LESSON 681: RUTH FINDS FAVOUR WITH BOAZ MEMORY VERSE: ”And now, my daughter, fear not; I will do to thee all that thou requirest: for all the city of my people doth know that thou art a virtuous woman” (Ruth 3:11) TEXT: Ruth 3:1-18

SUMMARY (1) From our last study, we learnt the following lessons: In the time of adversity, we should remain steadfast and consistent. We should use our position to help the less privileged. A Christian employer should maintain a free and fearless atmosphere with his/her employees. Adversity is no reason to sit down in self-pity; we should arise and labour. A believer should give adequate report of his activities. He should also show concern for the welfare of his/her employer. The study of today touches on three points: Naomi’s instruction to Ruth. Ruth’s proposal and Boaz’s adherence to the scripture. Gift from Boaz and hope of redemption by a kinsman.

SUMMARY (2) Naomi’s instruction to Ruth (Ruth 3:1-5): Naomi, as a true mother, sought marital rest for Ruth as one would to a daughter. She took the scriptural path in connecting Ruth to Boaz as a near kinsman. She instructed Ruth on how to approach the matter. We can emulate this. Ruth’s proposal and Boaz’s adherence to the scripture (Ruth 3:6-14): Ruth was humble and obedient: she did exactly what she was instructed to do. Boaz was polite and tender towards Ruth. He did not manipulate her but explained the rightful order of a near kinsman to her. He was also chaste. What an example! Ruth needed and accepted guidance though she was an adult. What a lesson to us! Gift from Boaz and hope of redemption by a kinsman (Ruth 3:15-18): Boaz took charge for Ruth. And beyond words, he gave to relieve the poor widows. Naomi was confident of Boaz; we can trust Jesus, our worthy Kinsman-Redeemer.

DISCUSSION

QUESTION 1 From the text, what kind of rest was Naomi seeking for Ruth? Ruth 3:1 Ruth 1:9 I Timothy 5:14

QUESTION 2 What can believers learn from Naomi’s concern for Ruth’s marital status? Ruth 3:1 Philippians 2:4 Galatians 5:14

QUESTION 3 From the godly example of Boaz and Ruth, how should intending couples relate before wedding? Luke 1:26,27,34 Hebrews 13:4 Hebrews 12:14

QUESTION 4 What should be the responsibility of believers towards widows? 1 Timothy 5:3,4,16 James 1:27

QUESTION 5 What should be the believer’s attitude towards God’s promises? Romans 4:18,20 Acts 27:25 Numbers 23:19

CONCLUSION Naomi showed concern for Ruth’s marital rest and took practical steps of instruction and guidance to realise it. So must parents and leaders do. Ruth obeyed instruction though she was an adult. Believers should be humble to take instruction from their leaders or their delegates especially as they embark on new ventures like marriage, ministry, etc. Boaz showed kindness, tenderness, adherence to scriptural standard and purity in dealing with Ruth’s case. Believers should not manipulate others; we should follow the scriptures in our affairs and uphold holiness of life. God favoured Ruth and prospered her. It pays to follow God’s way. Jesus is our Kinsman-Redeemer. He gives rest to those who trust Him.