Ruth 2

Today’s reading in our daily plan is Ruth 2.  Take a moment to pray, asking God to speak to you from this passage.  Then read, using the following notes and questions to help you get everything out of the passage.

SAY WHAT? (What is the passage saying?)

• Ruth goes to work in the fields to glean food for her and Naomi to eat.  When harvest was ready, reapers were hired to cut down the stalks and tie them into bundles.  Israelite law demanded that the corners of the fields not be harvested.  In addition, any grain that was dropped was to be left for poor people (like Ruth and Naomi) who picked it up (this was called gleaning) and used it for food.  This law was a type of welfare program in Israel.
• Ruth went to work in the fields of a man named Boaz who was a relative of Naomi’s late husband.
• Boaz gave special treatment to Ruth in return for all she had done for Naomi.  He explained that his kindness toward her was actually a reward from the God of Israel, whom she had come to worship and believe in.
• Naomi encourages Ruth to continue to glean in the fields of Boaz.

SO WHAT? (What are the underlying principles?)

• Ruth takes initiative to care for her mother-in-law after they arrive back in Naomi’s homeland of Bethlehem.  Once they arrived, she went to work.  She was diligent in seeing that both she and Naomi had food on the table, even though it meant hard work for her.
• God rewarded Ruth for her hard work and her faithfulness.  Ruth took good care of Naomi and God, in turn, took good care of Ruth.

NOW WHAT? (How will you personally apply this passage?)

• Boaz was very generous in providing for Ruth and Naomi who were in great need.  Can you think of someone who could use your help?  Think of the things that you might take for granted:  transportation, food, shelter, clothing, family, recreation, etc.  How might you provide a service or fill a need for someone who is not as fortunate as you?
• Are you waiting on God to provide something for you?  Consider that God may be waiting for you to take the first step to demonstrate just how important your need is.  For example, maybe you need a job.  Are you taking the initiative to go out and apply for various jobs?  When Ruth took initiative and went out into the fields, God provided for her.  What are you waiting on God for?  And what initiative can you take as you wait for God to provide?
• When Ruth went to glean, she “just happened” to end up in the field owned by Boaz who “just happened” to be a close relative.  This was more than mere coincidence.  Realize that as you go about your daily tasks, God is working in your life in ways you may not even notice.  Have faith that God is directing your life for His purpose.