Sermon Audio: LINK

Opening:

Today, we’re diving into Ruth chapter 3, but first, let’s quickly refresh ourselves on the journey so far. Our journey through the book of Ruth began with Naomi, a woman who once felt utterly forsaken. She had known the fullness of family, cherished a life blessed by God, and experienced the richness of joy. Yet, in a series of devastating losses, all of it was stripped away. Her husband was taken, her sons were taken, and her future felt as if it had vanished before her eyes. Naomi returned to Bethlehem not just as a widow but feeling utterly emptied. She was so broken that she chose to renameherself “Mara,” meaning “bitter.” She cried, “I went away full, and the LORD has brought me back empty” (Ruth 1:21, ESV). Can you feel the weight of her words? Naomi believed her story had come to a bitter end, that God had written her final chapter in grief and sorrow. But God had other plans.

Then, as Ruth 2 unfolded, a glimmer of light emerged. In the ashes of Naomi’s despair, a spark of hope was rekindled.She witnessed the kindness of Boaz, the way he went out of his way to protect Ruth, a foreigner gleaning in his fields. And through Boaz’s compassion, Naomi began to see a hint of God’s hand still at work. Could it be? Could God still be present, even in her grief? Could He have a purpose beyond her pain? This renewed hope compelled Naomi to act with boldness and vision, to step forward in faith and craft a plan.

Now, as we look into Ruth chapter 3, Naomi’s heart has shifted from bitterness to a rekindled hope, and she hatches a plan for Ruth to present herself to Boaz, hoping that he would become her family’s redeemer.

Scripture Reading:

Ruth 3:1-18 ESV

Opening Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude for Your unfailing love and grace. As we reflect on the story of Naomi and Ruth, we are reminded of Your hand at work in even the most painful moments of life. Lord, we ask that You open our hearts and minds to see the beauty of Your redemptive plan. Just as You rekindled hope in Naomi’s life and guided Ruth in faith, we ask that You stir our hearts to trust in Your providence. Help us to see that You are always working for our good, even when the way forward seems unclear. May we, like Ruth, walk in obedience and humility, trusting in the redeeming love of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Be present with us now as we study Your Word, and may Your Spirit lead us into deeper understanding and faith. In Jesus’ precious name, we pray. Amen.

Naomi’s Plan: Rekindling Hope (Ruth 3:1-7)

Our account this morning begins with Naomi turning to Ruth, saying, “My daughter, should I not seek rest for you, that it may be well with you?” (Ruth 3:1, ESV). Imagine it: a woman who thought her story was over, now daring to hope again, not just for herself but for her beloved Ruth. Naomi’s heart of faith reaches out, not in wishful thinking, but in a powerful conviction that God is moving. This is the kind of hope that springs from faith, the kind that believes God is still present, still faithful, even when we can barely see it.

Naomi instructs Ruth to “wash . . . anoint yourself . . . and put on your cloak” (Ruth 3:3, ESV). These actions might seem ordinary, but they carry deep cultural meaning. Much like David, who rose from fasting and anointed himself after the loss of his child, Ruth’s preparation marks the end of her mourning (2 Sam. 12:20). She is setting aside the garments of her past sorrows and preparing herself as a potential bride. It is a symbolic gesture that signals she is ready to step into the future God may have for her.

And Naomi knows the importance of timing. She instructs Ruth to wait until Boaz has finished eating and drinking, his heart full and at peace after the harvest (Ruth 3:7, ESV). This isn’t manipulation; it’s wisdom. Scripture tells us of the beauty of a heart satisfied in God’s blessings, as in Psalm 4:7, “You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound.” Boaz, at that moment of satisfaction, would be in the perfect frame of mind to consider his own future and the potential future that could include Ruth.

Naomi tells Ruth to “uncover his feet and lie down” (Ruth 3:4, ESV), an act that might seem strange to us, but in ancient Hebrew tradition, it was a humble request for protection. Ruth’s act is a silent yet powerful proposal, asking Boaz to fulfill his role as kinsman-redeemer, to cover her with his care and protection. It is a beautiful picture of our own need for God’s covering, a reminder that we, too, can approach Him with our needs and vulnerabilities, trusting in His faithfulness.

Some modern commentators have suggested that “uncovering his feet” hints at something suggestive, but there is no evidence for this in the text. Instead, the term “feet” (literally, margelot, meaning “place of his feet”) signifies a place of honor and respect, not impropriety. This is not a euphemism. Ruth’s purity and Boaz’s integrity are clear, bearing witness to the holiness of their intentions. I personally find this interpretation to be especially egregious because, to suggest that Ruth and Boaz did anything untoward would not only undermine their character but also undermine the entire point of the book of Ruth. 

Ruth listened to Naomi’s instructions and answers, “All that you say I will do” (Ruth 3:5, ESV). Think of the faith this requires! Ruth, a Moabite and an impoverished widow, goes to the threshing floor and waits at Boaz’s feet. What if Boaz misunderstood her motivations? What if he rejected her or publicly shamed her for insinuating that a man of his reputation and status would ever consider taking a poor, foreign widow like Ruth as a bride? After all, she had nothing to offer Boaz but her love. What if Boaz took offense and told her not to return again to his fields, thus cutting her off from her source of living and the only kindness she has ever known in this land? All of these were possible, and yet she moves forward, believing that Boaz, a man of integrity, will respond with honor and grace. Her humility and obedience exemplify the courage God calls us to a courage that says, “I trust You, Lord,” even when the path is unclear.

Here we find a hope that is active, a hope that reaches out in faith. Naomi and Ruth don’t sit idly, waiting for their circumstances to change; they step forward, trusting God to work in ways they cannot fully understand. This is the kind of hope that moves mountains, the hope that believes God is present, even in the shadows. It’s a hope that is daring enough to dream of a future where bitterness is transformed into blessing.

And what about us? How often do we feel paralyzed by grief, our hearts weighed down by bitterness or disappointment? Maybe you’ve experienced the kind of pain Naomi endured, the loss of loved ones, the sense that God’s favor has left you. But Naomi and Ruth’s story reminds us that even when our hearts feel empty, God is at work. Isaiah 61:3 tells us that God will “grant to those who mourn in Zion . . . a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit.” God’s plans for us go beyond our present pain.

Naomi and Ruth show us a hope that is not passive but deeply rooted in faith. They do not sit on the sidelines waiting for life to change; they act courageously, trusting that God is still leading them. This is the kind of hope that takes us from despair to purpose, the kind that believes God is writing a story of redemption even in our darkest hours.

Boaz’s Response: Love and Integrity (Ruth 3:8-14)

In verse eight, we find Boaz sleeping soundly after a long day on the threshing floor, waking to find Ruth lying at his feet. Startled, he’s immediately faced with a situation that could be easily misunderstood. But Boaz recognizes Ruth, and as a result, he recognizes the purity of her actions and her devotion to her family, and he speaks words that reveal his respect for her character: “May you be blessed by the LORD, my daughter. You have made this last kindness greater than the first in that you have not gone after young men, whether poor or rich” (Ruth 3:10, ESV).

We can conclude from Boaz’ words that Ruth was an attractive young woman. Boaz believes that could have gone after a younger, more attractive, and possibly even a wealthier man as a  redeemer, but instead she approaches Boaz, an older man, but a man with a deep sense of godly character because she valued his integrity and kindness above all. 

Notice that Boaz’s praise of Ruth’s “kindness” uses the Hebrew word hesed, which again is not the word for everyday kindness but speaks to covenant love, loyalty, and selflessness. Ruth’s heart was not just committed to meeting her own needs or desires; it was committed to doing right by Naomi, to honoring God’s law, and to selfless love and loyalty.

And Boaz’s admiration for her runs even deeper. He reassures her, saying, “Do not fear. I will do for you all that you ask, for all my fellow townsmen know that you are a worthy woman” (Ruth 3:11, ESV). Boaz sees Ruth not through the lens of social status, nationality, or wealth but as a woman of virtue and strength. By calling her a “worthy woman,” he uses a term that echoes Proverbs 31, where the noble woman is described as “more precious than jewels” (Proverbs 31:10, ESV). Boaz sees Ruth for who she is, a woman of godly character, even though she is a foreigner and a widow. And he chooses to honor her in this quiet, private moment.

But there’s even more to this exchange. Ruth’s request that Boaz “spread the corner of [his] garment over [her]” is rich in meaning. In Hebrew, the word for “garment” is the same as “wings.” Ruth asks Boaz not only to marry her but also to take her under his protection. This is a callback to something Boaz said in their first encounter. It’s as if she’s asking Boaz to be the human expression of the refuge she has already sought under the wings of God. Remember, Boaz himself had blessed her earlier, saying, “The LORD repay you . . . under whose wings you have come to take refuge” (Ruth 2:12, ESV).

Note that Boaz, who could have easily taken advantage of this moment, does something powerful and beautiful. Here they are, alone on the threshing floor in the middle of the night, with no one else in sight. Ruth was in a desperate position ofneed, and Boaz held all the power here.  Boaz not only agreed to Ruth’s request but also ensured that their actions remained honorable. He says, “Let it not be known that the woman came to the threshing floor” (Ruth 3:14, ESV). He protects her reputation. This is a love that goes beyond fleeting attraction; it’s a love that respects, safeguards, and honors.

Their restraint teaches us something vital. In a world that often chases after instant gratification, Ruth and Boaz remind us that true love values patience and purity. They remind us that love is more than passion; it’s wisdom, it’s respect, it’s self-control. 

Love like this isn’t rooted in self-interest or emotion alone; it’s rooted in godly character. Song of Solomon tells us, “Many waters cannot quench love, neither can floods drown it” (Song of Solomon 8:7, ESV). This is the kind of love that Ruth and Boaz demonstrate, a love that is unquenchable because it is not founded just on physical attraction but on godly commitment and character.

What Ruth and Boaz teach us is that in relationships, sexual integrity, and wisdom are not limitations; they are foundations. By choosing purity, they lay the groundwork for a relationship that will bless not only them but future generations. They choose to let their love grow under God’s guidance rather than rushing into an impulsive decision. Their restraint and integrity become the bedrock of a marriage that will one day be part of the very lineage of Jesus Christ. They demonstrate a love that transcends their own story and plays a role in God’s plan for redemption.

Boaz’s Provision for Ruth and Naomi (Ruth 3:15-17)

As Ruth prepares to leave, Boaz’s actions speak volumes. Rather than send her off with only kind words, he gives her six measures of barley, a gift both abundant and symbolic. “Do not go back to your mother-in-law empty-handed,” he tells her (Ruth 3:17, ESV). This gift not only meets their immediate needs but also serves as a tangible pledge of Boaz’s commitment to redeem them fully. Just as Boaz ensures Ruth will not return empty, God promises to provide abundantly for His people. Jesus taught us to trust in the Father’s provision, saying, “Look at the birds of the air… your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” (Matthew 6:26, ESV). Boaz’s gift reflects the heart of God, who “will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19, ESV).

Boaz’s generosity foreshadows Christ, our ultimate redeemer, who not only provides for our daily needs but redeems us fully. Just as the barley served as a pledge, the Holy Spirit is our pledge of God’s unbreakable promise, sealing us for salvation (Ephesians 1:13-14, ESV). Through Boaz’s care for Ruth, we glimpse Christ’s love, a love that does not leave us empty but fills us with His Spirit, His righteousness, and His peace.

Now imagine Naomi’s response when Ruth returns, not only with the generous gift of barley but also with Boaz’s promise to act on their behalf. This woman who had once renamed herself “bitter” now has a reason for hope. There was just one problem.  Although he was willing to redeem Ruth, Boaz recognized that, by law, a closer kinsman-redeemer held the first right to do so. Respecting both God’s law and Ruth’s honor, Boaz pledged to settle the matter with this nearer relative swiftly and transparently. His promise demonstrated a deep commitment to doing things the right way, ensuring Ruth’s redemption with full integrity. Resolving the claim of this nearer redeemer was now the only remaining obstacle between Ruth and Boaz’s union.

I’m sure the wait was agonizing, but seeing this, Naomi’s once-heavy heart lifted with hope. She told Ruth, “Wait, my daughter, until you learn how the matter turns out, for the man will not rest but will settle the matter today” (Ruth 3:18, ESV). Her despair began to transform, replaced by trust in Boaz’s integrity and God’s provision. While waiting for good things can be daunging, I am reminded of the prophet Isaiah’s word which reminds us that, “they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength” (Isaiah 40:31, ESV). Like Naomi, we are invited to release our bitterness and wait with confident hope, trusting that God will act faithfully on our behalf.

Let us learn from Ruth and Boaz, from Naomi’s transformation, and from the foreshadowing of our own redeemer. May we approach Christ confidently, trusting that He will fill our empty hands and hearts, meet every need, and never leave us. As we wait for His promises to unfold, let us rest in His faithfulness, knowing that His provision, like Boaz’s, is already on its way.

Conclusion:

Ultimately, the story of Ruth and Boaz calls each of us to seek refuge under the wings of our redeemer. Just as Ruth placed her trust in Boaz, we are invited to place our trust in Jesus. Consider the depths of Ruth’s vulnerability and her willingness to trust. She risked everything, approaching Boaz as her redeemer, trusting that he would respond with compassion and faithfulness. In the same way, Jesus stands ready to embrace us and redeem us fully if we come to Him. Are we not called to that same act of trust? Whatever burdens we carry, guilt that weighs heavy, shame that lingers, grief that overwhelms, Jesus is our refuge, the One who offers shelter from every storm.

Jesus Himself calls to us, saying, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28, ESV). Do you hear that? He will give us rest. Just as Boaz did not leave Ruth empty, Christ will not leave us empty. He fills our lives with His Spirit, bestowing hope and a secure future, something only He can provide. His redemption is not partial or temporary; it is complete, His love unchanging, and His promises everlasting.

The question is, will we take refuge under the wings of Christ, our Redeemer? Just as Ruth found hope, protection, and a future under Boaz’s care, we are invited to find peace and purpose in Jesus’ embrace. Let us trust in Him, not as a fleeting thought, but with the full weight of our lives, for He is faithful, compassionate, and ever-present. Scripture assures us, “We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul” (Hebrews 6:19, ESV). Christ is our unshakable anchor, holding us steady through every trial.

In the story of Ruth and Boaz, we glimpse a love that redeems, a hope that sustains, and a faith that anchors us firmly in God’s promises. So let us take refuge in Christ, our ultimate redeemer. May His love transform every part of our lives, filling our emptiness, quieting our fears, and leading us into a future secure in His hands. Amen.

Closing Prayer:

Gracious God, we thank You for the rich truths revealed in the story of Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz. Through this, we have seen a glimpse of Your incredible love for us and the faithfulness of our Redeemer, Jesus Christ. Lord, we are reminded that just as Boaz did not rest until Ruth’s redemption was secured, Christ will not rest until His redemptive work in us is complete. We rejoice in the assurance that we are held securely in Your hands, that our inheritance in Christ is sure, and that You are faithful to the end. Help us to walk in faith and humility, living lives that reflect the grace and love You have so freely given. May we be a people who trust in Your promises and rest in Your provision, knowing that we belong to You forever. We give You all the honor, glory, and praise. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

---

Daily Devotions: 

On Sunday, we explored the story of Naomi’s bold plan in Ruth 3:1-7, a turning point where hope is rekindled in the lives of Naomi and Ruth. Naomi, once bitter and despairing, steps forward in faith, crafting a plan to seek redemption and security for Ruth through Boaz, their kinsman-redeemer. Ruth’s courageous obedience, symbolized by her preparation and humble act of uncovering Boaz’s feet, reminds us of our own need to trust in God’s covering and provision. Despite the risks, Ruth steps forward, believing in Boaz’s integrity and God’s faithfulness. In this, we see a picture of active faith, hope that moves us to trust God’s plan, even when the future is uncertain. Ultimately, this story points us to Christ, our ultimate redeemer, who offers us refuge, provision, and a love that transforms our emptiness into blessing. May we, like Ruth, trust in the faithfulness of our redeemer and find rest under His wings.

Monday: A Spark of Hope  

Scripture Reading: 

Ruth 3:1-2  

Devotional:  

Naomi, once filled with grief and bitterness, begins to see a glimmer of hope. In Ruth 3:1-2, she expresses a desire to seek “rest” for Ruth, a future marked by security and provision. Naomi’s shift from despair to hope reminds us of God’s quiet work in our lives, even when we cannot see it. The kindness of Boaz in the previous chapter stirred something in Naomi’s heart, a realization that God’s hand had not abandoned her, even in her darkest moments.  

This transition is profound. Naomi believed her story was over, but God had other plans. Through Boaz’s compassion,Naomi began to see the possibility of a new chapter. Her hope compels her to act in faith, guiding Ruth to prepare for the next step in God’s unfolding plan. Similarly, we are often called to respond to God’s whispers of hope, trusting that He is working behind the scenes.  

In seasons of despair, it’s easy to feel forgotten, but Naomi’s story reminds us that God’s plans are not derailed by our grief. Even when the way forward seems unclear, He is writing a story of redemption for us. Let this truth renew your hope today, God is always at work, often in ways we cannot yet see.  

Reflection Questions:  

1. Can you think of a time when hope felt rekindled in your life after a season of despair?  

2. How can Naomi’s shift from bitterness to hope inspire you to trust God in difficult times?  

Prayer:  

Lord, thank You for being the God of hope, even when life feels overwhelming. Teach us to trust in Your timing and to see the glimmers of Your work in our lives. Help us move forward in faith, just as Naomi did. Amen.  

Tuesday: Faith in Action  

Scripture Reading: 

Ruth 3:3-4  

Devotional:  

Naomi instructs Ruth to prepare herself: “Wash . . . anoint yourself . . . and put on your cloak” (Ruth 3:3). These simple actions carry profound meaning. By preparing in this way, Ruth signals the end of her mourning and her readiness for what lies ahead. Her actions are an act of faith, a step into the future God has for her.  

Ruth doesn’t cling to the past but embraces the hope of redemption. Her actions echo the faith we are called to have, letting go of old sorrows and stepping forward, trusting God to provide. Her obedience reflects a heart willing to follow God’s leading, even when the outcome is uncertain.  

How often do we hold back, hesitant to act because the future feels unclear? Ruth reminds us that faith is not passive; it’s active and trusting. By preparing her heart and taking bold steps, Ruth demonstrates that trusting God often requires us to step out of our comfort zones, believing that He will meet us there.  

Reflection Questions:  

1. What steps might God be calling you to take in faith today?  

2. How does Ruth’s preparation challenge you to trust God’s plan for your life?  

Prayer:  

Father, help us to take bold steps of faith, trusting that You are leading us. Teach us to let go of the past and embrace the future You have planned for us. Strengthen our hearts to act with courage and obedience. Amen.  

Wednesday: A Bold Request  

Scripture Reading: 

Ruth 3:9  

Devotional:  

When Ruth says to Boaz, “Spread your wings over your servant, for you are a redeemer” (Ruth 3:9, ESV), she makes a bold and vulnerable request. Ruth approaches Boaz not just with a need for provision but with a deep trust in his character. This request signifies her trust in Boaz’s ability and willingness to redeem her, reflecting our need to trust God as our ultimate redeemer.  

Ruth’s courage speaks to us. She risked rejection, misunderstanding, or even shame, yet she stepped forward with humility and faith. In the same way, approaching God with our deepest needs requires vulnerability and trust. But just as Boaz responded to Ruth with kindness and protection, God meets our needs with grace and love.  

This moment also foreshadows the redemption we find in Jesus Christ. Just as Ruth sought Boaz’s protection, we are invited to take refuge under the wings of our redeemer. He welcomes us with open arms, offering grace, security, and hope.  

Reflection Questions:  

1. What does it mean to take refuge under God’s wings in your life?  

2. How can Ruth’s boldness inspire you to bring your needs to God?  

Prayer:  

Redeemer, we come to You with open hearts, seeking refuge under Your wings. Help us to trust You with our needs and to approach You with boldness and faith, knowing You are faithful. Amen.  

Thursday: Integrity and Honor  

Scripture Reading: 

Ruth 3:10-11  

Devotional:  

Boaz’s response to Ruth is one of integrity and honor. Instead of taking advantage of Ruth’s vulnerable position, he praises her character and promises to act in her best interest. He sees her as a “worthy woman” (Ruth 3:11), valuing her faithfulness and loyalty. Boaz models the godly love that respects, protects, and honors others.  

This moment challenges us to consider how we approach relationships. True love, as demonstrated by Boaz, is rooted in godly character, not selfish desire. It seeks the best for others and honors God in every decision. His actions reflect Christ’s love for us, a love that protects and provides without condition.  

As we navigate relationships, may we strive to embody the same integrity and honor. Let Boaz’s example remind us that love rooted in faithfulness and respect builds a foundation for lasting blessing and joy.  

Reflection Questions:  

1. How does Boaz’s example challenge you in your relationships?  

2. In what ways can you demonstrate godly love and integrity in your interactions with others?  

Prayer:  

Lord, teach us to love with integrity and honor. Help us to reflect Your faithfulness in our relationships, seeking to protect and uplift others. May our actions always point to Your perfect love. Amen.  

Friday: A Generous Provision  

Scripture Reading: 

Ruth 3:15-17  

Devotional:  

Boaz sends Ruth home with an abundant gift of barley, ensuring she does not return to Naomi empty-handed. His generosity reflects the heart of God, who meets our needs abundantly and provides more than we could ask or imagine. Boaz’s gift is not just provision; it is a pledge of his commitment to Ruth and Naomi’s redemption.  

God’s provision in our lives is often like Boaz’s gift, unexpected, generous, and deeply reassuring. He provides not only for our material needs but also for our spiritual ones. Through Christ, we receive the ultimate gift of redemption, a pledge sealed by the Holy Spirit.  

When we feel empty or uncertain, we can trust that God’s provision is on its way. He promises to fill our hearts and lives with His peace, hope, and love. Like Naomi, let us move from bitterness to trust, knowing that God is faithful to provide.  

Reflection Questions:  

1. How has God provided for you in unexpected ways?  

2. What does Boaz’s generosity teach you about God’s heart for His people?  

Prayer:  

Father, thank You for Your abundant provision in our lives. Help us to trust in Your faithfulness and to see Your hand at work, even in challenging times. Fill our hearts with gratitude for Your endless love. Amen.  

Saturday: Waiting with Hope  

Scripture Reading: 

Ruth 3:18  

Devotional:  

Naomi’s final words to Ruth in this chapter are a call to patience: “Wait, my daughter, until you learn how the matter turns out” (Ruth 3:18). Waiting is never easy, especially when so much is at stake, but Naomi’s confidence in Boaz reflects a deeper trust in God’s faithfulness.  

Waiting on God requires surrender and faith. It challenges us to release control and trust that He is working all things for our good, even when we cannot see the outcome. Naomi’s transformation from bitterness to hope reminds us that waiting is not passive, it’s active trust in God’s promises.  

As we wait on God’s timing in our lives, let us remember that He is never late. He works with perfect precision, ensuring that His plans unfold exactly as they should. Like Naomi, let us rest in His faithfulness, knowing that He will never fail us.  

Reflection Questions:  

1. What is an area of your life where you need to wait on God’s timing?  

2. How can Naomi’s transformation encourage you to trust in God’s faithfulness?  

Prayer:  

Lord, help us to wait with patience and trust, knowing that Your timing is perfect. Teach us to rest in Your faithfulness and to find hope in Your promises. Strengthen our hearts as we surrender to Your plans. Amen.