RUTH PART TWO

Bible Study

The last blog post discussed Ruth Chapter One, which is a story filled with grief and disappointment but ends with a small glimmer of hope as Naomi learns that the famine in her hometown has come to an end, giving her the strength to return.

Chapter Two introduces a blessing that Ruth and Naomi didn't anticipate. Naomi's late husband, Elimelech, had a relative named Boaz, who was an extremely wealthy landowner.

What a plot twist! Don't you just love it when God has a surprise up His sleeve?

There are times when we face challenges and feel that all hope is lost, but the Lord reveals Himself as the God of the impossible, making a way out of no way. This was certainly one of those moments for Ruth and Naomi.

Ruth 2:2 (KJV) reads, “And Ruth the Moabitess said unto Naomi, Let me now go to the field, and glean ears of corn after him in whose sight I shall find grace. And she said unto her, Go, my daughter.”

This verse offers insight into Ruth's character. Instead of dwelling on her misfortune and wallowing in despair—something she had every right to do—she took a bold step of faith and eagerly set out to work. When she said, “Let me now go to the field, and glean ears of corn after him in whose sight I shall find grace,” I felt a twinge of conviction. The Word has a way of revealing what's hidden in our hearts. At that moment, my lack of humility and perpetual struggle with pride were exposed. 

There have been times when I felt “too good” or “not good enough” to engage in certain activities. Perhaps you can relate. If we are being completely honest (this is a no-judgment zone), you might admit that there have been times you felt “too qualified” to accept a position you deemed beneath you, or “too busy” to give attention to something or someone because you had “more important” matters to address. You might have felt “too good” to participate in something you considered trivial. Conversely, you may have experienced feelings of inferiority, believing you weren't “smart enough,” “qualified enough,” or were simply “too ashamed of your past.” 

Pride can manifest in different ways: as being too big for your britches or as deep insecurity and low self-worth.

I've experienced both which is why I NEED Jesus! 

I wonder how many opportunities have passed me by because I didn’t have the right heart posture from the start.

Ruth demonstrates beautiful humility that caught the attention of others. We read that she gleaned in the fields of Boaz, and her strong work ethic did not go unnoticed.

Can you imagine hitting rock bottom, but instead of unraveling, you choose to show up—humble, grateful, and diligent, appreciating what others might consider scraps? In ancient Israel, the law permitted widows and foreigners, which Ruth was, to collect leftovers from the harvesters.

As I wrote this, I had to repent. Lord, please forgive me for the times I have been ungrateful, unable to see Your provision, or unwilling to show up ready to work or serve faithfully.

Verse 8 states, “Then said Boaz unto Ruth, ‘Hearest thou not, my daughter? Go not to glean in another field, neither go from hence, but abide here fast by my maidens.’”

Boaz not only extended kindness to Ruth but also offered her protection and provision, giving her the safety and security needed to continue gleaning in his field. This ensured that Ruth would have more than enough food for herself and Naomi.

Ruth 2:10 says, “Then she fell on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, and said unto him, ‘Why have I found grace in thine eyes, that thou shouldest take knowledge of me, seeing I am a stranger?’”

I read this and felt it deeply. After I rededicated my life to the Lord, I felt completely undone as I reflected on God's grace, mercy, and forgiveness. I don’t deserve it, yet He adopted me as His daughter and provides, protects, and loves me as His own. Isn’t His heart posture towards us amazing and incomprehensible?

As the story continues, we see that Boaz invites Ruth to sit and share a meal with his maidens, treating her like family.

Chapter two is a beautiful illustration of humility, grace, and provision. It reveals that if we humble ourselves and return to our Father, He will not only extend loving kindness but will also allow us to find favor in His sight.

Let's Pray 

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for Your love, provision, and protection. Help us to trust that Your plans for us are good, even when we cannot see what lies ahead. Please forgive us for the times we have acted out of pride. Teach us humility and guide us to be faithful in all that we do. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Disclaimer: I am not an expert in theology. I’m just sharing what I’ve learned during my personal bible study time. I encourage you to take everything back to the Lord in prayer. If you have any questions regarding accuracy, please conduct your own research or seek wise counsel from the leaders in your church or a respected figure within your community.