Podcasts about when boaz

Friday in the Seventh Week After Epiphany Opening Words:I will give you as a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth. Isaiah 49:6b Confession:Let us humbly confess our sins unto Almighty God.Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen.  Almighty God have mercy on you, forgive you all your sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen you in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep you in eternal life. Amen.   The InvitatoryLord, open our lips. And our mouth shall proclaim your praise.Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen. Alleluia. Psalm 95:1–7The Lord has shown forth his glory: Come let us adore him.Come, let us sing to the Lord; * let us shout for joy to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving * and raise a loud shout to him with psalms. For the Lord is a great God, * and a great King above all gods.In his hand are the caverns of the earth, * and the heights of the hills are his also. The sea is his, for he made it, * and his hands have molded the dry land.Come, let us bow down, and bend the knee, * and kneel before the Lord our Maker. For he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture and the sheep of his hand. * Oh, that today you would hearken to his voice!The Lord has shown forth his glory: Come let us adore him. The PsalterPsalm 140Deliver me, O Lord, from evildoers; *protect me from the violent,Who devise evil in their hearts *and stir up strife all day long.They have sharpened their tongues like a serpent; *adder's poison is under their lips.Keep me, O Lord, from the hands of the wicked; *protect me from the violent,who are determined to trip me up.The proud have hidden a snare for meand stretched out a net of cords; *they have set traps for me along the path.I have said to the Lord, “You are my God; *listen, O Lord, to my supplication.O Lord God, the strength of my salvation, *you have covered my head in the day of battle.Do not grant the desires of the wicked, O Lord, *nor let their evil plans prosper.Let not those who surround me lift up their heads; *let the evil of their lips overwhelm them.Let hot burning coals fall upon them; *let them be cast into the mire, never to rise up again.”A slanderer shall not be established on the earth, *and evil shall hunt down the lawless.I know that the Lord will maintain the cause of the poor *and render justice to the needy.Surely, the righteous will give thanks to your Name, *and the upright shall continue in your sight.Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen. LessonsRuth 3:1-18Naomi her mother-in-law said to her, "My daughter, I need to seek some security for you, so that it may be well with you. Now here is our kinsman Boaz, with whose young women you have been working. See, he is winnowing barley tonight at the threshing floor. Now wash and anoint yourself, and put on your best clothes and go down to the threshing floor; but do not make yourself known to the man until he has finished eating and drinking. When he lies down, observe the place where he lies; then, go and uncover his feet and lie down; and he will tell you what to do." She said to her, "All that you tell me I will do." So she went down to the threshing floor and did just as her mother-in-law had instructed her. When Boaz had eaten and drunk, and he was in a contented mood, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain. Then she came stealthily and uncovered his feet, and lay down. At midnight the man was startled, and turned over, and there, lying at his feet, was a woman! He said, "Who are you?" And she answered, "I am Ruth, your servant; spread your cloak over your servant, for you are next-of-kin." He said, "May you be blessed by the Lord, my daughter; this last instance of your loyalty is better than the first; you have not gone after young men, whether poor or rich. And now, my daughter, do not be afraid, I will do for you all that you ask, for all the assembly of my people know that you are a worthy woman. But now, though it is true that I am a near kinsman, there is another kinsman more closely related than I. Remain this night, and in the morning, if he will act as next-of-kin for you, good; let him do it. If he is not willing to act as next-of-kin for you, then, as the Lord lives, I will act as next-of-kin for you. Lie down until the morning." So she lay at his feet until morning, but got up before one person could recognize another; for he said, "It must not be known that the woman came to the threshing floor." Then he said, "Bring the cloak you are wearing and hold it out." So she held it, and he measured out six measures of barley, and put it on her back; then he went into the city. She came to her mother-in-law, who said, "How did things go with you, my daughter?" Then she told her all that the man had done for her, saying, "He gave me these six measures of barley, for he said, 'Do not go back to your mother-in-law empty-handed.'" She replied, "Wait, my daughter, until you learn how the matter turns out, for the man will not rest, but will settle the matter today."The Word of the Lord. Thanks Be To God. Te Deum laudamusYou are God: we praise you;You are the Lord; we acclaim you;You are the eternal Father:All creation worships you.To you all angels, all the powers of heaven,Cherubim and Seraphim, sing in endless praise:Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory.The glorious company of apostles praise you.The noble fellowship of prophets praise you.The white-robed army of martyrs praise you.Throughout the world the holy Church acclaims you;Father, of majesty unbounded, your true and only Son, worthy of all worship, and the Holy Spirit, advocate and guide.You, Christ, are the king of glory, the eternal Son of the Father.When you became man to set us free you did not shun the Virgin's womb.You overcame the sting of death and opened the kingdom of heaven to all believers.You are seated at God's right hand in glory.We believe that you will come and be our judge.Come then, Lord, and help your people, bought with the price of your own blood, and bring us with your saints to glory everlasting. 2 Cor 4:1-12Therefore, since it is by God's mercy that we are engaged in this ministry, we do not lose heart. We have renounced the shameful things that one hides; we refuse to practice cunning or to falsify God's word; but by the open statement of the truth we commend ourselves to the conscience of everyone in the sight of God. And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. For we do not proclaim ourselves; we proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord and ourselves as your slaves for Jesus' sake. For it is the God who said, "Let light shine out of darkness," who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in clay jars, so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be made visible in our bodies. For while we live, we are always being given up to death for Jesus' sake, so that the life of Jesus may be made visible in our mortal flesh. So death is at work in us, but life in you.The Word of the Lord.Thanks Be To God. Matt. 5:38-48“You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.' But I say to you, Do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also; and if anyone wants to sue you and take your coat, give your cloak as well; and if anyone forces you to go one mile, go also the second mile. Give to everyone who begs from you, and do not refuse anyone who wants to borrow from you. "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers and sisters, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.The Word of the Lord. Thanks Be To God. Benedictus Dominus Deus Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel; *he has come to his people and set them free.He has raised up for us a mighty savior, *born of the house of his servant David.Through his holy prophets he promised of old, that he would save us from our enemies, *from the hands of all who hate us.He promised to show mercy to our fathers *and to remember his holy covenant.This was the oath he swore to our father Abraham, *to set us free from the hands of our enemies,Free to worship him without fear, *holy and righteous in his sight all the days of our life.You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, *for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way,To give his people knowledge of salvation *by the forgiveness of their sins.In the tender compassion of our God *the dawn from on high shall break upon us,To shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, *and to guide our feet into the way of peace.Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: *as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.The Apostles CreedI believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.   The PrayersThe Lord be with you.And also with you. Let us pray.Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.   Suffrages BV. Save your people, Lord, and bless your inheritance;R. Govern and uphold them, now and always.V. Day by day we bless you; R. We praise your name for ever.V. Lord, keep us from all sin today; R. Have mercy on us, Lord, have mercy.V. Lord, show us your love and mercy; R. For we put our trust in you.V. In you, Lord, is our hope; R. And we shall never hope in vain. The CollectsCollect of the DayO Lord, you have taught us that without love whatever we do is worth nothing: Send your Holy Spirit and pour into our hearts your greatest gift, which is love, the true bond of peace and of all virtue, without which whoever lives is accounted dead before you. Grant this for the sake of your only Son Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.Daily Collects: A Collect for Peace O God, the author of peace and lover of concord, to know you is eternal life and to serve you is perfect freedom: Defend us, your humble servants, in all assaults of our enemies; that we, surely trusting in your defense, may not fear the power of any adversaries, through the might of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.A Collect for Grace O Lord, our heavenly Father, almighty and everlasting God, you have brought us safely to the beginning of this day: Defend us by your mighty power, that we may not fall into sin nor run into any danger; and that, guided by your Spirit, we may do what is righteous in your sight; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.Take a moment of silence at this time to reflect and pray for others.Collect of Saint Basil O Christ God, Who art worshipped and glorified at every place and time; Who art long-suffering, most merciful and compassionate; Who lovest the righteous and art merciful to sinners; Who callest all to salvation with the promise of good things to come: receive, Lord, the prayers we now offer, and direct our lives in the way of Thy commandments. Sanctify our souls, cleanse our bodies, correct our thoughts, purify our minds and deliver us from all affliction, evil and illness. Surround us with Thy holy angels, that guarded and instructed by their forces, we may reach unity of faith and the understanding of Thine unapproachable glory: for blessed art Thou unto ages of ages. Amen. A Prayer of St. John Chrysostom Almighty God, you have given us grace at this time, with one accord to make our common supplications to you; and you have promised through your well-beloved Son that when two or three are gathered together in his Name you will grant their requests: Fulfill now, O Lord, our desires and petitions as may be best for us; granting us in this world knowledge of your truth, and in the age to come life everlasting. Amen.   DismissalLet us bless the LordThanks be to God!The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us all evermore. Amen

Our text is from Ruth 3:7-10 When Boaz had finished eating and drinking and was in good spirits, he went over to lie down at the far end of the grain pile. Ruth approached quietly, uncovered his feet and lay down. In the middle of the night something startled the man; he turned—and there was a woman lying at his feet! “Who are you?” he asked. “I am your servant Ruth,” she said. “Spread the corner of your garment over me, since you are a guardian-redeemer of our family.” “The Lord bless you, my daughter,” he replied. “This kindness is greater than that which you showed earlier: You have not run after the younger men, whether rich or poor. The potential for scandal just increased greatly. This is the days of the judges after all, when ‘everyone did what was right in their own eyes.” Scandal was normal. As we have followed the story of Ruth and now Boaz, both have been portrayed as upstanding people. Each, in their own way, is righteous in all the best senses of that word. When you're in the presence of such a human, you never know what kind of good things might come your way. But now Ruth has been instructed to remove the symbols of her widowhood, indicating her intention to once again engage in the normal activities of life. She washes and perfumes herself and goes to Boaz's harvest party. She stays hidden until he goes to sleep. Then she uncovers his feet and lays down. What will Boaz say when he wakes up to find a young, perfumed woman sleeping next to or on his uncovered legs? What did it mean that Ruth uncovered Boaz's feet? We are not sure. It's a rare expression. We do know that Leviticus includes a long list of relatives a person is not allowed to have sexual relations with. The expression used there is similar, “you shall not uncover their nakedness…” (Leviticus 18 KJV). Further, Boaz has been partying all night and is in good spirits. Everything is ripe for scandal. Boaz is startled in the middle of the night and wakes up to find a perfumed young woman lying at his uncovered feet. Earlier he had prayed that Ruth would be blessed by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings she has come to find refuge. In response to Boaz' question, “Who are you?” Ruth says, “I am your servant Ruth, spread the corner of your wings over me, since you are a kinsman-redeemer.” Ruth invites Boaz to fulfill his own prayer by marrying her. Boaz is a redeemer--he is called on to deliver a family member from evil and trouble, particularly poverty, oppression, or injustice. Boaz responds to Ruth's request with a blessing. But also, with a most intriguing statement that this, her second act of ‘mercy', is greater than her first (her commitment to Naomi). Was he completely overtaken with amazement that this young woman would seek him as a husband? Ruth, a poor, younger, foreign, widow, seeks a marriage proposal from an older, rich, Israelite. She who came to find shelter under the Lord's ‘wing' will find her full reward from the Lord when the man, who himself voiced such a blessing, spreads his ‘wing' over her in marriage. This is not a story about scandal, but about redemption. The story is squeaky clean highlighting the high moral quality of both Ruth and Boaz. There on the threshing floor the sexual temptation was real, both knew it, both felt it; both resisted. Allow this story to awaken a desire for righteousness in your own heart. Go now with God's blessing: May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you: wherever he may send you. May he guide you through the wilderness: protect you through the storm. May he bring you home rejoicing; at the wonders he has shown you. May he bring you home rejoicing once again into our doors.

Welcome to Calvary Lutheran Church ELCA. Perham, Minnesota. Thank God. Share Jesus. Help Others. Prayer of the Day Almighty God, your sovereign purpose brings salvation, healing and new life to birth. Give us faith to be steadfast amid the tumults of this world, trusting that your kingdom comes and your will is done through your Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen. Ruth 3:1-18 1 Naomi her mother-in-law said to her, “My daughter, I need to seek some security for you, so that it may be well with you. 2 Now here is our kinsman Boaz, with whose young women you have been working. See, he is winnowing barley tonight at the threshing-floor. 3 Now wash and anoint yourself, and put on your best clothes and go down to the threshing-floor; but do not make yourself known to the man until he has finished eating and drinking. 4 When he lies down, observe the place where he lies; then, go and uncover his feet and lie down; and he will tell you what to do.” 5 She said to her, “All that you tell me I will do.” 6 So she went down to the threshing-floor and did just as her mother-in-law had instructed her. 7 When Boaz had eaten and drunk, and he was in a contented mood, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain. Then she came quietly and uncovered his feet, and lay down. 8 At midnight the man was startled and turned over, and there, lying at his feet, was a woman! 9 He said, “Who are you?” And she answered, “I am Ruth, your servant; spread your cloak over your servant, for you are next-of-kin.” 10 He said, “May you be blessed by the Lord, my daughter; this last instance of your loyalty is better than the first; you have not gone after young men, whether poor or rich. 11 And now, my daughter, do not be afraid; I will do for you all that you ask, for all the assembly of my people know that you are a worthy woman. 12 But now, though it is true that I am a near kinsman, there is another kinsman more closely related than I. 13 Remain this night, and in the morning, if he will act as next-of-kin for you, good; let him do so. If he is not willing to act as next-of-kin for you, then, as the Lord lives, I will act as next-of-kin for you. Lie down until the morning.” 14 So she lay at his feet until morning, but got up before one person could recognize another; for he said, “It must not be known that the woman came to the threshing-floor.” 15 Then he said, “Bring the cloak you are wearing and hold it out.” So she held it, and he measured out six measures of barley, and put it on her back; then he went into the city. 16 She came to her mother- in-law, who said, “How did things go with you, my daughter?” Then she told her all that the man had done for her, 17 saying, “He gave me these six measures of barley, for he said, ‘Do not go back to your mother-in-law empty-handed.'” 18 She replied, “Wait, my daughter, until you learn how the matter turns out, for the man will not rest, but will settle the matter today.” P. The word of the Lord. C. Thanks be to God! Sermon: Pastor Eric Clapp Facebook: / calvaryperham YouTube: / @calvaryperham Lakes 99.5 Radio Sundays at 10:30 TUESDAY WORSHIP 9:00AM Arvig TV Channel 14 egiving www.calvaryperham.com

In Ruth 3, Naomi and Ruth are running out of time. The harvest is just about over and Boaz will be returning home. He obviously is not making a move, so Naomi comes up with a plan of her own to get Ruth and Boaz married. It turns out to not be the greatest advice, but it works because Boaz had a great amount of honor and integrity. There is a lot we can learn from the two of them in this situation. When Boaz acted with integrity, he was declaring that God was in control and He would provide.

In Ruth 3, Naomi and Ruth are running out of time. The harvest is just about over and Boaz will be returning home. He obviously is not making a move, so Naomi comes up with a plan of her own to get Ruth and Boaz married. It turns out to not be the greatest advice, but it works because Boaz had a great amount of honor and integrity. There is a lot we can learn from the two of them in this situation. When Boaz acted with integrity, he was declaring that God was in control and He would provide.

"Uncover his feet, and lie down; and he will tell you what you should do." Ru 3:4NKJVAs a Moabitess, the law said Ruth was unqualified to mix with Jews. "An Ammonite or Moabite shall not enter the assembly of the Lord" (Dt 23:3 NKJV). But when God has a plan for your life, He steps in and says, "I have called you by your name; you are Mine.. you were precious in My sight...I will give men for you, and people for your life" (Isa 43:1, 4 NKJV). When Boaz began showering Ruth with kindness, she knelt before him saying,"Why have I found favor in your eyes...?" (Ru2:10 NKJV). Notice how Boaz answered: "It has been fully reported to me, all that you have done" (v. 11 NKJV). Aware that Ruth has become the object of Boaz's affection, Naomi instructs her: "He is winnowing barley tonight at the threshing floor. Therefore wash yourself and anoint yourself, put on your best garment and go down to the threshing floor; but do not make yourself known to the man until he has finished eating and drinking. Then it shall be, when he lies down, that you shall notice the place where he lies; and you shall go in, uncover his feet, and lie down; and he will tell you what you should do" (Ru 3:2-4 NKJV). She started at his feet and ended up by his side. "Do not make yourself known." Don't push, don't try to impress God with your performance, just stay at His feet and He will raise you up to His side. "Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time" (1Pe 5:6 NKJV).Support the Show.Changing Lives | Building Strong Family | Impacting Our Community For Jesus Christ!

Ruth 3:1-18 1 One day Ruths mother-in-law Naomi said to her, My daughter, I must find a home for you, where you will be well provided for. 2 Now Boaz, with whose women you have worked, is a relative of ours. Tonight he will be winnowing barley on the threshing floor. 3 Wash, put on perfume, and get dressed in your best clothes. Then go down to the threshing floor, but dont let him know you are there until he has finished eating and drinking. 4 When he lies down, note the place where he is lying. Then go and uncover his feet and lie down. He will tell you what to do. 5 I will do whatever you say, Ruth answered. 6 So she went down to the threshing floor and did everything her mother-in-law told her to do. 7 When Boaz had finished eating and drinking and was in good spirits, he went over to lie down at the far end of the grain pile. Ruth approached quietly, uncovered his feet and lay down. 8 In the middle of the night something startled the man; he turnedand there was a woman lying at his feet! 9 Who are you? he asked. I am your servant Ruth, she said. Spread the corner of your garment over me, since you are a guardian-redeemer of our family. 10 The Lord bless you, my daughter, he replied. This kindness is greater than that which you showed earlier: You have not run after the younger men, whether rich or poor. 11 And now, my daughter, dont be afraid. I will do for you all you ask. All the people of my town know that you are a woman of noble character. 12 Although it is true that I am a guardian-redeemer of our family, there is another who is more closely related than I. 13 Stay here for the night, and in the morning if he wants to do his duty as your guardian-redeemer, good; let him redeem you. But if he is not willing, as surely as the Lord lives I will do it. Lie here until morning. 14 So she lay at his feet until morning, but got up before anyone could be recognized; and he said, No one must know that a woman came to the threshing floor. 15 He also said, Bring me the shawl you are wearing and hold it out. When she did so, he poured into it six measures of barley and placed the bundle on her. Then he went back to town. 16 When Ruth came to her mother-in-law, Naomi asked, How did it go, my daughter? Then she told her everything Boaz had done for her 17 and added, He gave me these six measures of barley, saying, Dont go back to your mother-in-law empty-handed. 18 Then Naomi said, Wait, my daughter, until you find out what happens. For the man will not rest until the matter is settled today.

Come Out of That Corner, is a reading using the Book of Ruth, a love story about a man and a young widow. It's a redemption story regarding this wealthy man, a young woman, and a near kinsman. The Book reminds us that God is still at work in our lives. He has not forgotten you nor your faithfulness towards Him. Your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly. When Boaz saw Ruth, he called her out of the corner of the field into the midst of the harvest field. Even though you may be in a crowd of people, God can make it so, just like Ruth, that you stand out among them all. Be assured God has not forgotten you, nor does He overlook you. When He has prepared for you, you will hear Him call, "Come Out of That Corner! Blessings, Presiding Elder Barbara Hayes TWFYT | TWSB

In the next chapter of this story Ruth returns to the threshing floor of Boaz and follows Naomi's instructions to show him her love and interest. When Boaz realizes Ruth's desire to marry him, he is moved by her deep loyalty – loyalty first to Naomi, then to him. Although the cultural nuances of the story may seem a bit odd to us compared to modern love stories, we still see a beautiful relationship kindled in the most unlikely of ways – a foreign widow and a landowning Israelite. Who would have expected that? Although Ruth is an outsider to everyone in this story, her deep loyalty to her family and to Israel's God is a moving testimony to others. Yet again we see God's hand at work in the way he carefully shapes and develops Ruth's heart. With just as many reasons to be bitter as her mother-in-law, Ruth instead chooses the path of obedience, loyalty, and love and is rewarded for her faithfulness to God's intentions. In the same way we see Boaz demonstrating his loyalty to Ruth by his commitment to earn her hand in marriage legitimately.

Ruth 3 1 One day Ruth's mother-in-law Naomi said to her, “My daughter, I must find a home for you, where you will be well provided for. 2 Now Boaz, with whose women you have worked, is a relative of ours. Tonight he will be winnowing barley on the threshing floor. 3 Wash, put on perfume, and get dressed in your best clothes. Then go down to the threshing floor, but don't let him know you are there until he has finished eating and drinking. 4 When he lies down, note the place where he is lying. Then go and uncover his feet and lie down. He will tell you what to do.” 5 “I will do whatever you say,” Ruth answered. 6 So she went down to the threshing floor and did everything her mother-in-law told her to do. 7 When Boaz had finished eating and drinking and was in good spirits, he went over to lie down at the far end of the grain pile. Ruth approached quietly, uncovered his feet and lay down. 8 In the middle of the night something startled the man; he turned—and there was a woman lying at his feet! 9 “Who are you?” he asked. “I am your servant Ruth,” she said. “Spread the corner of your garment over me, since you are a guardian-redeemer of our family.” 10 “The LORD bless you, my daughter,” he replied. “This kindness is greater than that which you showed earlier: You have not run after the younger men, whether rich or poor. 11 And now, my daughter, don't be afraid. I will do for you all you ask. All the people of my town know that you are a woman of noble character. 12 Although it is true that I am a guardian-redeemer of our family, there is another who is more closely related than I. 13 Stay here for the night, and in the morning if he wants to do his duty as your guardian-redeemer, good; let him redeem you. But if he is not willing, as surely as the LORD lives I will do it. Lie here until morning.” 14 So she lay at his feet until morning, but got up before anyone could be recognized; and he said, “No one must know that a woman came to the threshing floor.” 15 He also said, “Bring me the shawl you are wearing and hold it out.” When she did so, he poured into it six measures of barley and placed the bundle on her. Then he went back to town. 16 When Ruth came to her mother-in-law, Naomi asked, “How did it go, my daughter?” Then she told her everything Boaz had done for her 17 and added, “He gave me these six measures of barley, saying, ‘Don't go back to your mother-in-law empty-handed.' ” 18 Then Naomi said, “Wait, my daughter, until you find out what happens. For the man will not rest until the matter is settled today.”   Ruth 4:1-11 1 Meanwhile Boaz went up to the town gate and sat down there just as the guardian-redeemer he had mentioned came along. Boaz said, “Come over here, my friend, and sit down.” So he went over and sat down. 2 Boaz took ten of the elders of the town and said, “Sit here,” and they did so. 3 Then he said to the guardian-redeemer, “Naomi, who has come back from Moab, is selling the piece of land that belonged to our relative Elimelek. 4 I thought I should bring the matter to your attention and suggest that you buy it in the presence of these seated here and in the presence of the elders of my people. If you will redeem it, do so. But if you will not, tell me, so I will know. For no one has the right to do it except you, and I am next in line.” “I will redeem it,” he said. 5 Then Boaz said, “On the day you buy the land from Naomi, you also acquire Ruth the Moabite, the dead man's widow, in order to maintain the name of the dead with his property.” 6 At this, the guardian-redeemer said, “Then I cannot redeem it because I might endanger my own estate. You redeem it yourself. I cannot do it.” 7 (Now in earlier times in Israel, for the redemption and transfer of property to become final, one party took off his sandal and gave it to the other. This was the method of legalizing transactions in Israel.) 8 So the guardian-redeemer said to Boaz, “Buy it yourself.” And he removed his sandal. 9 Then Boaz announced to the elders and all the people, “Today you are witnesses that I have bought from Naomi all the property of Elimelek, Kilion and Mahlon. 10 I have also acquired Ruth the Moabite, Mahlon's widow, as my wife, in order to maintain the name of the dead with his property, so that his name will not disappear from among his family or from his hometown. Today you are witnesses!” 11 Then the elders and all the people at the gate said, “We are witnesses. May the LORD make the woman who is coming into your home like Rachel and Leah, who together built up the family of Israel. May you have standing in Ephrathah and be famous in Bethlehem.   God can redeem it.

     In this section, Moses addresses how corporal punishment was to be meted out by the courts (Deut 25:1-3), how fairness applied to work animals (Deut 25:4), and the specifics of levirate marriage (Deut 25:5-10). Fair Punishment for Crime      In ancient Israel, like any nation, there were certain crimes that warranted punishment. In this particular case, Moses set a limit on the number of blows a man could receive as punishment for his crime. Moses said, “If there is a dispute between men and they go to court, and the judges decide their case, and they justify the righteous and condemn the wicked, 2 then it shall be if the wicked man deserves to be beaten, the judge shall then make him lie down and be beaten in his presence with the number of stripes according to his guilt” (Deut 25:1-2).      In Moses' example, a dispute arose between two men who could not resolve their case by themselves and needed to bring it before a court. In this instance, the judges heard and ruled on the case and declared one righteous (צַדִּיק tsaddiq – righteous, just) and the other wicked (רָשָׁע rasha – wicked, criminal). This assumes God's law had been given, that the judges objectively understood the law based on God's intent, that they properly evaluated the case, and rendered a verdict that declared one to be justified and the other a criminal (Deut 25:1). All of this assumes God as the absolute moral Lawgiver who had revealed His will in objective language that could be understood and applied. If there is no absolute moral Lawgiver, then there are no absolute moral laws, and if there are no absolute moral laws, then right and wrong are reduced to arbitrary absolutes manufactured by those in power.      Here, Moses mentions a case, which is vague and probably intended to leave its application open to multiple instances where the judgment might apply. If the wicked person had committed a crime worthy of a beating, it was to be executed right away in the presence of the judge, and the beating was to be in proportion to the crime. Furthermore, Moses set a limit on the number of lashes a criminal could receive, saying, “He may beat him forty times but no more, so that he does not beat him with many more stripes than these and your brother is not degraded in your eyes” (Deut 25:3). The purpose of the limitation was to prevent the criminal from being degraded by excessive punishment. After all, he was still a person with intrinsic value.      The ancient Law Code of Hammurabi (ca. 1750 B.C.) directed a man to be beaten 60 times, saying, “If a seignior has struck the cheek of a seignior who is superior to him, he shall be beaten sixty (times) with an oxtail whip in the assembly.”[1] This shows that public beatings were a common practice in the ancient world. Peter Craigie states: "The substance of this legislation makes it very clear that corporal punishment was subject to many safeguards designed to avoid its abuse. Corporal punishment could be inflicted only after proper trial, and then it was to be carried out, within the specified limit, under the supervision of the judge. In this way, care was taken to see that the punishment was appropriate to the crime, on the one hand, and that the criminal was not grossly maltreated on the other hand; the guilty party was still your brother (v. 3b; a fellow Israelite) and was not to be publicly humiliated."[2]      In the New Testament we learn this particular law was reduced to thirty-nine blows, likely as a safeguard to prevent Jewish judges from going beyond what the law demanded. The apostle Paul had been wrongly beaten with a whip, saying, “Five times I received from the Jews thirty-nine lashes” (2 Cor 11:24), adding, “Three times I was beaten with rods” (2 Cor 11:25). Here was an abuse of this law by corrupt Israelites who sought to suppress Paul and his Christian ministry. Fair Treatment of Work Animals      Moses then addressed the just treatment of an ox while it is threshing wheat, saying, “You shall not muzzle the ox while he is threshing” (Deut 25:4). Moses' point in adding this statement seems to expound on the previous verses. If God required just treatment of animals, how much more the just treatment of people. But it also demonstrated an economic principle that the animal that worked had the right to benefit from its labor. Daniel Block states: "Oxen used for threshing grain must not be muzzled. The ordinance assumes the ancient practice of threshing grain by having oxen trample the stalks or pull rock-studded sledges over the stalks spread out on the threshing floor. Greedy farmers muzzled their oxen or donkeys to prevent them from eating instead of working, or simply eating that which he hoped to harvest for himself (cf. Prov 14:4)."[3] Eugene Merrill adds: "The animal is nowhere “brother to the man” in Scripture but always sharply distinguished from humans. Nevertheless, the animal world, like all nature, is part of the divine creation entrusted to humankind as a stewardship. To abuse animal life is to fail to discharge that stewardship, and to fail to show mercy to God's lowest creatures is to open the door to disregard of human life as well."[4]      Moses had previously addressed humanitarian treatment of animals that were used for work (Deut 5:14; 22:1-4, 6-7). Elsewhere, the Bible reveals a theology of animals that reveals God personally cares for the animals He's created (Psa 104:10-29; 147:9; Matt 6:26), and He expects His people to do the same. Solomon states, “A righteous man has regard for the life of his animal, but even the compassion of the wicked is cruel” (Prov 12:10).      The apostle Paul used this verse in Deuteronomy as an analogy for compensating pastors for their work, saying, “The elders who rule well are to be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching. For the Scripture says, ‘You shall not muzzle the ox while he is threshing', and ‘The laborer is worthy of his wages'” (1 Tim 5:17-18; cf., 1 Cor 9:9-10). In this way, believers help support their pastors for the work they do. Such support is honored by God. The Law of Levirate Marriage      Moses then issued the law of levirate marriage, saying, “When brothers live together and one of them dies and has no son, the wife of the deceased shall not be married outside the family to a strange man. Her husband's brother shall go in to her and take her to himself as wife and perform the duty of a husband's brother to her” (Deut 25:5).      Marrying a sister-in-law was forbidden under the Mosaic Law (Lev 18:16). However, Moses here gave an exception in which he directed the brother of the deceased to take his sister-in-law as his wife in order to bring forth a son (child) in his brother's place. Apparently, this practice existed in ancient Israel (Gen 38:6-10), and Moses here codified it as law. The passage assumes 1) the living brother is not married (or at least willing to take a second wife), 2) that the brothers had lived on the same property together (perhaps sharing adjacent land), and 3) his sister-in-law had no children. Some see the heir as being a son only; however, Moses had previously ruled that a daughter could inherit the land (see Num 27:1-11). If the living brother took his sister-in-law to be his wife, then he 1) had a wife for life, 2) he would raise her firstborn under his brother's name, and 3) the firstborn would inherit his brother's property. This was a sacrifice that cost the brother financially, as he would need to raise his biological child until he was an adult, at which time the child would inherit the land. If the surviving brother refused to marry his sister-in-law, and she died childless, then his brother's property would likely become his own. Earl Radmacher states: "The ancients greatly feared having no heirs to carry on the family's name. Furthermore, a widow with no children to take care of her would quickly become a beggar. Taking a brother's widow as a second wife protected her and preserved the name, memory, and interests of the deceased brother. The dead brother would be acknowledged as the legal father of the firstborn son of that marriage. This practice is called levirate marriage, from the Latin word for brother-in-law."[5] Thomas Constable adds: "The Israelites were to practice levirate marriage only in cases where the brothers had lived together (v. 5) and the remaining brother was not already married. Living together meant sharing the same estate, not necessarily residing under the same roof. When another kinsman voluntarily assumed the responsibility of the surviving brother, that brother was apparently under no obligation to marry his sister-in-law (cf. Ruth 4)."[6]      Moses gave the reason for the levirate marriage, saying, “It shall be that the firstborn whom she bears shall assume the name of his dead brother, so that his name will not be blotted out from Israel” (Deut 25:6). The firstborn child would be the biological offspring of the living brother, but would eventually become the legal heir of his deceased brother, thus perpetuating the dead brother's name in Israel.      However, though this was the honorable thing to do, it was not commanded of the living brother. Moses described a scenario in which the living brother refused to perform his levirate duty, saying, “But if the man does not desire to take his brother's wife, then his brother's wife shall go up to the gate to the elders and say, ‘My husband's brother refuses to establish a name for his brother in Israel; he is not willing to perform the duty of a husband's brother to me.” (Deut 25:7). Though Moses does not give a reason why the brother refused to marry his sister-in-law, it could be the brother was motivated by greed to get his deceased brother's property. If so, this would be a violation of the command, “You shall not covet” (Deut 5:21a). Daniel Block states: "The reason why a brother might refuse to marry the widow probably is to be found in a desire for personal gain. If he married the woman and there was a male child, that child, who would legally be the son of the deceased man, would inherit his “father's” property. In the absence of such a child, however, the surviving brother might hope to inherit the property of his deceased brother (Num. 27:9; this would apply only if the widow had no children at all, male or female). If such were the motive, it deserved the reprobation of the community."[7]      However, the widow was not without recourse to persuade her brother-in-law to marry her and to give her a child, as she can take the matter to the elders of the gate of the city and plead her case. Daniel Block writes: "Moses authorizes the bereaved widow to present her complaint before the elders at the town gate (v. 7b). As a legally competent plaintiff, he invites her to present her case before the body responsible for applying Israel's family laws. Having lost her husband, who would otherwise defend her interests, she may appeal to the elders to stand up for her. In addition to authorizing women to take their cases to the elders, he also advises the women on how to present their case."[8]      After the widow made her case, Moses directed the elders, saying, “Then the elders of his city shall summon him and speak to him. And if he persists and says, ‘I do not desire to take her,' then his brother's wife shall come to him in the sight of the elders, and pull his sandal off his foot and spit in his face; and she shall declare, ‘Thus it is done to the man who does not build up his brother's house'” (Deut 25:8-9). Here was social pressure applied to the man to coerce him to perform his levirate duty, which was the selfless act of marrying his deceased brother's widow and raising up a child to carry on his name. However, if the elders of the city could not persuade the man, then the widow was permitted to publicly humiliate him by taking his sandal, spitting in his face, and publicly declaring how the man had failed to behave honorably. Keil and Delitzsch state: "The taking off of the shoe was an ancient custom in Israel, adopted, according to Ruth 4:7, in cases of redemption and exchange, for the purpose of confirming commercial transactions. The usage arose from the fact, that when any one took possession of landed property, he did so by treading upon the soil, and asserting his right of possession by standing upon it in his shoes. In this way the taking off of the shoe and handing it to another became a symbol of the renunciation of a man's position and property. … But the custom was an ignominious one in such a case as this, when the shoe was publicly taken off the foot of the brother-in-law by the widow whom he refused to marry. He was thus deprived of the position which he ought to have occupied in relation to her and to his deceased brother, or to his paternal house; and the disgrace involved in this was still further heightened by the fact that his sister-in-law spat in his face."[9]      Though we cannot be certain, it's likely the taking of the sandal served as a receipt of the transaction in which the widow took possession of her deceased husband's property, albeit without a husband or son to take ultimate inheritance of the land after she died. Daniel Block states: "The action represented a symbolic action of shame, but it also symbolized the transfer of the brother-in-law's rights to the deceased's widow and to that portion of the patrimonial estate that her husband would have received when it was divided. Since the woman would take the sandal home, it would function like a receipt, providing concrete proof of the present legal proceedings (cf. Ruth 4:7–8)."[10]      If this is the case, it could be that when the widow died, the land would return to the brother who refused to execute his levirate duties. However, until then, and throughout his life, the man would bear the public shame of his selfish act. So, Moses stated, “In Israel his name shall be called, ‘The house of him whose sandal is removed'” (Deut 25:10). Here was a legacy of shame that carried on for many years, all because a man would not live honorably and selflessly as God directed. One action can have lasting consequences that can carry on for years. No doubt, his other relatives and children would be marked by the man's selfish actions. We must realize that every moment is an opportunity for integrity. The Example of Ruth      Ruth was married to an Israelite man who died and left her a widow (Ruth 1:1-5). Ruth became a believer in Yahweh and committed herself to caring for Naomi, her mother-in-law (Ruth 1:16-17). After going to Bethlehem with Naomi, Ruth happened to glean from the field of Boaz (providentially), who was a kinsman to her deceased husband (Ruth 2:20), and he was amenable to caring for her (Ruth 2:1-8). Under Naomi's guidance, Ruth came to Boaz as her kinsman redeemer and sought levirate marriage (Ruth 3:1-11). However, being an honorable man who desired to live according to God's law, Boaz informed Ruth there was another man who was a kinsman closer to her (Ruth 3:12), and Boaz was willing to approach the man concerning his duty (Ruth 3:13). When Boaz approached the man at the city gate, he explained the situation concerning their dead relative, Elimelech, and the need to purchase the land for Naomi, who needed the resources (Ruth 4:1-4). However, Boaz also informed his relative that he would need to take Ruth as his wife and to fulfill his levirate duty (Ruth 4:5). Upon hearing this from Boaz, the nearest kinsman declined the offer, fearing it would impact him in such a way so as to jeopardize his own inheritance (Ruth 4:6). Having executed a legal transaction (Ruth 4:7-8), Boaz agreed to purchase the land from Naomi and to take Ruth to be his wife in order to raise up a descendant to inherit the deceased relative's land (Ruth 4:9-10). Boaz' actions were acknowledged and praised by the elders and citizens who witnessed the transaction (Ruth 4:11-12). Boaz and Ruth married and bore children who eventually led to the birth of King David (Ruth 4:13-22), and Jesus the Messiah (Matt 1:5-6, 17).      The marriage of Boaz to Ruth adhered to the law of the levirate marriage, in which Boaz would father a biological son that would eventually not be his son, but the son of his deceased relative, Elimelech. Gary North states: "Boaz became the biggest covenantal somebody in his generation only because he was willing to become a covenantal nobody in the extension of Elimelech's line. The land that he presumably bought from Naomi became the family inheritance in another man's line. Any improvements that he made in this land became another family line's property. By abandoning his own name covenantally, he thereby became the greatest name of his generation, a name that is listed in both of the messianic genealogies in the New Testament (Matt 1:5; Luke 3:32)."[11]     [1] James Bennett Pritchard, ed., The Ancient Near Eastern Texts Relating to the Old Testament, 3rd ed. with Supplement. (Princeton: Princeton University Press, 1969), 175. [2] Peter C. Craigie, The Book of Deuteronomy, The New International Commentary on the Old Testament (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1976), 312. [3] Daniel I. Block, The NIV Application Commentary: Deuteronomy, ed. Terry Muck (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2012), 580. [4] Eugene H. Merrill, Deuteronomy, vol. 4, The New American Commentary (Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1994), 326. [5] Earl D. Radmacher, Ronald Barclay Allen, and H. Wayne House, Nelson's New Illustrated Bible Commentary (Nashville: T. Nelson Publishers, 1999), 259. [6] Tom Constable, Tom Constable's Expository Notes on the Bible (Galaxie Software, 2003), Dt 25:5. [7] Peter C. Craigie, The Book of Deuteronomy, 315. [8] Daniel I. Block, The NIV Application Commentary: Deuteronomy, 583. [9] Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch, Commentary on the Old Testament, vol. 1 (Peabody, MA: Hendrickson, 1996), 954–955. [10] Daniel I. Block, The NIV Application Commentary: Deuteronomy, 583–584. [11] Gary North, Inheritance and Dominion: An Economic Commentary on Deuteronomy; Chapter 62, Levirate Marriage and Family Name, https://www.garynorth.com/freebooks/docs/html/gnde/Chapter62.htm.

Ruth 3:1-18 Dr. Steven R. Cook   Then [at the end of harvest season] Naomi her mother-in-law said to her, “My daughter, shall I not seek security for you, that it may be well with you? [i.e. lasting security] 2 “Now is not Boaz our kinsman, with whose maids you were? Behold, he winnows barley at the threshing floor tonight [threshing = separating the kernels of grain from the chaff]. 3 “Wash yourself therefore, and anoint yourself and put on your best clothes [perhaps to indicate she is passed grieving her deceased husband; see Gen. 38:14; 2 Sam. 14:2], and go down to the threshing floor; but do not make yourself known to the man until he has finished eating and drinking. 4 “It shall be when he lies down, that you shall notice the place where he lies, and you shall go and uncover his feet and lie down [a picture of submission implying a request for marriage]; then he will tell you what you shall do.” 5 She said to her, “All that you say I will do.” 6 So she went down to the threshing floor and did according to all that her mother-in-law had commanded her. 7 When Boaz had eaten and drunk and his heart was merry, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain; and she came secretly, and uncovered his feet and lay down [an expression of submission]. 8 It happened in the middle of the night that the man was startled and bent forward; and behold, a woman was lying at his feet. 9 He said, “Who are you?” And she answered, “I am Ruth your maid. So spread your covering [כָּנָף kanaph – lit. wing – i.e. “cover me with the covering I removed from you”; a picture of protection and provision; cf. Ezek. 16:8] over your maid, for you are a close relative [גֹאֵל - goel – kinsman-redeemer].” 10 Then he said, “May you be blessed of the LORD, my daughter. You have shown your last kindness [חֶסֶד chesed – loyal-love; i.e. to carry on the name of her deceased husband] to be better than the first [to sacrifice all to care for Naomi; see Ruth 1:16-17] by not going after young men, whether poor or rich [Ruth pursued a marriage that would provide protection and provision for her and Naomi]. 11 “Now, my daughter, do not fear. I will do for you whatever you ask [concerning marriage], for all my people in the city know that you are a woman of excellence [אֵ֥שֶׁת חַ֖יִל - esheth chayil – woman of worth; cf. Prov. 31:10  the woman of excellence has a strong work ethic, commitment to family and concern for others]. 12 “Now it is true I am a close relative; however, there is a relative closer than I [Boaz recognizes the legal right of a closer relative; thus honoring/submitting to God's word]. 13 “Remain this night, and when morning comes, if he will redeem you [as the Law directs], good; let him redeem you. But if he does not wish to redeem you, then I will redeem you, as the LORD lives [i.e. swearing an oath of promise; see 1 Kings 1:29-30]. Lie down until morning.” 14 So she lay at his feet until morning and rose before one could recognize another; and he said [probably to his workers], “Let it not be known that the woman came to the threshing floor [to avoid gossip and protect her reputation].” 15 Again he said, “Give me the cloak that is on you and hold it.” So she held it, and he measured six measures of barley and laid it on her [approximately 60 pounds, as a sign of his good will]. Then she went into the city. 16 When she came to her mother-in-law, she said, “How did it go, my daughter?” [i.e. did Boaz agree to the proposal?] And she told her all that the man had done for her. 17 She said, “These six measures of barley he gave to me, for he said, ‘Do not go to your mother-in-law empty-handed.'” [Boaz is thoughtful about others] 18 Then she said, “Wait, my daughter, until you know how the matter turns out; for the man will not rest until he has settled it today.” [Boaz is not a procrastinator]

Ruth 3 1 One day Ruth's mother-in-law Naomi said to her, “My daughter, I must find a home for you, where you will be well provided for. 2 Now Boaz, with whose women you have worked, is a relative of ours. Tonight he will be winnowing barley on the threshing floor. 3 Wash, put on perfume, and get dressed in your best clothes. Then go down to the threshing floor, but don't let him know you are there until he has finished eating and drinking. 4 When he lies down, note the place where he is lying. Then go and uncover his feet and lie down. He will tell you what to do.” 5 “I will do whatever you say,” Ruth answered. 6 So she went down to the threshing floor and did everything her mother-in-law told her to do. 7 When Boaz had finished eating and drinking and was in good spirits, he went over to lie down at the far end of the grain pile. Ruth approached quietly, uncovered his feet and lay down. 8 In the middle of the night something startled the man; he turned—and there was a woman lying at his feet! 9 “Who are you?” he asked. “I am your servant Ruth,” she said. “Spread the corner of your garment over me, since you are a guardian-redeemer of our family.” 10 “The Lord bless you, my daughter,” he replied. “This kindness is greater than that which you showed earlier: You have not run after the younger men, whether rich or poor. 11 And now, my daughter, don't be afraid. I will do for you all you ask. All the people of my town know that you are a woman of noble character. 12 Although it is true that I am a guardian-redeemer of our family, there is another who is more closely related than I. 13 Stay here for the night, and in the morning if he wants to do his duty as your guardian-redeemer, good; let him redeem you. But if he is not willing, as surely as the Lord lives I will do it. Lie here until morning.” 14 So she lay at his feet until morning, but got up before anyone could be recognized; and he said, “No one must know that a woman came to the threshing floor.” 15 He also said, “Bring me the shawl you are wearing and hold it out.” When she did so, he poured into it six measures of barley and placed the bundle on her. Then he went back to town. 16 When Ruth came to her mother-in-law, Naomi asked, “How did it go, my daughter?” Then she told her everything Boaz had done for her 17 and added, “He gave me these six measures of barley, saying, ‘Don't go back to your mother-in-law empty-handed.'” 18 Then Naomi said, “Wait, my daughter, until you find out what happens. For the man will not rest until the matter is settled today.”

In this episode of the TBS Podcast, we continue the TBS Parenting series in the Book of Ruth, Men were the providers in the culture Ruth lived in. But Ruth and Naomi didn't have any husbands or sons to take care of their family. So, Ruth knew she would need to work hard to make sure they had enough to eat. Ruth was constantly going above and beyond. She lived a life of service. Boaz recognized her servant's heart. He had even heard of Ruth before he ever met her. People saw how committed and loyal Ruth was to serving Naomi and God. They admired Ruth. Boaz admired Ruth. When Boaz saw how genuine Ruth was, he wanted to serve her. So, Boaz provided what Ruth needed, and more! He made sure Ruth was taken care of. By going above and beyond, Boaz served both Ruth and Naomi.SUBSCRIBE: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-bible-seminary/id1495569127?i=1000535164528TheBibleSeminary.eduSupport the show (https://swp.paymentsgateway.net/co/default.aspx?pg_api_login_id=1OV15Ta2pl)

2021-06-06 The Proposalby Pastor Eric McNeilScripture Reference: Ruth 3:1-183 Then her mother-in-law Naomi said to her, “My daughter, shall I not seek security for you, that it may go well for you? 2 Now then, is Boaz not our relative, with whose young women you were? Behold, he is winnowing barley at the threshing floor tonight. 3 Wash yourself therefore, and anoint yourself, and put on your best clothes, and go down to the threshing floor; but do not reveal yourself to the man until he has finished eating and drinking. 4 And it shall be when he lies down, that you shall take notice of the place where he lies, and you shall go and uncover his feet and lie down; then he will tell you what you should do.” 5 And she said to her, “All that you say I will do.”6 So she went down to the threshing floor and did according to all that her mother-in-law had commanded her. 7 When Boaz had eaten and drunk and his heart was cheerful, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain; and she came secretly, and uncovered his feet and lay down. 8 And it happened in the middle of the night that the man was startled and bent forward; and behold, a woman was lying at his feet. 9 So he said, “Who are you?” And she answered, “I am Ruth your slave. Now spread your garment over your slave, for you are a redeemer.” 10 Then he said, “May you be blessed of the Lord, my daughter. You have shown your last kindness to be better than the first, by not going after young men, whether poor or rich. 11 So now, my daughter, do not fear. I will do for you whatever you say, for all my people in the city know that you are a woman of excellence. 12 But now, although it is true that I am a redeemer, yet there is also a redeemer more closely related than I. 13 Remain this night, and when morning comes, if he will redeem you, good; let him redeem you. But if he does not wish to redeem you, then I will redeem you, as the Lord lives. Lie down until morning.”

When Boaz noticed Ruth gleaning for wheat in his field, he chose her to help and to bless after hearing about how well she had treated Naomi after the deaths of their husbands. Much like Boaz chose Ruth, God chose each of us and wants provide for, protect, and bless us. Sermon Notes: bible.com/events/48691288

On episode 123 of the Adorned Podcast we discuss the Books of Judges and Ruth; how God is faithful even when His people are not. After Joshua’s death, the people of Israel turn from The Lord and begin to worship idols. During this time God raises up judges to govern over the land and to deliver Israel from its enemies. Some of these judges, such as Deborah and Gideon are great leaders, while others are not. During this time, there is a cycle of God blessing his people, the prosperity of God’s people, the rebellion of God’s people, God’s wrath against his people, the repentance of God’s people, God offering his people forgiveness, and God blessing his people once again. The book of Ruth zooms in on one specific family living during the time of the judges, Naomi and her daughter in law, Ruth. When Boaz agrees to marry Ruth and redeem her family, the author (through the empowering of the Holy Spirit) is pointing us to our true redeemer, Jesus Christ! Quotes: “Judges tells a story of spiral down into rebellion and disaster at every level in the nation of Israel” -Craig Bartholomew “Throughout history, God has promised blessings and cursings, prosperity and calamity. The consistent thing, however, is that either way, God is glorified. Whether the people choose to obey or foolishly fall into sin, His holiness remains perfectly intact. His sovereignty is never threatened. Either way, God wins… although for His people, it is always less painful for Him to be glorified because they are obedient.” -What’s in The Bible “God is saying “there are always glimpses of my grace.”” The Story of Scripture Resource List The Story of Scripture Listening Guide *The beautiful music heard on today’s episode is by Katie Cobbs*

Click to watch the video https://youtu.be/DR7AlKyL6eY GREATER GLORY OF GOD Presents Advent Special JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM Sixteenth Day in the company of Ruth – the Faithful Daughter-in-law Now, Let me give you a quick synopsis of the Book of Ruth. To start out, a woman by the name of Naomi packed up and moved from Judah to Moab due to a terrible famine that was affecting her family. She and her husband moved there with their two sons, who eventually took wives while living in Moab. Tragically, Naomi lost her husband and two sons. Broken and empty, Naomi decided to move back to Bethlehem in Judah. Her daughter-in-law Ruth came with her, since she had also lost her husband. Keep in mind that Ruth was a Moabite woman, and she was now moving to Judah as a foreigner. This was a big deal in their culture, but she was committed to Naomi as her daughter-in-law, and she wanted to follow after the God of Israel. But once there they have to provide for themselves. Since it's time for the barley harvest, Ruth decides to glean from a field. Although she doesn't know it, the field she chooses belongs to a wealthy kinsman of Elimelech named Boaz. When Boaz visits the field and hears of Ruth's loyalty to his kin Naomi, he instructs his workers to allow her to glean unmolested and even to leave additional grain in her path. Meanwhile, in seeking to find a husband for Ruth, Naomi advises her to go to the threshing floor on the night Boaz winnows barley, to wash and prepare herself, and to uncover Boaz's feet and lie next to them while he sleeps. This Ruth does. When Boaz awakes, startled to find Ruth at his feet, she asks him to spread his robe over her—a symbolic act of espousal—because Boaz is a “redeeming kinsman,” that is, one who has a right to redeem Elimelech's property and at the same time to marry his son's widow so as “to perpetuate the name of the deceased upon his estate” (Ruth 4:5). Boaz, impressed that Ruth has chosen him, an older man, out of family loyalty, agrees with enthusiasm to have her, so long as the one man in Bethlehem who is a closer redeeming kinsman does not want Ruth for himself. The matter is soon settled. When Boaz and the eligible kinsman meet at the city gate, the other man says to Boaz, “You take over my right of redemption, for I am unable to exercise it” (Ruth 4:6). And as was the custom in Israel, Boaz takes off his sandal to validate the transaction of his becoming redeemer - Abraham is reflected here – leaving her own people - How come ???? famine takes place – Naomi, along with her husband and tow sons go to Moab – all three men die – Orpah, one of the daughters-in-law chooses to stay back with her own people and Ruth – a Moabite coming to Israel and that too as a member of the family of Judah – gets redeemed by Boaz – gets married to him – bears a son Obed - Example of Rachel and Leah given for bringing up children through their slave-girls (Listen to the Tenth day – Joseph) - Example of Tamar – took the risk of luring her own father-in-law Judah to bear sons (Listen to the Eleventh Day – Tamar) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/greatergloryofgod/message

When Boaz takes Ruth as his wife, when he redeems her, it gives us a beautiful picture of what Jesus has done for us.

In Podcast Episode 83, “Prayer of Blessing: Unleashing Unlimited Power,” Kim discusses the unlimited power of God which is released when humble, willing hearts pray for others. Boaz, a godly man of integrity, has chosen to fulfill his role as a kinsman-redeemer for Ruth and Naomi. This paints a picture of our own kinsman-redeemer, Jesus Christ. When Boaz publicly proclaims his commitment to redeem Ruth, the witnesses pray a prayer of blessing over them both. However, little did they know how God would answer their prayers for this couple and their offspring far beyond anything they could have imagined. For whom do you need to pray and unleash the unlimited power of God?   The primary scripture text for this episode is Ruth 4:1-12, with focal verses of 11-12:   11 Then the elders and all the people standing in the gate replied, “We are witnesses! May the Lord make this woman who is coming into your home like Rachel and Leah, from whom all the nation of Israel descended! May you prosper in Ephrathah and be famous in Bethlehem. 12 And may the Lord give you descendants by this young woman who will be like those of our ancestor Perez, the son of Tamar and Judah.”   SOME IDEAS FOR SCRIPTURAL PRAYERS FOR OTHERS: Please give ______ a spirit of power, love, and self-discipline. (Ref. 2 Tim. 1:7) Please draw ____ back to _______ first love. (ref. Rev. 2:4) Please show ____ the truth, and may the truth set _________ free. (John 8:32 NLT) May _____ trust in You with ALL _______ heart and not depend on ___________ own understanding. May _______ seek Your will in all _________ does, and show _______ which path to take. (Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT, adapted).  Please keep ____ in perfect peace as ______ trusts in You and keeps ______thoughts fixed on You! (ref: Isaiah 26:3 NLT) Holy Spirit, please pray for ______ with groanings that cannot be expressed in words about needs only You can know. (Ref. Rom. 8:26) May Your Word be a lamp to guide ____ feet and a light for _____ path. (Psalm 119:105) May the Lord keep ___ from all harm and watch over _______ life. May the Lord keep watch over ___ as he/she come and go, both now and forever. (Ref. 121:7-8) Let _____ hear of Your unfailing love each morning, may ________ trust You. Show _______ where to walk, and may ________ give ______ to you. (Ref. 143:8) Please give ______ ears to hear Your voice as You tell ________ the way _____ should go. (Ref. Is. 30:21) May _____ know that You are holding _____ right hand and speak to __________heart that You are there to help ________ (Ref. Is. 41:13) Please show ___ the godly way and give _________ the courage to walk in it, that ________ will find rest for ________ soul. (Ref. Jer. 6:16) May ____trust in the You and make You _______ hope and confidence. May his/her roots reach deep into the living water and have a resilient faith. (Ref. Jer. 17:7-8) May _____ know the plans You have for _______, pray, and look for God wholeheartedly. (Ref. Jer. 29:11-13) May ___ know there is nothing too hard for You!  (Ref. Jer. 32:17) May ______ accept Christ Jesus as _______ Lord. (Ref. Col. 2:6a) Since You are not wanting anyone to perish, may ____ come to repentance. (Ref. 2 Peter 3:9 NIV) Please open ___'s mind to understand the Scriptures. (Ref. Luke 24:45) May Your peace, which transcends all understanding, guard ____'s  heart and mind in Christ Jesus. (Ref. Phil. 4:7 NIV) Please heal _____'s broken heart and bind up _________ wounds. (Ref. Psalm 147:3 NIV) May ____ be strong and courageous, not afraid or discouraged and know You are with _____ wherever _______goes. (Ref. Joshua 1:9 NLT) Please free ___ from all _______ irrational fears. (Ref. Psalms 34:4 NLT) Please cover ___ with Your feathers and shelter _______ with Your wings.(Ref. Psalms 91:4a NLT) Please order Your angels to protect ____ wherever _______ goes. (Ref. Psalms 91:11 NLT) Please guide _____ with Your hand and support _______ with Your strength. (Ref. Psalms 139:10 NLT) Please search _____ and know _____ heart; test _____ and know _____ anxious thoughts. Point out anything in ______ that offends You, and lead _____ along the path of everlasting life. (Ref. Psalms 139:23-24 NLT) Please rescue ___ from evil people. Protect ______ from those who are violent, those who plot evil in their hearts and stir up trouble all day long. (Ref. Psalms 140:1-2 NLT) Please set a guard over _____'s mouth and keep watch over the door of his/her lips. (Ref. Psalm 141:3 NIV) Please give _______ wisdom in all matters. (Ref. James 1:5 NLT) May _____ live a life worthy of You and please You in every way. (Ref. Col. 1:10a NIV) May the word of the Lord is ring out from ____ to people everywhere. (Rer. 1 Thess. 1:8a NLT) May You. the God of peace, make _______ holy in every way. (Ref. 1 Thess. 5:23a NLT) May ____ not stifle the Holy Spirit. (Ref. 1 Thess. 5:19 NLT) May ____ stay away from every kind of evil. (Ref. 1 Thess, 5:22 NLT) Please teach ____ Your ways, O Lord, that _____may live according to Your truth. Grant _______purity of heart, so that _______ may honor You. (Ref. Psalm 86:11) May _____ live a clean, innocent life as a child of God, shining like a bright light in a world full of crooked and perverse people. (Ref. Phil. 2:15b) May _____press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed _____. (Ref. Phil. 3:12b) May _____ seek Your Kingdom above all else, and live righteously, and give ______everything _____needs. (Ref. Matt. 6:33 Please show ______ You are faithful and show _____ a way out of temptation. (Ref. 1 Cor. 10:13) Please show Your power through _______'s weakness. (Ref. 2 Cor. 12:9) May ____ never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. (Ref. Rom. 12:11) Please don't let ______ think about ways to indulge _________ evil desires. (Ref. Rom. 13:14b) Please comfort ______ in all ________ troubles so that ______ can comfort others with the same comfort God has given ______. (Ref. 2 Cor. 1:4) Please stand with _____ and give ______ strength. (Ref. 2 Tim. 4:17) May ____'s  roots grow down into You and let _____ life be built on You. May _______ faith grow strong in the truth _____ was taught, and may ______ overflow with thankfulness. (Ref. Col. 2:7) May _______ see You, the Lord of Heaven's Armies, and as a result, see ______ as God sees _______.” (Ref. Is. 6:5) May _____ love You with all _______ heart, soul, mind, and strength and love _______ neighbor as _______. (Ref. Mark 12:30-31 NLT) Please send a spiritual "hornet" through ________ until even the hidden sins that hide have perished. (Ref. Deuteronomy 7:20 NIV) May ______ do Your will with all _______ heart.” (Ref. Ephesians 6:6b NLT) May ______  devote ________ to prayer and to the ministry of the Word.” (Ref. Acts 6:4 ESV)     DISASTER RELIEF for the Gulf Coast, Those in the Path of the Wildfires, etc.:   If you would like to contribute to the Disaster Relief efforts, here is one organization with boots on the ground: Southern Baptist Disaster Relief   — and you can choose a particular state.   RESOURCES USED FOR BOOK OF RUTH PODCASTS: “The Wiersbe Bible Commentary: The Complete Old Testament OT in One Volume” “The Tony Evans Bible Commentary: Advancing God's Kingdom Agenda” “Life Application Study Bible” “The Book of Ruth” by Bianca Juarez Otholff (RightNow Media) “Ruth: Your God. My God. A True Story of Love & Redemption” by Tommy Nelson (RightNow Media) “The Girl's Still Got It: Take a Walk with Ruth and the God Who Rocked Her World” by Liz Curtis Higgs “The Swindoll Study Bible: NLT” by Charles R. Swindoll “Love Story: God's Epic Tale of Redemption” by David Platt (RightNow Media) "Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus" Facebook Group:   Our NEW Facebook Group is devoted to providing a place for us to encourage each other through all the seasons of life. Follow the provided link to request admittance into “Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus”—https://www.facebook.com/groups/encouragingothersinlovingjesus/ Feel free to invite others who will be good encouragers and/or need encouragement to follow Jesus. Online Bible Study Courses:   Would you like to take a deeper dive into the book of Joshua and learn more about the Israelite story, join Kim as she teaches “Finding Courage for Life's Battles: Life Lessons from the Book of Joshua.”   To take her FREE 3-Day Online Bible Study entitled “Let  God Transform U through His Word: Why Is Personal Bible Study So Important to Your Christian Life?”.   Check out Kim's website at https://gettinghealthyall4hisglory.com for blog posts and her PDF Printable collection.   Remember, “It's Always a Trust & Obey Kinda Day!”   If you have questions or comments or would like to learn more about how to follow Jesus, please email Kim at gettinghealthyall4hisglory@gmail.com.   National Suicide Prevention Lifeline   1-800-273-8255   https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/   Reference: Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Tyndale House Publishers. Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Wheaton, Ill: Tyndale House Publishers, 2004.

Hello and a lovely Friday morning to you in the name of Jesus. We are still talking about acting a new start and the place of courage in taking this kind of action. We've been looking at the story of Ruth and I want to read the book of Ruth 2:11-12 (NLT) “Yes, I know,” Boaz replied. “But I also know about everything you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband. I have heard how you left your father and mother and your own land to live here among complete strangers. May the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge, reward you fully for what you have done.” God rewards us fully for what we do, not just what we plan to do, not just what we desire , but for what we do. So we see that the actions of Ruth was noticeable by people. She had gone to the field of Boaz. Boaz was a rich man in town, he was like a close relative to Naomi. She went to his field and she was picking some crops. When Boaz saw her, he said who is that? They said oh! That's Ruth, Naomi's girl and he said, call her for me, he said listen, as long as you want anything, make sure you don't leave this field, I've told the men here, they won't stop you, go after the workers, they'll leave things for you and he treated her with so much favour and he was so kind to her. Ruth did not understand why. He said listen, I have heard about everything you've done; I've heard of how you treated your mother-in-law well, how you treated your husband well. I've heard about how you left your country and what you've come to do here and the God of Israel who you have switched to; who you have taken side with, will reward you for all you have done. Understand this, actions taken in faith, actions taken courageously based on our convictions on the word of God can never go unrewarded. Don't let the devil deceive you. Yes, there might be challenges on the way; they might mock you. It might look as if nothing will happen, but the Bible says I've not said to the house of Jacob, I've not said to the people of God to serve me in vain. Understand that it's not in vain and mind you, God really rewarded Ruth, this man Boaz ultimately became her husband and she became the great grandmother of king David, and she came in the lineage of Jesus. A woman that started out from the tribe of Moab that was cursed, but because of her choices, because she stood with that conviction, because she was courageous enough to act on them, and take some major difficult decision and acted in spite of the opposition, she was fully rewarded. I pray in the name of Jesus, as you keep acting courageously based on God's word, based on your conviction in His word, you will not loose your reward in Jesus name. May God bless you and God keep you! Have a lovely weekend and have a blessed day.

Today's Bible Translation Bible translation used in today's episode: Ch. 1-4 NIV Support Please remember that this is a listener supported show. Your support of any amount is needed and very much appreciated. Find out how by clicking here. Thoughts I love this little book. The main characters Naomi, Ruth and Boaz are good and honorable people. Some of the people we’ve read about recently have not been overflowing with integrity, so it’s nice to read about good people for a change, don’t you think? Naomi and Ruth seem to be gently and loving women.  And Boaz seems so gracious. Notice how he greeted those who were working in his field. “The Lord be with you.” It seems like he genuinely liked them, that he didn’t look down on them as mere servants. I think their response confirms that: “The Lord bless you!” Notice how the Lord directs our paths even before we know Him. Ruth had no idea that this field belonged to a relative of Naomi. But God knew, and He brought Boaz’s attention to her as she followed the harvesters, picking up the scraps they left behind. Speaking of Ruth, there was something we read today that might have caused you to raise your eyebrows a bit. When Boaz was sleeping on the threshing floor and Ruth came in to lie at his feet, did that seem to you that she was being improper? Like maybe she was throwing herself at him?  It wasn’t, really. According to Hebrew law, when a man died, his closest relative was to take his wife as his own. And since Ruth’s mother-in-law, Naomi, was not aware of a closer relative than Boaz, she must have told Ruth that Boaz was to be her husband, since Ruth’s husband had died. So actually, Ruth’s actions that night were somewhat restrained, since she laid by Boaz’s feet instead of lying next to him.  And Boaz, this man of integrity, carefully restrained himself as well, even taking care to have her leave before anyone should see Ruth there. He knew that there was a closer relative that had first right of refusal, and he didn’t want Ruth’s good name compromised. These were, without a doubt, good and honorable people. Do you remember how yesterday’s episode ended? Remember that I told you that Perez is in Jesus’ genealogy? Well, guess what. So is Ruth. Yep. So that’s a nice bit of history to tuck into your memory banks.

Ruth 3:6-11 6 So she went down to the threshing floor and did everything her mother-in-law told her to do. 7 When Boaz had finished eating and drinking and was in good spirits, he went over to lie down at the far end of the grain pile. Ruth approached quietly, uncovered his feet and lay down. 8 In the middle of the night something startled the man; he turned—and there was a woman lying at his feet! 9 “Who are you?” he asked. “I am your servant Ruth,” she said. “Spread the corner of your garment over me, since you are a guardian-redeemer of our family.” 10 “The Lord bless you, my daughter,” he replied. “This kindness is greater than that which you showed earlier: You have not run after the younger men, whether rich or poor. 11 And now, my daughter, don’t be afraid. I will do for you all you ask. All the people of my town know that you are a woman of noble character. 

Ruth 3:7-13 ESV 7 And when Boaz had eaten and drunk, and his heart was merry, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain. Then she came softly and uncovered his feet and lay down. 8 At midnight the man was startled and turned over, and behold, a woman lay at his feet! 9 He said, “Who are you?” And she answered, “I am Ruth, your servant. Spread your wings over your servant, for you are a redeemer.” 10 And he said, “May you be blessed by the Lord, my daughter. You have made this last kindness greater than the first in that you have not gone after young men, whether poor or rich. 11 And now, my daughter, do not fear. I will do for you all that you ask, for all my fellow townsmen know that you are a worthy woman. 12 And now it is true that I am a redeemer. Yet there is a redeemer nearer than I. 13 Remain tonight, and in the morning, if he will redeem you, good; let him do it. But if he is not willing to redeem you, then, as the Lord lives, I will redeem you. Lie down until the morning.” A GRACIOUS REDEEMER. When Boaz found out that a woman was lying down at his feet at midnight, he was scared to the living daylights of him. She answered, “I am Ruth, your servant. Spread your wings over your servant, for you are a redeemer.” This was a bold, daring and straightforward request, was it not? Boaz could harmed her. But, her trust for the goodness of Boaz prevailed. In an unguarded moment like this, a person's true character is revealed, is it not? Boaz, who has had a pure heart, had blessed and commended Ruth for showing greater kindness by her request. If not for this, Ruth wouldn't have been that courageous to approach him, would she? This was a whirlwind love story. Immediately, Boaz had committed himself what she asked for. For him, here was no doubt that she was a worthy woman, which means virtous or of noble character. Even, the townfolks had recognized it. Like Boaz, Jesus is full of “grace and truth.”[John 1:16] He claimed as the only One, who can satisfy us, by saying, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.” [John 6:35] Such goodness of Jesus should encourage us to draw unto Him boldly, shouldn't we? Didn't He challenge us, like the Samaritan woman, to ask Him the ‘living water.' [John 4:10] Jesus is much gracious and tender than we know. As the writer of Hebrews had pointed out, “Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” [Heb 4:14-16] In the gospels, a story is told about the Canaanite woman, with a demonized daughter as a good example of one having such genuine faith in Jesus. She cried for His attention to heal her daughter. But, the disciples drove her away. Yet, she insisted. Jesus even had tested her by saying, “It is not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs.” She said, “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table.” Then Jesus answered her, “O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire.” And her daughter was healed instantly.” [Matt 15:26-29] The graciousness of the Savior should draw us to Himself, even the world's worst sinner.

Ruth and Boaz at the Threshing Floor One day Ruth’s mother-in-law Naomi said to her, “My daughter, I must find a home[a] for you, where you will be well provided for. 2 Now Boaz, with whose women you have worked, is a relative of ours. Tonight he will be winnowing barley on the threshing floor. 3 Wash, put on perfume, and get dressed in your best clothes. Then go down to the threshing floor, but don’t let him know you are there until he has finished eating and drinking. 4 When he lies down, note the place where he is lying. Then go and uncover his feet and lie down. He will tell you what to do.” 5 “I will do whatever you say,” Ruth answered. 6 So she went down to the threshing floor and did everything her mother-in-law told her to do. 7 When Boaz had finished eating and drinking and was in good spirits, he went over to lie down at the far end of the grain pile. Ruth approached quietly, uncovered his feet and lay down. 8 In the middle of the night something startled the man; he turned—and there was a woman lying at his feet! 9 “Who are you?” he asked. “I am your servant Ruth,” she said. “Spread the corner of your garment over me, since you are a guardian-redeemer[b] of our family.” 10 “The Lord bless you, my daughter,” he replied. “This kindness is greater than that which you showed earlier: You have not run after the younger men, whether rich or poor. 11 And now, my daughter, don’t be afraid. I will do for you all you ask. All the people of my town know that you are a woman of noble character. 12 Although it is true that I am a guardian-redeemer of our family, there is another who is more closely related than I. 13 Stay here for the night, and in the morning if he wants to do his duty as your guardian-redeemer, good; let him redeem you. But if he is not willing, as surely as the Lord lives I will do it. Lie here until morning.” 14 So she lay at his feet until morning, but got up before anyone could be recognized; and he said, “No one must know that a woman came to the threshing floor.” 15 He also said, “Bring me the shawl you are wearing and hold it out.” When she did so, he poured into it six measures of barley and placed the bundle on her. Then he[c] went back to town. 16 When Ruth came to her mother-in-law, Naomi asked, “How did it go, my daughter?” Then she told her everything Boaz had done for her 17 and added, “He gave me these six measures of barley, saying, ‘Don’t go back to your mother-in-law empty-handed.’” 18 Then Naomi said, “Wait, my daughter, until you find out what happens. For the man will not rest until the matter is settled today.”

Ruth and Boaz at the Threshing Floor One day Ruth’s mother-in-law Naomi said to her, “My daughter, I must find a home[a] for you, where you will be well provided for. 2 Now Boaz, with whose women you have worked, is a relative of ours. Tonight he will be winnowing barley on the threshing floor. 3 Wash, put on perfume, and get dressed in your best clothes. Then go down to the threshing floor, but don’t let him know you are there until he has finished eating and drinking. 4 When he lies down, note the place where he is lying. Then go and uncover his feet and lie down. He will tell you what to do.” 5 “I will do whatever you say,” Ruth answered. 6 So she went down to the threshing floor and did everything her mother-in-law told her to do. 7 When Boaz had finished eating and drinking and was in good spirits, he went over to lie down at the far end of the grain pile. Ruth approached quietly, uncovered his feet and lay down. 8 In the middle of the night something startled the man; he turned—and there was a woman lying at his feet! 9 “Who are you?” he asked. “I am your servant Ruth,” she said. “Spread the corner of your garment over me, since you are a guardian-redeemer[b] of our family.” 10 “The Lord bless you, my daughter,” he replied. “This kindness is greater than that which you showed earlier: You have not run after the younger men, whether rich or poor. 11 And now, my daughter, don’t be afraid. I will do for you all you ask. All the people of my town know that you are a woman of noble character. 12 Although it is true that I am a guardian-redeemer of our family, there is another who is more closely related than I. 13 Stay here for the night, and in the morning if he wants to do his duty as your guardian-redeemer, good; let him redeem you. But if he is not willing, as surely as the Lord lives I will do it. Lie here until morning.” 14 So she lay at his feet until morning, but got up before anyone could be recognized; and he said, “No one must know that a woman came to the threshing floor.” 15 He also said, “Bring me the shawl you are wearing and hold it out.” When she did so, he poured into it six measures of barley and placed the bundle on her. Then he[c] went back to town. 16 When Ruth came to her mother-in-law, Naomi asked, “How did it go, my daughter?” Then she told her everything Boaz had done for her 17 and added, “He gave me these six measures of barley, saying, ‘Don’t go back to your mother-in-law empty-handed.’” 18 Then Naomi said, “Wait, my daughter, until you find out what happens. For the man will not rest until the matter is settled today.”

Ruth 3-4 New International Version (NIV) Ruth and Boaz at the Threshing Floor 3 One day Ruth's mother-in-law Naomi said to her, "My daughter, I must find a home[a] for you, where you will be well provided for. 2 Now Boaz, with whose women you have worked, is a relative of ours. Tonight he will be winnowing barley on the threshing floor. 3 Wash, put on perfume, and get dressed in your best clothes. Then go down to the threshing floor, but don't let him know you are there until he has finished eating and drinking. 4 When he lies down, note the place where he is lying. Then go and uncover his feet and lie down. He will tell you what to do." 5 "I will do whatever you say," Ruth answered. 6 So she went down to the threshing floor and did everything her mother-in-law told her to do. 7 When Boaz had finished eating and drinking and was in good spirits, he went over to lie down at the far end of the grain pile. Ruth approached quietly, uncovered his feet and lay down. 8 In the middle of the night something startled the man; he turned—and there was a woman lying at his feet! 9 "Who are you?" he asked. "I am your servant Ruth," she said. "Spread the corner of your garment over me, since you are a guardian-redeemer[b] of our family." 10 "The Lord bless you, my daughter," he replied. "This kindness is greater than that which you showed earlier: You have not run after the younger men, whether rich or poor. 11 And now, my daughter, don't be afraid. I will do for you all you ask. All the people of my town know that you are a woman of noble character. 12 Although it is true that I am a guardian-redeemer of our family, there is another who is more closely related than I. 13 Stay here for the night, and in the morning if he wants to do his duty as your guardian-redeemer, good; let him redeem you. But if he is not willing, as surely as the Lord lives I will do it. Lie here until morning." 14 So she lay at his feet until morning, but got up before anyone could be recognized; and he said, "No one must know that a woman came to the threshing floor." 15 He also said, "Bring me the shawl you are wearing and hold it out." When she did so, he poured into it six measures of barley and placed the bundle on her. Then he[c] went back to town. 16 When Ruth came to her mother-in-law, Naomi asked, "How did it go, my daughter?" Then she told her everything Boaz had done for her 17 and added, "He gave me these six measures of barley, saying, 'Don't go back to your mother-in-law empty-handed.'" 18 Then Naomi said, "Wait, my daughter, until you find out what happens. For the man will not rest until the matter is settled today." Boaz Marries Ruth 4 Meanwhile Boaz went up to the town gate and sat down there just as the guardian-redeemer[d] he had mentioned came along. Boaz said, "Come over here, my friend, and sit down." So he went over and sat down. 2 Boaz took ten of the elders of the town and said, "Sit here," and they did so. 3 Then he said to the guardian-redeemer, "Naomi, who has come back from Moab, is selling the piece of land that belonged to our relative Elimelek. 4 I thought I should bring the matter to your attention and suggest that you buy it in the presence of these seated here and in the presence of the elders of my people. If you will redeem it, do so. But if you[e] will not, tell me, so I will know. For no one has the right to do it except you, and I am next in line." "I will redeem it," he said. 5 Then Boaz said, "On the day you buy the land from Naomi, you also acquire Ruth the Moabite, the[f] dead man's widow, in order to maintain the name of the dead with his property." 6 At this, the guardian-redeemer said, "Then I cannot redeem it because I might endanger my own estate. You redeem it yourself. I cannot do it." 7 (Now in earlier times in Israel, for the redemption and transfer of property to become final, one party took off his sandal and gave it to the other. This was the method of legalizing transactions in Israel.) 8 So the guardian-redeemer said to Boaz, "Buy it yourself." And he removed his sandal. 9 Then Boaz announced to the elders and all the people, "Today you are witnesses that I have bought from Naomi all the property of Elimelek, Kilion and Mahlon. 10 I have also acquired Ruth the Moabite, Mahlon's widow, as my wife, in order to maintain the name of the dead with his property, so that his name will not disappear from among his family or from his hometown. Today you are witnesses!" 11 Then the elders and all the people at the gate said, "We are witnesses. May the Lord make the woman who is coming into your home like Rachel and Leah, who together built up the family of Israel. May you have standing in Ephrathah and be famous in Bethlehem. 12 Through the offspring the Lord gives you by this young woman, may your family be like that of Perez, whom Tamar bore to Judah." Naomi Gains a Son 13 So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife. When he made love to her, the Lord enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son. 14 The women said to Naomi: "Praise be to the Lord, who this day has not left you without a guardian-redeemer. May he become famous throughout Israel! 15 He will renew your life and sustain you in your old age. For your daughter-in-law, who loves you and who is better to you than seven sons, has given him birth." 16 Then Naomi took the child in her arms and cared for him. 17 The women living there said, "Naomi has a son!" And they named him Obed. He was the father of Jesse, the father of David. The Genealogy of David 18 This, then, is the family line of Perez: Perez was the father of Hezron, 19 Hezron the father of Ram, Ram the father of Amminadab, 20 Amminadab the father of Nahshon, Nahshon the father of Salmon,[g] 21 Salmon the father of Boaz, Boaz the father of Obed, 22 Obed the father of Jesse, and Jesse the father of David.

Ruth 3 Ruth and Boaz at the Threshing Floor 3 One day Ruth’s mother-in-law Naomi said to her, “My daughter, I must find a home[a] for you, where you will be well provided for. 2 Now Boaz, with whose women you have worked, is a relative of ours. Tonight he will be winnowing barley on the threshing floor. 3 Wash, put on perfume, and get dressed in your best clothes. Then go down to the threshing floor, but don’t let him know you are there until he has finished eating and drinking. 4 When he lies down, note the place where he is lying. Then go and uncover his feet and lie down. He will tell you what to do.” 5 “I will do whatever you say,” Ruth answered. 6 So she went down to the threshing floor and did everything her mother-in-law told her to do. 7 When Boaz had finished eating and drinking and was in good spirits, he went over to lie down at the far end of the grain pile. Ruth approached quietly, uncovered his feet and lay down. 8 In the middle of the night something startled the man; he turned—and there was a woman lying at his feet! 9 “Who are you?” he asked. “I am your servant Ruth,” she said. “Spread the corner of your garment over me, since you are a guardian-redeemer[b] of our family.” 10 “The Lord bless you, my daughter,” he replied. “This kindness is greater than that which you showed earlier: You have not run after the younger men, whether rich or poor. 11 And now, my daughter, don’t be afraid. I will do for you all you ask. All the people of my town know that you are a woman of noble character. 12 Although it is true that I am a guardian-redeemer of our family, there is another who is more closely related than I. 13 Stay here for the night, and in the morning if he wants to do his duty as your guardian-redeemer, good; let him redeem you. But if he is not willing, as surely as the Lord lives I will do it. Lie here until morning.” 14 So she lay at his feet until morning, but got up before anyone could be recognized; and he said, “No one must know that a woman came to the threshing floor.” 15 He also said, “Bring me the shawl you are wearing and hold it out.” When she did so, he poured into it six measures of barley and placed the bundle on her. Then he[c] went back to town. 16 When Ruth came to her mother-in-law, Naomi asked, “How did it go, my daughter?” Then she told her everything Boaz had done for her 17 and added, “He gave me these six measures of barley, saying, ‘Don’t go back to your mother-in-law empty-handed.’” 18 Then Naomi said, “Wait, my daughter, until you find out what happens. For the man will not rest until the matter is settled today.”

I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. God’s love is unfailing, loyal, faithful, stubborn, inexhaustible, and enduring. Hosea & Gomer – God is unwilling to let us go. He will not cut the bonds of love. God's love is merciful. He desires reconciliation, peace, forgiveness. He does not hold grudges. “The Lord is compassionate (merciful), gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. (His Name) Today, God’s redeeming love. Job lost everything, his sons and daughters, his livestock, his health. He was empty, broken, and hopeless. Talking to his “friends”…. Job 19:13-27 Though Job has suffered terribly, lost sons and daughters, wealth, friends… He knows that God is his redeemer and that God will not leave him empty, broken, hopeless. God is his Redeemer, Deliverer, Avenger. In the midst of all his trouble, Job says, “I know that my Redeemer lives!” There is hope for Job; there is hope for you and me.
God is our Redeemer – he takes up our cause. He will stand on the earth – and we will see him with our own eyes. 
Redemption in the Bible is to pay the price to secure the release of a person, animal or property • Prisoners could be redeemed by the payment of a ransom. (padah) • Slaves could be redeemed by paying a price to purchase their freedom. (padah) • Property that once belonged to a family but that was lost or sold could be bought back so that it could be brought back under the family name. In fact, Israelite law gave family members of a deceased person the right to buy back property that had been lost so that it could be brought back (redeemed) under the family name. This is the background of the book of Ruth. Ruth is a young widow – he husband had died.
She was not a Jew, so, when her husband dies, her mother-in-law, Naomi, encouraged her to go back to her own people, the Moabites. But Ruth is unwilling to leave her alone – Naomi was a widow too. The first part of the book shows Ruth’s great love for her mother-in-law, Naomi. Ruth is unwilling to leave her, unwilling to leave her alone. Naomi had no sons, no husband, and no hope of any life, but the life of poverty. Ruth was unwilling to leave her alone and hopeless. Themes: bitter/pleasant. Empty/full. Ruth, by the providence of God, as she picks up dropped grains, meets a man named Boaz. It turns out that Boaz is a relative of Ruth’s husband. Boaz is kind to Ruth and makes sure that his servants leave a little extra grain behind for her to pick up. The turning point in the story is when Naomi’s bitterness and emptiness finds hope. Ruth 2:20 “The Lord bless him!” Naomi said to her daughter-in-law. “He has not stopped showing his kindness to the living and the dead.” She added, “That man is our close relative; he is one of our kinsman-redeemers.” In Jewish law and practice, the “kinsman-redeemer” was the next closest living relative responsible for protecting the interests of needy family members. • Provide an heir for a brother who had died. • Redeem land that a poor relative had sold. • Redeem a relative who had been sold into slavery. • Avenge the killing of a relative – also translated “avenger” When Boaz learns of Ruth’s state, he makes up his mind to do something about it. He will buy back the land that belonged to Ruth’s husband and will marry Ruth. The problem: there is a closer relative than Boaz. He has the first right of redemption, but once he hears there’s a widow attached to the property, he relinquishes his right to buy the property. Ruth 4:6-10 The book of Ruth is about two people showing God’s love. Ruth’s unwillingness to leave her mother-in-law alone and hopeless. Boaz’ love for Ruth to be kind to her, not to leave her a widow, but to provide for her and pay the price to buy back the land to restore Ruth’s husband’s name. This is God’s redeeming love, not willing to leave us, willing to pay the price to save us.
 John 15:13 – Jesus’ redeeming love. He was unwilling to leave us, willing to pay the price. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. God would not leave us alone, empty, broken, hopeless. He willingly paid the price to save us.