PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Ruth 1-2
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“Why have I found such favor in your eyes that you notice me — a foreigner?” (Ruth 2:10)
The story of Ruth teaches an important truth to God’s people.
Ruth stands out as a model believer, even though she is not a Jew.
Her humility and loyalty make her a symbol of God-pleasing faith.
God uses Ruth to bless the future of Israel, ultimately leading to Jesus.
God often uses surprising people to reveal grace through weakness.
Look at the four ‘questionable’ women included in Jesus’ family tree.
Jesus’ heritage includes Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba (Matthew 1:2-16).
This shows how God uses unexpected people to bring Jesus into the world.
God is NOT only for the Jews; God chooses them to reach the world!
We also see Jesus more impressed by the faith of the ‘foreigner’.
“I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith.” (Matthew 8:10)
God shows favour to all people, yet often God’s own people resist it.
The humble, grateful attitude of this immigrant makes God smile.
I can smile too, to find such favor in Jesus’s eyes as he sees me.
PRAYER
Lord, you see all people, you notice the ones others ignore. Thank you that I am included in your ‘questionable’ family tree.
“Your people will be my people and your God my God.” Ruth made a choice. Why did she leave her own homeland? What was it about Naomi and her family that was the draw that pulled her to marry into a Jewish family. I pray that the way I live and act and behave may also be a draw for outsiders to want to join. May that be said about a church fellowship as well – that we may draw people in to find God’s word – but most importantly to find Jesus. Ruth found a home and through her steps in faith became a ancestor in the line of Jesus!
Ruth, a foreigner, receiving blessings through Boaz. God loves all people but they need to acknowledge Him. Both Ruth and Naomi realized the Lord’s handiwork through Boaz, What a welcome coming back home and realizing that. As the Lord blessed Boaz with abundance, Boaz shared his blessings to others. Sharing is caring even outside of the family so they too may see and learn of His goodness. God continues to work through His people also today to show His grace and truth.
1 Grace and truth shall mark the way
Where the Lord His own will lead,
If His word they still obey
And His testimonies heed.
2 For Thy name’s sake hear Thou me,
For Thy mercy, Lord, I wait;
Pardon my iniquity,
For my sin is very great.
3 He who walks in godly fear
In the path of truth shall go;
Peace shall be his portion here,
And his sons all good shall know.