"And Ruth the Moabitess said unto Naomi, Let me now go to the field, and glean ears of corn after him in whose sight I shall find grace. And she said unto her, Go, my daughter."
Context:The book of Ruth is a beautiful narrative found in the Old Testament. It tells the story of Ruth, a Moabite woman, who demonstrates great loyalty and faithfulness to her mother-in-law Naomi. Ruth’s journey ultimately leads to her marriage with Boaz, a prominent man from Bethlehem, and she becomes a key figure in the lineage of King David and ultimately Jesus Christ.
The Faithfulness of Ruth:Ruth was a Moabite woman who had married into an Israelite family. After her husband’s death, she chose to stay with Naomi, her mother-in-law, displaying remarkable loyalty. In Ruth 2:2, we see Ruth taking the initiative to provide for herself and Naomi. She asks Naomi’s permission to go to the fields to gather leftover grain, a practice allowed by the law of Moses to support the poor and needy (Leviticus 19:9-10, Deuteronomy 24:19-22). Ruth’s faithfulness and determination are evident as she seeks to find favor in the eyes of someone who will allow her to glean in their field.
The Providence of God:The book of Ruth is a beautiful illustration of God’s providence and His care for His people. In Ruth 2:2, we see Ruth expressing her desire to find grace or favor in the sight of someone who owns a field. Little did Ruth know that God was orchestrating her steps, leading her to the field of Boaz, who would become a significant part of her life and a kinsman-redeemer to her. This highlights the truth that even in our ordinary, everyday circumstances, God is at work, guiding and directing our paths for His purposes.
Application to our Lives:The story of Ruth and her actions in Ruth 2:2 encourage us to demonstrate loyalty, faithfulness, and initiative in our relationships and daily lives. Like Ruth, we can trust in God’s providence and rely on His guidance. We should also remember that acts of kindness and generosity, such as gleaning in the fields, can make a significant impact on the lives of others. Ruth’s humility and willingness to work diligently in the field of Boaz are qualities we can emulate as we seek to serve others and trust in God’s provision.
In summary, Ruth 2:2 showcases Ruth’s faithfulness, her desire to find favor, and her proactive approach to providing for herself and Naomi. It also highlights God’s providential guidance in our lives and reminds us to be faithful, diligent, and trusting in our relationships and daily endeavors.
