TODAY IN THE WORD
In her book Flowers by the Wayside, Beverly Parkin describes a flower that reminds us of Ruth. Parkin says the regal yellow iris “grows in damp places, untroubled by storms and violent winds. There is great strength in its broad, spear-shaped leaves and the flowers bloom regardless of the weather.... The iris has great character.”

That’s a good illustration of the spiritual strength and character Ruth displayed. Her proposal to Boaz that he become a kinsman-redeemer to Naomi and her was perfectly appropriate in the society of the day. God used the same concept to describe His relationship to Israel (Ezek. 16:8).

This was also an act of faith on Ruth’s part, because she was putting herself totally at the mercy of God and the kindness and generosity of Boaz.

She was in good hands! The psalmist reminds us that we serve a “gracious and compassionate” God who is rich in love and mercy. God had been at work for Ruth’s good--and the blessing of others through her--since she first came into Naomi’s family. And since Boaz was also a person of spiritual integrity, he realized what he needed to do and took the appropriate steps.

But why the sudden inclusion of the nearer relative in the story (v. 12)? The drama increases because of this complication. We’re not told how Ruth felt about the possibility of becoming someone else’s wife. It could be that God was giving Ruth and Naomi a test of faith--they had to wait at home for the outcome.

Boaz knew Ruth was an exceptional woman who had gained a good reputation in Bethlehem--and she wasn’t even Jewish. Her presence and godly character served as an example to God’s people of what He expected from them. At various times in Israel’s history, God used righteous Gentiles to call attention to Israel’s lack of faith.

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TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Here’s a simple exercise you can do this weekend, either by yourself or at dinnertime with your family or friends.

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