Bible Chapter: Ruth 3 & 4

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    These two chapters are an example of the importance of understanding historical and cultural issues to understand the story.  Naomi instructed Ruth to go to where Boaz was spending the night protecting his harvest.  It was the custom of the day that she should lay at his feet to express her desire that he, as her husband’s next of kin, would marry her.  Boaz responded positively.  The story goes on to show how he followed the custom and the law the next day.  Boaz became her kinsman-redeemer and they were married.  The nearest relative had the right to marry her.  There was one other person who was a closer relative, but he declined.  That allowed Boaz to marry Ruth.  The book ends by telling the genealogical line to King David.  All the characters in this story acted ethically and morally.  It brought a positive outcome.  Who could have imagined that from her humble beginning in Moab that Ruth would end up the great-grandmother of King David?  You never know what God will do.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    The people in this book understood God’s plan and commands.  They followed them through the ups and downs of life.  They experienced great sorrow and loss.  They could have given up and said God had abandoned them.  Instead they kept following God’s way and eventually experienced the blessings of obedience.  “Never give up” is a statement that has helped carry many through their trials and tribulations.  That is good advice.

3.  How can I help someone?
    Keep your focus in life.  Stick close to the directions God has revealed.  Keep seeking Him.  It can seem desirable to give up, but that’s not the solution.  Eternity is just around the corner.