Ruth 2:12

The Lord recompense thy work, and a full reward be given thee of the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings thou art come to trust.

Ruth 2:12 (KJV)

Context

The book of Ruth is set during the time of the judges in Israel. Ruth, a Moabite woman, leaves her homeland to stay with her mother-in-law, Naomi. In Ruth 2, she goes to glean in the fields and comes to the field of Boaz, a relative of her deceased husband’s family. Boaz has already shown her kindness, and in this verse he pronounces a blessing upon her.

Meaning

Boaz prays that the Lord will recompense Ruth’s work and give her a full reward. The word “recompense” means to repay or reward. Ruth’s work was gleaning grain to provide for herself and Naomi. Her labour was diligent and selfless. Boaz asks God to repay her fully. The phrase “under whose wings thou art come to trust” is a picture of a bird sheltering its young. It means Ruth has found safety and protection under God’s care. She chose to trust the God of Israel, even though she was not born an Israelite.

Biblical connections

The imagery of wings appears elsewhere in Scripture. Psalm 91:4 describes God’s faithfulness as a shield and buckler, and Matthew 23:37 speaks of gathering people as a hen gathers her chicks. These passages reinforce the theme of divine protection. Ruth’s trust and Boaz’s blessing also point forward to the broader story. Ruth becomes part of the lineage of King David and ultimately of Jesus Christ. This shows that God’s reward can extend far beyond the present moment.

Application

This verse encourages us to trust in God’s care and protection, just as Ruth did. When we put our faith in God and align our lives with His will, He will reward our efforts. The reward may not always be immediate or tangible. It can come as spiritual blessings, growth, and a closer relationship with God. Ruth’s encounter with Boaz was not mere coincidence. It was God’s providence at work. Through her work and trust, she found favour in Boaz’s eyes. God orchestrates events in our lives, even when we cannot see it, to fulfil His purposes and bless us in unexpected ways.

Reflection

Ruth 2:12 teaches us about trust in God’s providence, the principle of recompense and reward, and the assurance that God is faithful to those who seek Him. It encourages us to put our faith into action, knowing that God sees our efforts and will bless us according to His perfect plan. Like Ruth, we can rest under the wings of the Lord God of Israel, confident that He who sees our work will not forget it.