“Then she fell on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, and said unto him, Why have I found grace in thine eyes, that thou shouldest take knowledge of me, seeing I am a stranger?”
Context:The Book of Ruth is a beautiful narrative set during the time of the judges in Israel. It tells the story of a Moabite woman named Ruth who, after her husband’s death, accompanies her mother-in-law, Naomi, back to Bethlehem. In Bethlehem, Ruth gleans in the fields of Boaz, a wealthy relative of Naomi. Ruth 2:10 occurs in the encounter between Ruth and Boaz.
Gratitude and Humility:In this verse, Ruth expresses her deep gratitude and humility towards Boaz. Falling on her face and bowing to the ground were gestures of reverence and respect. Ruth’s response reveals her surprise and awe at Boaz’s kindness and favour towards her, a foreigner and stranger in Bethlehem. She wonders why she has found such grace in his eyes.
Divine Providence:Ruth’s astonishment at Boaz’s favour reflects the overarching theme of divine providence in the book. Throughout the narrative, it becomes evident that God is at work behind the scenes, orchestrating events for the welfare of His people. Ruth’s encounter with Boaz is no exception. It is through Boaz’s intervention and kindness that Ruth finds provision and protection.
God’s Inclusion of the Gentiles:Ruth’s status as a Moabite, a foreigner, is significant. The people of Moab were generally seen as outsiders and were not always well-regarded by the Israelites. Yet, Ruth’s story demonstrates God’s inclusiveness and His willingness to extend His grace to people from all nations. Ruth, as a Gentile, becomes an important figure in the lineage of King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ.
Application:Ruth’s response to Boaz teaches us important lessons. It reminds us to approach God and others with gratitude and humility. Like Ruth, we should recognise that any favour or blessing we receive is ultimately a result of God’s grace. It also encourages us to trust in God’s providential care, even in difficult and uncertain times. Ruth’s story shows that God can bring unexpected blessings and open doors for us when we least expect it.
In summary, Ruth 2:10 highlights Ruth’s humble gratitude and amazement at Boaz’s favour. It also underscores the themes of divine providence and God’s inclusion of the Gentiles. This verse challenges us to approach God and others with humility, trust in God’s providence, and remain open to the unexpected ways in which God may work in our lives.
