1. Lesson #3 FIELDS OF BARLEY RUTH FROM START2FINISH

2. EXAMINATION Boaz is described a righteous pillar of the Bethlehem community The Lord, in his providence, guided Ruth to glean in Boaz’s field; Boaz showed remarkable generosity and hospitality to Ruth Ruth returned home from gleaning with a generous amount of grain; Naomi directed her to continue gleaning in Boaz’s fields

3. APPLICATION ON THE JOB—Boaz exhibited loyalty and generosity at work, the one place these traits are least likely to be practiced. GRATITUDE—If we want to survive pain and suffering, we must be willing to unload the heavy burden of privilege and entitlement. SHINE YOUR LIGHT—Jesus encouraged us not to let our left hand know what our right was doing when blessing and giving to others.

4. QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION RUTH FROM START2FINISH

5. 1. Though the Law required farmers to leave some of their harvest for the poor, why did this not guarantee Ruth any food?

6. 2. Was Ruth’s choice of barley fields a result of random luck or divine providence? Explain your answer.

7. 3. What all did Boaz do to exhibit generosity to Ruth?

8. 4. When she learned the identity of Ruth’s benefactor, what was Naomi’s response?

9. 5. Why did Naomi want Ruth to keep gleaning in Boaz’s field?

10. 6. When did you last see God’s providence at work in your life? What emotional response did that “a-ha” moment trigger?

11. QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION RUTH FROM START2FINISH

12. 1. Why is gratitude so crucial in our recovery from grief and pain? How have you recently exhibited an entitled attitude?

13. 2. Have you ever been mistreated by someone in authority over you? How so? How did it make you feel?

14. 3. Who in your life are you least likely to treat with loyalty and generosity? Why? What are some specific things you can do differently to show others the love of Christ?

15. 4. How can doing good for others become a source of pride? Is it acceptable to do the right thing for the wrong reasons? What attitude does Jesus want us to have when we do good?

16. 5. Though God does not need it, how does our obedience to his will help make his providence more effective?