As we come to the final chapter of Ruth’s story, I look with great anticipation to the truly stellar conclusion! I say this with utmost confidence, as I already know how it ends. Because of this, it would be tempting for me to simply jump to the finish and omit the final steps leading to Ruth’s ultimate blessing and reward.

At the same time, I recognize the tremendous value in rehearsing every detail of Ruth’s journey. You see, it was each of her courageous steps working together with God’s sovereign plan that eventually led to her grand finale. And with this in mind, we’ll pick up where we left off last week.

Boaz Acts

In keeping with Naomi’s final words to Ruth, “The man won’t rest until he has settled things”, Boaz went immediately to the town gate to meet with the man closer in line as a family redeemer. No sooner had he taken a seat at the town gate, when this man just happened to walk by!

Once again as in prior times in this story, we observe what appears to be happenstance. However, this was no coincidence. Instead, this was most certainly God’s providence. Whether or not Boaz realized this at the time, we’ll never know. Regardless, he seized the opportunity, called out to the man and invited him to sit and talk, to which the man agreed. Boaz then wisely invited ten town leaders to serve as witnesses to his conversation.

Boaz’ Appeal

Boaz wasted no time with small talk. Instead, he went straight away with his prepared speech, “You know Naomi, who came back from Moab. [Well] She is selling the land that belonged to our relative Elimelech. [Anyway,] I thought I should speak to you about it so that you can redeem it if you wish. If you want the land, then buy it here in the presence of these witnesses. But if you don’t want it, let me know right away, because I am next in line to redeem it after you.”

“All right, I’ll redeem it, [the man said.]”

It appears Boaz was purposeful in his delay of telling the man the full requirement of acquiring the land. Perhaps if he would have provided all the details at once the man would have agreed without considering the full weight of his decision.

Boaz continued, “[You do realize however that], your purchase of the land from Naomi also requires that you marry Ruth…[so] she can have children to carry on her husband’s name and keep the land in the family.”

To which the man replied, [Ah, well I see. In that case] “I can’t redeem it…as this might endanger my own estate. [You are free to redeem the land yourself as] I cannot…”

Finalizing the Agreement

To finalize the agreement, Boaz and the man exchanged sandals, a common practice in ancient Israel for transferring a right of purchase. And with that the deal was sealed. Boaz then spoke to the elders and the crowd that had gathered saying, “[You are witnesses that] I have bought from Naomi all the property of Elimelech, Chilion, and Mahlon. And with the land I have acquired Ruth the Moabite to be my wife…”

[Then] the elders and all the people…replied, “We are witnesses! May the Lord make [Ruth] like Rachel and Leah, from whom all the nation of Israel descended! May you prosper in Ephrathah and be famous in Bethlehem. And may the Lord give you [many] descendants…”

The Grand Finale

Ruth’s story ends magnificently. She married Boaz. Together they had a son and named him Obed. Naomi also, following much loss in her life, was abundantly blessed as a grandmother! This is the final act of Ruth, Naomi and Boaz’ story.

Yet the end of their story would continue to impact many generations to come and into eternity. You see, eventually Obed became the father of Jesse. And Jesse became the father of King David. And fourteen generations following the death of King David, another King was born. The one true and only King, King Jesus the Messiah, the Savior of the world!

Life Lessons

At the conclusion of Ruth’s story, we are reminded that courageous steps are required to move positively forward, especially in the difficult seasons of life.

Next, we learn that God is sovereign over our steps, carefully orchestrating and directing them.

Further, we learn that God rewards faithfulness, integrity, trust and obedience.

Additionally, we are reminded that steps require time, and sometimes, quite often to be honest, waiting and patience are required to recognize the fulfillment of our steps.

And finally, we are reminded that our steps are not only about us. Instead, each courageous step taken has the grand potential of impacting the lives of many for their benefit, and for God’s greater, perfect and eternal purpose.

Be on the lookout early next week for my latest monthly newsletter which includes information on November’s upcoming series of posts on gratitude!

Pray

Holy Father, thank you for the hope and encouragement I receive as I study the faith stories of real people with real struggles who trusted you despite their trials and challenges. Through the inspiring story of Ruth, I am reminded that you are sovereign over every detail of my life—directing my steps, and leading me in your ways, and for your greater purpose. Help me, like Ruth to step courageously forward in every season, especially the difficult ones, knowing you are with me, for me and love me. Amen

 

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Community Question of the Week

In what specific ways does the grand finale of Ruth’s story inspire you to take courageous steps forward in your own journey?

Encourage others with your response HERE!