Today we will look at the very practical ways that Boaz honors Ruth (and others) in ways that are strong and masculine, while not being chauvinistic. Boaz is a great catch for Ruth based on 15 indicators in the text.
His character (Ruth 2:1).
Boaz isn’t afraid to show that he knows God! (Ruth 2:4)
He NOTICES. (Ruth 2:5) • Boaz honors what is front of him.
Boaz provides friendship and community. (Ruth 2:8)
Boaz protects Ruth.
Boaz tells Ruth her character is beautiful. (Ruth 2:11)
Boaz honors her publicly.
Boaz prays for her. (Ruth 2:12)
Boaz comforts her. (Ruth 2:13)
Boaz offers grace.
Boaz feeds her. (Ruth 2:14)
Boaz serves Ruth.
Boaz treats Ruth with respect and in turn treats Naomi with respect. (Ruth 2:14)
Boaz invests in those around him. (Ruth 2:15)
Ruth is a book providence and redemption. In one sense all of the Bible is about God’s providence and Redemption, but it is very strongly pronounced in Ruth; it is one of the reasons we are calling the series “The Story Within the Story.” All of our stories find meaning and hope within God’s larger story of us. Providence simply means God’s care and guidance over His creation, but when it comes to our lives we should have an understanding that He knows all that has been done to us and all that we have done…and that He can make things work out for His glory and our ultimate joy.
