and His Word. Most of
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