Winnowing in the Threshingfloor Ruth 3:2 - Equipped for Battle

Naomi has begun to develop a plan for providing rest and well-being for Ruth. She knows that Boaz is a close relative to her husband in kinship that he could be a kinsman redeemer. This meant that Boaz could marry Ruth and raise up children on her husband and son's behalf. She continued sharing with Ruth in chapter three and verse two where she said:

And now [is] not Boaz of our kindred, with whose maidens you were? Behold, he winnows barley to night in the threshingfloor.

Once again Naomi tells Ruth of the position of Boaz, “And now is not Boaz of our kindred, with whose maidens you were?” From the first time Boaz was mentioned by Ruth in our story Naomi has known that he was a kinsman. We should remember that this was the reason Naomi assured Ruth that staying in Boaz' field was the proper move. Should Boaz decide to fulfill the obligation of the kinsman redeemer, Ruth would become his wife, and the fields in which Ruth gleaned could possibly be enjoyed in ownership by her as well. It was wise of Ruth to stay in Boaz' field because she would not only glean grain, but might also glean the field owner as well.

Naomi continued, “Behold, he winnows barley tonight in the threshingfloor.” Naomi knows Boaz' location, “in the threshingfloor”, and she wants Ruth to know where he is as well. He “winnows” which means “to scatter, fan, cast away, disperse, compass, spread, be scattered, be dispersed” and is related to separating unusable chaff from the harvested grain. Winnowers would put harvested grains upon a blanket or sheetlike material and toss the entire contents into the air. A fan created or natural wind would blow away the undesired chaff, and allow the grain to fall to the sheet. Then the blanketed grain would be tossed into the air again and repeated until only grain was left on the sheet. The area in which harvesters would complete this task was called the threshingfloor. This is where Boaz was located, and this is where Ruth would meet her kinsman redeemer.

In the gospel of Luke in chapter three and verses sixteen and seventeen we read where John the Baptist spoke of Jesus with these words:

John answered, saying unto [them] all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I comes, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire: Whose fan [is] in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and will gather the wheat into his garner; but the chaff he will burn with fire unquenchable.

As with Boaz, Jesus was referred to as purging his floor from chaff and gathering His grain, however, Jesus' harvest is not physical barley or wheat. No, rather, it is people in the world who are to be harvested. The idea is that the world is filled with both those who are like grain and those who are like chaff. Jesus is winnowing in His threshingfloor as was Boaz, and the grain and the chaff will be separated from one another. John the Baptist noted that he was not worthy to unloose the latchet of Jesus' shoes and that the one coming would baptize with the Holy Ghost and with fire. Our kinsman redeemer Jesus is ready to winnow. He desires to gather wheat into His garner, however, should we be found to be chaff, “he will burn with fire unquenchable.” Let us be sure to understand the importance and power of the one who winnows the grain above all grains, and may we desire to meet Him for a relationship at His threshingfloor.

Next time we discover more of the details in Naomi's for Ruth, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Seeking Rest and Being Well Ruth 3:1 - Equipped for Battle

The end of the barley and wheat harvest had come, and Ruth was committed to stay in the fields of Boaz. She obeyed the wishes of Boaz, and when Naomi concurred she fulfilled her desires as well. Ruth was faithful to glean until the harvest season was over, and now her life and living was still uncertain. Naomi decided to develop a plan for Ruth and thereby save herself as well. We see the beginnings of this plan and the reasons for implementing it as we begin chapter three in verse one where we read:

Then Naomi her mother in law said unto her, My daughter, shall I not seek rest for you, that it may be well with you?

Naomi was concerned for Ruth's future. She had watched as Ruth lost her husband who was Naomi's son, and she experienced the faithfulness of not only Ruth's return to Bethlehem with her, but also her determination to continue gleaning in the fields of Boaz. Now it was her turn to work toward Ruth's future. She asked, “My daughter, shall I not seek rest for you,” ? Marriage for Ruth was to be a place of rest. To enjoy the company of her husband, raise a family, and have a companion for life should provide security for Ruth that causes ease of mind. Although Naomi and Ruth were both widows, Naomi being the aged one did not desire a husband for herself, but desired that Ruth as the younger one have the blessing of being married again. This, in Naomi's eyes, would bring Ruth rest.

Next Naomi gave Ruth the purpose of her question, “that it may be well with you?” The rest that marriage would provide for Ruth would also include a state of being “well”. The idea is that it may be good, pleasing, and joyful for Ruth. There is a state of living that is not so joyful, and Naomi has known that way. She desires that it be different for Ruth. She wants it “well”, and she knows the state of “being well” would be a blessing to both Ruth and Naomi should Naomi gain it for her.

We too can benefit from Naomi's desire for Ruth. Do we not desire “rest” in our lives? Do we wish for it to be “well” too? Jesus knew the labors and toils we would face in this life. Even as He shared in the gospel of Matthew in chapter eleven and verses twenty-eight through thirty:

Come unto me, all [you] that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and you shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke [is] easy, and my burden is light.

As we think about Naomi's desire for rest and well being for Ruth, we may also understand that our kinsman redeemer has a ready supply of rest and well being for us if simply “come” unto Him. Perhaps we are in great need of rest today. Jesus will be our rest. Perhaps we are desiring “well being”. Jesus will provide “wellness”. All that is required is to take His yoke upon us, learn of Him, and we will enjoy rest and well being in our relationship with God.

Next time we discover more of Naomi's plan for Ruth, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Committed Ruth Ruth 2:23 - Equipped for Battle

Naomi and Ruth have resolved that Ruth should stay in the field of Boaz. They know he is a kinsman redeemer, and although there will be a great benefit of barley by staying in Boaz' field, there may be opportunity to have Boaz as well. However, it is one thing to resolve to do something and another to actually fulfill that purpose. We see that Ruth is committed to keep that she has purposed to do as we complete chapter two with verse twenty three:

So she kept fast by the maidens of Boaz to glean unto the end of barley harvest and of wheat harvest; and dwelled with her mother in law.

Ruth “kept fast by the maidens of Boaz”. In other words, Ruth stayed with them. Her resolve was to stay in Boaz' field, and she did. Can we imagine as day after day Ruth continued her work while Boaz watched her as he did before? Can we see with our mind's eye the young men dropping handfuls of reaped barley on purpose and allowing Ruth to drink from the servants water? It usually took seven weeks to three months to harvest fields, so we note that Ruth's commitment was enduring as she gleaned day after day in Boaz' field.

Notice too, “to glean unto the end of barley harvest and of wheat harvest;” Evidently the barley fields were ready to gather first, then immediately following would be the wheat. Although this was a different grain, still there was work to be done. Ruth continued her work even when her first task was completed. So many times as one task is finished, people stop their work and sit back to rest a while. This was not the case for Ruth, as one harvest ended a new one began.

Finally we see that Ruth, “dwelled with her mother in law.” In chapter one and verses sixteen and seventeen we earlier read Ruth's words to Naomi:

Entreat me not to leave thee, [or] to return from following after you: for where you go, I will go; and where you lodge, I will lodge: your people [shall be] my people, and your God my God: Where you die, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, if anything but death part you and me.

Ruth has kept her words. She committed to Naomi to continue with her, and she has. Ruth has worked continually, and she has faithfully brought home her gleanings to Naomi. Once again we see the resolve not only to declare an action, but we see Ruth fulfilling her words.

There is a vast difference between someone who publishes an idea only for others to hear, and it is quite another when someone fulfills that idea. To make grand statements of resolve is easy. Living them out is hard. Tasks are often arduous, daily and circadian. Only by pushing past monotony, repetition, and humdrum do we ever complete tasks as Ruth did. When others may be inclined to abandoned previous dedications especially when one assignment is completed and another arises, only those who are committed as Ruth will know the benefits of the master of the field.

Finally let us consider this: Jesus declared. Jesus committed, and Jesus fulfilled all righteousness that we might be His reward.

Next time we will start chapter three and find Naomi continuing the plan for Ruth, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Not in Any Other Field Ruth 2:22 - Equipped for Battle

The dialog between Naomi and Ruth has concentrated upon the bounty of supply gleaned by Ruth on her first day in Boaz' field. After inquiring of Ruth where and with whom she had gleaned, Naomi revealed that Boaz was a kinsman redeemer. This meant there were great possibilities for change in both Ruth and Naomi's future, and when Ruth told Naomi that Boaz desired that she stay fast by his young men until the end of the harvest, Naomi responded in chapter two and verse twenty two:

And Naomi said unto Ruth her daughter in law, [It is] good, my daughter, that you go out with his maidens, that they meet you not in any other field.

Naomi encouraged Ruth to obey the desire of Boaz. She first said, “It is good, my daughter.” It is always commendable to understand what is “good” in our lives. We are told that Jesus Himself did good in the book of Acts in chapter ten and verse thirty eight where we read:

How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.

There is great advantage afforded to Ruth if she would obey this good thing, and Naomi recognizes the benefits for acting upon this good.

Naomi then adds, “that you go out with his maidens, that they meet you not in any other field.” This is the second time we have read of instructions to Ruth about staying in Boaz's field. The first one was in chapter two and verse eight where Boaz spoke to Ruth:

Then said Boaz unto Ruth, Hearest not, my daughter? Go not to glean in another field, neither go from here, but abide here fast by my maidens:

Boaz who was the kinsman redeemer field owner knew the advantage of protection and provision which he desired to bestow upon Ruth, and now Naomi understands this advantage as well. There is great benefit for staying in Boaz' field, and Ruth must stay in his field only. Sure there are other fields available, and barley is abundant in them as well. However, there is one major difference, Boaz is not in those fields. Having a relationship with the field owner is where the greatest favor lie. Boaz knew this to be true, and Naomi concurred. Although other maidens may glean in other fields, Ruth was to stay in the field where she would not only glean grain, but possibly the field owner himself.

We too have opportunity to go to other fields which are not owned by our kinsman redeemer Jesus. There are plenty of offerings such as social clubs, religious activities, civic gatherings and the like, and there is “grain” offered in them all. But as with Ruth, Boaz is not in those fields. As we examine the field in which we stay, we should ask one major question, “Is Jesus in this field?” If He is, then we should stay within it, and if He is not, we must leave that field immediately and stay only in the field in which Jesus is the owner. If we choose to stay in His field, advantage of protection and provision will be ours to enjoy. However if do not choose to stay in Jesus' field, we will never know the relationship which we could have enjoyed with the field owner.

Next time we will see Ruth's obedience to Naomi's instruction, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Keep Fast by My Young Men Ruth 2:21 - Equipped for Battle

The story is getting exciting as we can almost visualize Naomi's thought process when she sees the bounty of barley Ruth has gleaned and then discovers that she has reaped in a field owned by a kinsman redeemer. Boaz could be the answer that Naomi has been looking for in all her troubles, and now that Ruth has made a connection with him, Naomi is increasingly interested in keeping the fires of this relationship going. Ruth adds more to Naomi's interest in chapter two and verse twenty one where we read:

And Ruth the Moabitess said, He said unto me also, You shall keep fast by my young men, until they have ended all my harvest.

In response to Naomi's comment about Boaz being a kinsman redeemer, Ruth said, “He said unto me also, You shall keep fast by my young men”. In other words, Boaz desired that Ruth stay in his field. She was to stay close to the young men who were agents of Boaz' provision and protection. It was the young men who watched over Boaz' field who dropped extra barley for Ruth to gather. It was the young men who drew water for Ruth to drink when she was thirsty, and it was the young men who gathered for meal time in the middle of the day. Ruth was greatly advantaged by staying close to Boaz' young men.

Not only was Ruth to stay close to Boaz' young men, she was to stay “until they have ended all my harvest.” Staying in the field wasn't a one time venue for Ruth to follow. No, she was to continue gleaning as long as the barley was available. The harvest time was just beginning, and there was ample opportunity to gain substance for life if Ruth would simply stay close to the young men in Boaz' field. Another way of saying this is that Boaz would provide and protect Ruth all through the harvest season. It was directly beneficial for Ruth and indirectly beneficial for Naomi if Ruth would just stay where provision was supplied.

The harvest of the world requires people who glean. Many people do not know our kinsman redeemer Jesus as their Savior and Lord, and each of us can and will be used by the Master of the Field if we will simply stay close to His young men. Our kinsman redeemer Jesus has promised provision and protection for all who will harvest in His field. Supply is abundant, and we can do no better than to keep fast by the Lord's young men. The church is filled with those who will watch over us and care for us while we are harvesting. To stray from God's field only causes loss to come to our lives, and the protection that is available is forfeited should we stray from His provisional care. May we ever stay close to His young men, and continue working in His field until the harvest has ended.

Next time we will see Naomi's instructions to Ruth, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Boaz, One of Our Next Kinsmen Ruth 2:20 - Equipped for Battle

When we left our story, we saw Naomi questioning Ruth about where she gleaned that day. The bounty of barley that Ruth gathered was far beyond what was a normal amount for a day's work, and Naomi desired to know from where this blessing came. Ruth answered, “The man with whom I worked today is Boaz”, and when she said his name we read Naomi's reaction in chapter two and verse twenty:

And Naomi said unto her daughter in law, Blessed [be] he of the LORD, who has not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead. And Naomi said unto her, The man [is] near of kin unto us, one of our next kinsmen.

Praise and blessing has already been offered from Naomi toward whoever owned the field in which Ruth worked, and now she continues that blessing, “Blessed be he of the LORD”. Notice that Naomi's spirit has been lifted, and it seems that she has arisen from her “bitter” state for a moment. Even though Naomi's life seemed dark and dismal at the time, and she may have suffered with depression, she is still able to recognize when the LORD intervenes. As if in a shout of praise she declares a blessing upon Boaz as he has been influenced by the Almighty God in this gathering.

Also notice Naomi's credit to Boaz' particular kindness, “who has not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead.” Boaz could have been greedy, but he wasn't. Boaz could have ignored Ruth in his field, but he didn't, and Naomi recognizes his kindness that extended beyond himself and toward others, especially with Ruth being a widow.

Finally Naomi distinguishes who this man is and his special title, “The man is near of kin unto us, and of our next kinsmen.” Ruth had no idea about the special relationship of the man with whom she worked that day. She only knew he was kind. She only knew that he provided and protected her, and she only knew that she was to glean in the field and to be busy about her work. Naomi revealed who this man was, “near of kin” which immediately caused Naomi to begin a matchmaking plan. Because Boaz was a “next kinsman” he was in line to obey the commandment of the “kinsman redeemer” which meant he would marry Ruth, have a child by her, and fulfill the obligation of continuing Ruth's husband's name. This connection was special, and although the bounty of barley was wonderful, the person connected to the bounty was even more significant than the gathering.

Jesus is our kinsman redeemer. The story of Ruth and Boaz is filled with references and types of Jesus Christ being the one who desires to have a bride. The church is called “the bride of Christ”, and as Boaz was one who could save Ruth, so our Savior Jesus will save all who will turn to Him. As Naomi, we must first recognize who Jesus is, “our next kinsman”, and then place our faith and trust in Him and believe that He is more than able to fulfill the obligation of “redeemer” which extends to us an eternal lifetime of being in a relationship with God.

Next time we will watch as Ruth informs Naomi of more details about Boaz, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

The Man Is Boaz Ruth 2:19 - Equipped for Battle

We left our story with Ruth bringing her barley gleanings to Naomi. The amount of gatherings was quite shocking to Naomi as it far exceeded what was normal for a day's work. Although Naomi had changed her name to Marah which means bitter because of her circumstances, even she could see a glimmer of hope within this gracious gain her daughter-in-law made. We look further into Naomi's reaction in chapter two and verse nineteen where we read:

And her mother in law said unto her, Where have you gleaned to day? and where did you work? blessed be he that did take knowledge of you. And she shewed her mother in law with whom she had worked, and said, The man's name with whom I worked to day [is] Boaz.

Imagine for a moment the expression upon Naomi's face as she sees this abundance of barley. As with any great gift given to someone we know, we like to inquire of the source of the treasure. Naomi said, “Where have you gleaned today? And where did you work?” By implication we understand that Naomi knew the supply Ruth gained was far beyond what was normal. She had a passion to know from where this grain came, and as she inquired, Naomi was beginning to reveal her wisdom in knowing how to address Ruth's future. What Naomi didn't know was the inner workings of Boaz and even more so the inner workings of God.

Naomi continued, “blessed be he that did take knowledge of you.” Naomi speaks a blessing over whoever it was that attended to Ruth in such a manner. She didn't even know this stranger yet, and still she knows within her that this person had an impact upon Ruth that day. We might say, “Lord, bless him or her” for a person who showed us great favor. Naomi knew there was special attention provided for Ruth, and there had to be someone who extended this blessing.

Finally Ruth showed Naomi who this person was, “The man's name with whom I worked today is Boaz.” The revelation of this great philanthropist was “Boaz” or as we shared earlier, “fleetness.” The one who was so attentive was like a rescuer to the lives of both Ruth and Naomi. Ruth knew the direct benefits, and Naomi shared indirectly. Boaz made efforts long before Ruth and Naomi traveled back to Bethlehem as he was overseeing the planting of his field. Long before there was a desire to extend or receive this blessing, Boaz was attending to the barley by which he would bless Ruth, and before Ruth, Naomi or Boaz knew the story of which they would be involved, God was at work behind the scenes.

If we think about it long enough, we will realize that the many blessings we share are ones in which we should take knowledge. We often forget to examine the huge amount of blessings that our kinsman redeemer Jesus has poured out upon us. Our lives have opportunity to reveal our abundance to others in such a manner that people will inquire of us from where we have been working, and they will desire to bless the one who gave such bounty to us. When we demonstrate the Lord's graciousness in an open fashion, others will want to know who it was that has blessed us so. In other words, our lives become a witness to the one we serve, and when we are asked from whom our abundance of life has come, we will answer “Jesus”.

Next time we will see Naomi's reaction to the revelation of this benefactor being Boaz, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Naomi Sees Ruth's Bounty Ruth 2:18 - Equipped for Battle

Ruth's day of work is complete, and now it is time to go home. There is nothing quite like the time after working all day especially when we have something to show for our efforts. Ruth was carrying five and one-half gallons of barely with her, and her bounty must have felt substantial. Ruth's last venue of the day was to show Naomi her supply. We take up the story again in verse eighteen of chapter two where we read:

And she took [it] up, and went into the city: and her mother in law saw what she had gleaned: and she brought forth, and gave to her that she had reserved after she was sufficed.

The completion of Ruth's work for the day included taking her reward home. Like a paycheck for work well done, “she took it up (the barley she gleaned and threshed), and went into the city.” Wouldn't it have been foolish to leave all her hard work laying in the field? Reward is wonderful to those who work for it, and the most common way is to take the reward home and enjoy it.

Next we read, “and her mother in law saw what she had gleaned:” Can we imagine what Naomi's thoughts were throughout the day? Perhaps they were, “I know what this gleaning will be like for Ruth. She will probably only gather a handful or so. It will be enough to eat for the day, and of course she will have to go out tomorrow so we can eat again.” However, imagine what the expression was on the face of Naomi when she saw this bountiful supply. She must have been in shock, stunned and wondering what in the world altered her normal expectation. She knew what was normally brought home by workers like Ruth, and now she had abundance before her. We must remember, she has changed her name to “Marah” which means “bitter”, and when a person becomes bitter, it is much harder to see blessing when it comes.

Finally, we see what Ruth did, “and she brought forth, and gave to her that she had reserved after she was sufficed.” Basically Ruth took a little of the barley for her own food, and then gave the rest to Naomi. With five and one-half gallons of barley to share, there must have been a lot of reserves. If we think about it, we can almost see Naomi's jaw dropping open as she sees the abundance of supply. This must have been a special moment for each of them as they enjoyed the blessings of the Lord through Boaz' provision and Ruth's hard work.

Can we see through this story our Savior Jesus? Can we think about His abundant provision for us, and how He must watch as we enjoy the fruit of our gatherings? Sure, we work. Of course, we endure long days of arduous work, and often the supply which he has given is simply enjoyed. When He sends favor and grace our way, not only should we be shocked and stunned as Naomi, but we must also be ever so grateful for His abundant supply. It is God who sees to our daily provision, “Give us this day our daily bread”, and it is God who should always be thanked and blessed for laying up for us what we cannot supply on our own.

Next time we will watch as Naomi questions Ruth about her gleaning, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Gleaning till Evening Ruth 2:17 - Equipped for Battle

The scene has been set, and the characters of our story are interacting with one another. Boaz' who is a wealthy field-owner has noticed Ruth who is the Moabitish daughter-in-law of Naomi who has returned to her homeland as a bitter woman. Both Naomi and Ruth have experienced the loss of their husbands, and now because they are poor, Ruth has been gleaning in the field which is owned by Boaz. Boaz has noticed Ruth, inquired about her, given provision and protection for her, and now he has instructed his young male servants to allow Ruth to glean in areas where she normally would not be allowed. He has told his young gleaners to drop handfuls of barley behind them on purpose for Ruth to gather, and as we watch through our mind's eye the continuation of the story, we see Ruth working in chapter two and verse seventeen where we read:

So she gleaned in the field until even, and beat out that she had gleaned: and it was about an ephah of barley.

Once again we recognize the work ethic of Ruth, “So she gleaned in the field until even.” Ruth was tenacious and enduring. Where many may have stopped in the middle of the day or quit long before evening time came, Ruth was still working. Let's remember that Boaz was providing for her behind the scenes, but her part was just to keep doing her job.

In addition to gleaning in the field, Ruth “beat out that she had gleaned:” After gleaning, there was still more work to do. In order to get to the part of the barley that was usable for food, it was necessary that Ruth “beat out” or thresh the bounty she gathered. The stems and stalks would need to be removed to get to the seed portion of the barley. We might imagine the stalks flying, and the dust rising over Ruth as she worked. More than likely this wasn't the most desirable of tasks, but it was needful if Ruth was going to enjoy her gatherings.

Finally we learn that Ruth's efforts with the aid of Boaz paid off handsomely, “and it was about an ephah of barley” which is about five and one-half gallons. This was a large bounty for a poor person. It may have been that Ruth didn't realize the fullness of her gain, but she still had it. Boaz had provided, and Ruth worked. The benefits of each of their efforts were shown by the amount of barley Ruth gathered.

What can we learn from this? First, our part in the world is to just continue working. We do not know all the Lord Jesus is doing for us behind the scenes. We must simply work and keep working until evening each day. Second, we must continue to work as Ruth did even when the gathering is over, and finally, we must remember that the bounty we have gained will not be told until the work we have done is complete. We should be encouraged in the same manner which Paul the apostle exhorted the Galatians in chapter six and verse nine of his letter to them:

And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

Next time we will see Naomi come back into the story again, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Handfuls of Purpose Ruth 2:16 - Equipped for Battle

As we continue our story of Naomi, Ruth and Boaz, we are enjoying the special relationship that is developing between Boaz and Ruth. Boaz has extended grace toward Ruth, and Ruth has humbly and graciously accepted. Ruth continued her work, and Boaz continued his protection and provision behind the scenes. Let us not forget that Naomi is still at home and doesn't even know about this engagement yet, and although it appears that Boaz has doted upon Ruth, the half has not yet been told. We read in chapter two and verse sixteen:

And let fall also [some] of the handfuls of purpose for her, and leave [them], that she may glean [them], and rebuke her not.

Boaz already instructed his young men to avoid stopping Ruth from gleaning among the sheaves that had not been harvested, and he has given her provision for hunger and thirst. Now Boaz says, “And let fall also some of the handfuls of purpose for her, and leave them.” In other words, he instructs his young men to drop some of the barley they have harvested. Let's imagine this for a moment. The young men notice that Ruth is following in their paths. They are working hard drawing the sickle back and forth. Barley is falling, and they are gathering it. As they grab it with their hands, they allow some of it to drop behind them and leave it there for Ruth. Ruth continues to gather and is reaping this bounty of non-gathered barley. The bag she is carrying is getting full, and she doesn't even know she has abundance. She may not have noticed that she has more than one usually gathers. She just keeps working, and the young men keep allowing handfuls of purpose to fall.

There is a reason for these “handfuls of purpose”, and Boaz tells why. He said, “that she may glean them.” It is interesting to note that Ruth “may glean them.” She is not to sit back on the sidelines in a cozy rocking chair with a cool glass of water in her hand while waiting for the young men to serve her by bringing the sheaves her way. No, she is to work. Boaz could have easily told the young men to serve her in this manner, but he didn't. He allowed her to work. She would glean. She would gather, and he would make provision for her as she did.

Finally Boaz instructed, “and rebuke her not.” Once again we encounter the provision of protection that Boaz is extending toward Ruth. Evidently those who gleaned after the initial harvesters would often infringe upon areas they were not permitted to work. This would illicit rebuke from the young men who were attending the fields. However, Boaz eliminates this standard when it applies to Ruth. He commands that no one rebuke her, and his sharp repeat of this phrase shows a continued interest in her welfare.

Do we not continue to see the parallels of this story to our kinsman redeemer Jesus? Jesus is watching over us, and He has repeatedly allowed certain unearned blessings within our lives. His “handfuls of purpose” may or may not be in the form of barley, but from His field of harvest He has commanded rewards, blessings, and benefits of which we are sometimes totally unaware. We just gather. We just glean, and sometimes we are not even thankful for His benefits until we lose some of them. We are protected, and His provision for our continuance to work is supplied every day. In other words, His attention is upon us. He is caring for us even if we only barely notice Him at all. As Boaz cared for Ruth, so our Savior Jesus is caring for us. The key to this story will be to see what Ruth does with Boaz' provision and protection, and the key to our story is to see what we will do with what Jesus has given to us.

Next time we will continue to watch as Ruth works and see the measure of the barley she harvested, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Let Her Glean Among the Sheaves Ruth 2:15 - Equipped for Battle

It has been a joy to watch as this romance has begun between Boaz and Ruth, and as we have observed their conversation and Boaz' provision, we have been reminded of our kinsman redeemer Jesus and His provision and protection for us. In chapter two and verse fifteen we see even greater favor extended toward Ruth where we read:

And when she was risen up to glean, Boaz commanded his young men, saying, Let her glean even among the sheaves, and reproach her not:

Ruth just finished a lunchtime meal where Boaz provided parched barley for her to eat. She then went back to work and continued her gleaning. We read,“And when she was risen up to glean...”. The interesting part about this is that Boaz did not stop her. He didn't say, “Ruth, you don't have to work any more. I am going to just give you all the barley you might desire. Just sit back and relax, and everything will be provided for you.” No, rather, he allowed her to go back to work. However, he gave provision for her as she worked.

Notice as a boss over employees or a general over an army, Boaz “commanded his young men.” This was a non-negotiable. Boaz gave instruction that they were to obey. Boaz had provision and protection for Ruth in mind, and the thoughts he had were to be implemented completely.

He said, “Let her glean even among the sheaves, and reproach her not.” We can imagine that as a person is gleaning, there may be occasions where they would accidentally harvest in an area that had not been harvested yet. From time to time by swinging a sickle and gathering barley, the sickle would swing and barley would fall to which a poorer person was not entitled. Usually there would be servants in the field, “his young men” who would rebuke and reproach a person who did this. It was their job to see that the integrity of the harvest for the field-owner was kept in tact. Boaz told his young men not to stop Ruth if they saw her do this. Ruth was allowed special privilege and grace by the field-owner even when she didn't know it was being given to her.

We too have a field-owner who watches over us. For those who have received Jesus Christ as their Savior, they have a relationship with the field-owner of everything. The interesting part of this story is that the relationship between Boaz and Ruth is in it's budding stage. Ruth has not fully received Boaz, and yet he is providing for her. Ruth hasn't given her life to Boaz, and yet is is protecting her. There is only a glimmer of interest at this point, and the owner of the field is extending grace even when she doesn't know it. For those who may be reading this for the first time or perhaps they are considering the Bible and what it has to say about a relationship with God, know this, the field-owner is watching over you. He is providing for you, and although you may not have yet accepted Him fully, His desire is that His grace and favor will lead you into a relationship with Him. Jesus, the overseer and owner of the world desires a relationship with everyone who will receive Him, and if He should allow that greater provision be given to us to insure that relationship, as Boaz' did for Ruth, He will provide.

Next time we will watch as Boaz provides even more for Ruth, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Ruth Hungry and Fed Ruth 2:14 - Equipped for Battle

The exchange between Boaz and Ruth has been beautiful to consider. As Boaz doted upon Ruth, Ruth humbly accepted his offers. Now after giving an explanation for his graciousness toward Ruth, Boaz includes more benefits in chapter two and verse fourteen where we read:

And Boaz said unto her, At mealtime come here, and eat of the bread, and dip your morsel in the vinegar. And she sat beside the reapers: and he reached her parched [corn], and she did eat, and was sufficed, and left.

Boaz instructed Ruth to stay in his field, continue with his handmaidens, enjoy the protection provided by him, drink when she was thirsty from the water drawn by his servants, and be blessed by the LORD with reward, and now he said, “At mealtime come here , and eat of the bread, and dip your morsel in the vinegar.” Boaz just asked Ruth over to eat! He desires to feed her when she is hungry. Most people who gleaned in a field would simply go home or provide their own food after harvesting, but not Ruth. She was invited to come and dine with the owner of the field. Notice with me, Ruth was to be given opportunity to glean, given drink when thirsty, blessed by the Lord, and now fed when she was hungry. What else does Ruth need? There is even more favor to come.

Boaz has extended gracious favor to Ruth, and now she is sitting at dinner with him. “And she sat beside the reapers:” Let's think about this for a moment. Boaz has only known Ruth for a portion of a day. He has learned details about her from someone else, and although she has a great reputation, Boaz has found her to be as humble and serving as he has heard. He wants to dine with her, and she is willing to accept his offer to do so. But there is more, so let's look at what happened next.

We read, “and he reached her parched corn, and she did eat, and was suffice, and left.” The idea of “parched corn” here is roasted barley, and notice, “he reached her” which means he was close enough to her to give her the meal. It was as if they were sitting together for dinner. This is nothing more than the beginning of a romance, and as people in love begin their journey together, we are watching the back and forth exchange of two people interested in one another. The kinsman redeemer and the foreign servant handmaiden are intrigued, and we are attending their proceedings. The meal was so complete that Ruth had all she desired and had leftovers to take home with her.

We should be thrilled as we read this story when we consider that Boaz is a type of Jesus Christ, and we are like unto Ruth. Our kinsman redeemer notices us, desires to protect us, provide for us, and bless us with His grace. He is willing to feed us when we are hungry and provide drink for us when we thirst, but mostly He desires that we have interest in Him and know He has interest in us. We are participants in a romance with the Creator of the Universe and the one who owns not only a field but everything we see and know desires to spend time with us. Our part is to humbly, quietly, and sincerely accept his offer, and be thankful to Him by coming to dine with Him. Let us come and dine. The Master is calling.

Next time we will watch as Boaz works behind the scenes caring for Ruth, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Not Like One of Your Handmaidens Ruth 2:13 - Equipped for Battle

As we have studied this back and forth exchange of words between Ruth and Boaz, we have notice what great care Boaz has extended toward Ruth even though she was new to his field. This acknowledgment has been humbling for Ruth, and her appreciation has been expressed for Boaz' favor. Boaz has just give reasons for giving her grace, and in chapter two and verse thirteen we read Ruth's response to his words:

Then she said, Let me find favor in your sight, my lord; for that you have comforted me, and for that you have spoken friendly unto your handmaid, though I be not like unto one of your handmaidens.

Ruth's first words to Boaz' kind remarks was, “Let me find favor in your sight, my lord:” As though in an assenting request, Ruth asks, “Let me..” which means, allow me to find favor in your sight. She has come to the settled place in her mind that Boaz' favor is extended toward her, and although she might have felt unworthy of such honor, she now agrees with Boaz' offer and prays that indeed his favor would come upon her. In other words, “Let it be. Let it be so, Let be as you have said.”

After agreeing and requesting to be in the place of favor, Ruth expresses what Boaz' words have done for her. She said, “for that you have comforted me.” Most of us know that place of discomfort in life, and when someone comes along with comforting words it is such a blessing. Let's think about this for a moment. Ruth lost her husband. Ruth moved away from her homeland and those who were familiar to her. Ruth didn't have riches waiting for her when she arrived in Bethlehem with Naomi. No, she rather had to glean from a field as a poor person. Each of these positions brings about much discomfort, and therefore we can imagine how Boaz' words were “like apples of gold in bowls of silver” to her.

In addition to favoring and comforting her, Ruth notes that Boaz' had “spoken friendly unto your handmaid, though I be not like unto one of your handmaidens.” Ruth knew she was different from the other girls in the field. She was from Moab, and those who were foreigners were not always welcomed with open arms. Ruth had a reputation for staying with her mother in law Naomi as she returned, but that was about as much as was known. She was a stranger, and it is likely that she had to push past her being an outsider just to work in the field. We might imagine that she worked alone and perhaps as an outsider without a lot of conversation with the other ladies. Whichever the case, Ruth knew she was different, and yet the kinsman redeemer acknowledged her above all the others. For this Ruth was extremely thankful.

Are there times where we feel like a stranger in the world? Do we wonder sometimes why Jesus our kinsman redeemer would ever extend favor, comfort, and friendliness to us? We know there are so many others He could choose, and yet, we are the chosen. Oh indeed, dear Lord Jesus, let us find favor in your sight. Extend to us your comfort as we live in difficult times. Speak friendly to we who are unlike the others you may choose, and may we ever be grateful for the grace you have given to us.

Next time we will see more of Boaz' favor toward Ruth, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

The Lord Whom You Trust Reward You Ruth 2:12 - Equipped for Battle

When we are faithful to a task that seems somewhat mundane, ordinary and monotonous, do we wonder if anyone ever really sees and appreciates what we are doing? It may have appeared that way for Ruth as she in her normal course of life simply stayed loyal to her mother-in-law Naomi, and then went to glean in a field. More than likely Ruth knew that provision was necessary and someone had to work for she and Naomi's daily bread, so she felt it natural just to go harvesting. However, behind the scenes the Almighty God was watching her, and He had a plan about which we have been enjoying the story for the last few days. Boaz just “happened” to own the field Ruth chose, and Boaz just “happened” to notice her. Boaz just “happened” to question his head servant about her, and what seemed to be “happenstance” led Boaz to give his attention to Ruth in person. Ruth is humbled and reverent to Boaz' offer to stay in his field and be provided for by him, and Boaz continues his words toward her question of why he favored her in chapter two and verse twelve where we read:

The LORD recompense your work, and a full reward be given you of the LORD God of Israel, under whose wings you are come to trust.

Notice first that Boaz points to the LORD as Ruth's provider; “The LORD recompense your work”. The idea behind “recompense” is “to be in a covenant of peace, make peace with, be complete, sound, made whole, finish, make good, requite, repay or pay”. In other words, Boaz desired in prayer-like fashion that Ruth be repaid for her work by the LORD. No one pays and repays like God, and although Boaz might have seen himself in the position of rewarding Ruth for her work and actions, he rather attributed the “recompense” to the LORD. Though Boaz' may have been the agent through whom the payment would be made, Boaz knew that the LORD is true source of every recompense.

Next we see a further desire of Boaz for Ruth, “and a full reward be given you of the LORD God of Israel.” Once again, and now to an even fuller extent, Boaz desires that a “full reward” be given to Ruth. The idea is that God would repay Ruth's wages in a complete and large manner. No one can repay as God repays, and though there may be people He uses to complete his retribution, it is God Himself through whom all reward is given.

Finally Boaz notes the covering for Ruth: “under whose wings you are come to trust.” Once again let's notice how Boaz defers what might have been his own place of position to the LORD. Boaz knows that the true covering of those who trust in the LORD is from the LORD Himself. As Jesus said to Jerusalem in the gospel of Luke in chapter thirteen and verse thirty five:

O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which kill the prophets, and stone them that are sent unto you; how often would I have gathered your children together, as a hen [doth gather] her brood under [her] wings, and you would not!

Although Jerusalem might not have desired to be under the covering of the Almighty, Ruth did, and Boaz takes knowledge of it.

This mighty blessing of Boaz to Ruth should stimulate us to several encouragements. First, the Lord is watching our faithfulness and our work. Though it may appear at times that no one sees, the Almighty has His eye on our continuance in what He has us doing. Second, there will be full reward to our actions some day. It may not be today, tomorrow or even next week, but the Lord has huge rewards waiting for His faithful few. Finally, there is no better place in life than under His covering. We can trust that God's Almighty hand is resting over us as we walk this life, and rather than resisting Jesus as those within Jerusalem, may we all gather under His wings and be as the brood He desires to protect.

Next time we will look at Ruth's response to these wonderful words from Boaz, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Boaz Fully Shown Ruth 2:11 - Equipped for Battle

Ruth is overwhelmed by the grace that Boaz has shown her, and it has humbled her greatly. Although Ruth is a foreigner without any particular worthiness of Boaz' favor, Boaz as a kinsman redeemer has given her special attention if she will stay in his field. After questioning why Boaz would be so gracious, in chapter two and verse eleven we read this account of Boaz' answer:

And Boaz answered and said unto her, It has fully been shown to me, all that you have done unto your mother in law since the death of your husband: and [how] you have left your father and your mother, and the land of your nativity, and are come unto a people which you knew not before.

Boaz told Ruth, “It has fully been shown to me...” In other words, someone was watching Ruth and knew her story. In other words, Ruth's life had been lived on display before others, and people noticed. More than likely this is a reference to the head servant of the field, but nonetheless, traits and characteristics about Ruth were shown to Boaz. Just what was it that impressed Boaz so much about Ruth that he would extend to her such great favor? We shall see in the next part of this verse.

“All that you have done unto your mother in law since the death of your husband:” was Boaz' first reason Ruth's life impressed Boaz. Most of the time a daughter in law might abandon her mother in law after her husband died, but not Ruth. Most relationships with mother in laws are not as favorable as desired in marriages, but Ruth's relationship with Naomi was outstanding and well-known. Though her husband died, Ruth was still loyal to his mother.

Next Boaz mentions Ruth leaving her home. He said, “and how you have left your father and mother , and the land of your nativity,...” This is a rare trait indeed. Not many like to leave the familiar especially when it concerns their mother and father and the place of their birth. However, Ruth did, and because she left, she was the exception to the rule. Her willingness to forsake the well-known and trust in the fate of God for her life elevated her to a position of favor with Boaz.

Finally Boaz said, “and are come unto a people which you knew not before.” Going to strange places may be exciting for a little while, but changing livelihoods to stay there is something quite different. Ruth not only was faithful to Naomi, left her mother, father and birthplace, but was willing to live among people whom she did not know. Although she was unfamiliar with their customs and had no idea of her future when she started out on this venture, Ruth took the risk. Ruth exercised faith, and she trusted that all things were going to work for her good. She left the well-known, and found herself with a great reputation because of it.

What about us? Do we ever trust in the Lord Jesus to lead us into unknown territory? It doesn't necessarily mean that it will be a foreign land, but it may be something to which we must leave our comfort zone. Would we be commended for our loyalty to those who are not as close in relation as a mother or father? Would we forsake our own land to dwell among a people with whom we are totally unfamiliar? Perhaps we should ponder these questions and more and use them as a measuring rod for our faith? Would others who observe us and know our story find us to be a people of faith in God or faith in the security of what we already know?

Next time we will discover more of Boaz' response to Ruth , so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore

Why Have I Found Grace in Your Eyes? Ruth 2:10 - Equipped for Battle

When we read the Bible, we have the privilege of allowing our imaginations to go wild, and in order to understand some of the wonderful stories that lie within the Bible, we must put ourselves in the place of the characters and try to understand their thoughts, feelings and emotions as they go through their life circumstances. We have been doing so with Naomi, Boaz and Ruth as we have studied this wonderful book, and since we have been looking at this blooming relationship between Boaz and Ruth, we have found time after time where their relationship parallels the relationship of Jesus with all who will believe in Him. Today we continue our story with Ruth's reaction to Boaz' as he offered for her to stay in his field. It says in chapter two and verse ten:

Then she fell on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, and said unto him, Why have I found grace in your eyes, that you should take knowledge of me, seeing I [am] a stranger?

Ruth's first response is, “she fell on her face, and bowed herself to the ground.” What a mighty act of worship this is. As Ruth humbles herself before the lord of the field we immediately see the worship of him and the recognition of unworthiness within herself. She demonstrates “humility”, and postures “servant-hood.” Can we see in our mind's eye the shock and dismay of Ruth at Boaz' proposal that is so strong that it brings her to the ground where she looks below as unworthy to him. She is more than likely bowed in a kneeling position that gives Boaz reverence, and her attitude is one of gratefulness rather than entitlement. Ruth humbles herself in body, and then speaks to the one who has given recognition to her.

Ruth “said unto him, “Why have I found grace in your eyes...”? It's as if Ruth doesn't quite understand for a moment. She has no reference to believe that Boaz should have any grace upon her, and she denotes that his eyes are upon her and this grace or “unmerited favor” is a surprise to be offered to her at all. She knows that Boaz owns the field. She knows that Boaz legislates the rules of the field, and yet, this wonderful owner and legistlator of the field has isolated and chosen her for favor. We might imagine that Ruth is quite in awe that this is happening to her.

Finally Ruth continued, “that you should take knowledge of me, seeing I am a stranger?” Ruth couldn't reconcile Boaz' favor. It wasn't supposed to be for her that he would even acknowledge her at all. Her quandary as to why Boaz would even look her way was because “I am a stranger.” Ruth knew the “rule” that Jews had no dealings with the gentiles, and although Ruth was loyal to Naomi, she was still a Moabite, and nothing would ever change that fact. She was a foreigner, an outcast of sorts, and one that should not be acknowledged at all, but there was something about her that Boaz enjoyed beyond the “gentile, outcast” rule. Boaz extended grace to Ruth, acknowledged Ruth, and offered to her provision and protection well beyond her own ability to comprehend this wonderful gesture.

Can we once again see the parallels in this story to our kinsman redeemer Jesus? The owner of the world, Jesus, has extended grace to us which is “unmerited favor” by not only looking our way, but also by dying on the cross for us. Not only does He own the field and govern over it, He also is able to show favor to whomever He desires, and He still has chosen us. When we consider the privilege that Jesus Christ has given to all who will simply believe in Him which means to “trust in, rely upon, and cling to Him”, it should bring us to prostrate ourselves and bow our faces to the ground. It should humble us in gratitude that the owner of the field has cast His eyes upon us. May our prayer be, “Lord Jesus, we who have recognized your grace and acknowledgment worship and adore you for your loving favor.”

Next time we will discover Boaz' response to Ruth , so read ahead in this exciting story, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

Look for the new devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore