“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.”
Context:The book of Ruth is set during the time of the judges in Israel and tells the story of Ruth, a Moabite woman, who becomes part of the lineage of King David and ultimately Jesus Christ. In Ruth 2, Ruth goes to glean in the fields, and she happens to find herself in the field of Boaz, a relative of her deceased husband’s family.
Trusting in God’s Protection:The verse begins by acknowledging that Ruth has sought refuge under the wings of the Lord God of Israel. This imagery reflects the idea of finding shelter, protection, and security under God’s loving care. Ruth had chosen to leave her homeland and put her trust in the God of Israel, seeking refuge in Him. This demonstrates her faith and reliance on God’s guidance and provision.
Recompense and Reward:The verse continues by stating that the Lord will recompense or repay Ruth’s work and grant her a full reward. This emphasizes the principle of divine justice and God’s faithfulness in rewarding those who diligently seek Him and follow His ways. Ruth’s commitment to gleaning in the field to provide for herself and her mother-in-law, Naomi, demonstrated her hard work and dedication.
Spiritual Application:This verse encourages us to trust in God’s care and protection, just as Ruth did. It reminds us that when we put our faith in God and align our lives with His will, He will reward our efforts. This reward may not always be immediate or tangible, but it can come in the form of spiritual blessings, growth, and a closer relationship with God.
God’s Providence:Ruth’s encounter with Boaz in the field was not merely a coincidence but a demonstration of God’s providence. It was through her work and trust in God that she found favour in Boaz’s eyes. This story serves as a reminder that God orchestrates events in our lives, even when we cannot see it, to fulfil His purposes and bless us in unexpected ways.
Overall, Ruth 2:12 teaches us about the importance of 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.
