And let fall also some of the handfuls of purpose for her, and leave them, that she may glean them, and rebuke her not. Ruth 2:16 

New Journey

Ruth had always lived in the land of Moab. Recently widowed, with no inherited future husband, what was Ruth to do?  Her mother-in-law Naomi, also widowed, was returning to her native home of Judah. She encouraged Ruth to stay in Moab, but Ruth was determined to make this new journey alongside her mother-in-law. She would make Naomi’s God her God. Nothing but death would separate them; she would die in her new homeland. She was resolute and no one, not even Naomi, could change her mind. 

Arrival   

Judah would now be Ruth’s new home. She and Naomi arrived at the beginning of the barley harvest.

Work by Faith 

Ruth asked Naomi’s permission to glean from the field of her kinsmen because they would need to eat. She was sure she would find grace. Permission was granted and Ruth set out to find work.

In the Right Field

Ruth went and gleaned in the field after the reapers. She providentially worked in a field belonging to Boaz, Naomi’s kinsmen. Boaz was a wealthy and kind man who came to his field and inquired of Ruth. Grace had come. She was instructed to stay in his field where she would be protected.

Handfuls on Purpose

Ruth was thankful for God’s provisions through Boaz. She bowed before him knowing she had found grace in his eyes. She was amazed that he would take notice of a stranger from Moab. He knew she had left her homeland to be faithful to Naomi. Boaz knew the LORD wanted to bless her because she had chosen to trust in the God of Israel. Boaz’s kindness to Ruth did not cease. He fed her, provided her water to drink, and instructed his men to let her glean in the sheaves. They were told to leave her handfuls on purpose.

Abundantly Blessed 

Ruth left Boaz’s field with provisions for weeks to come (Phil. 4:19)

Redemption

Furthermore, Boaz was willing to make a permanent commitment to provide for Ruth. He was not Naomi’s nearest kinsmen but he was willing to redeem Ruth. Through honest proceeders, the nearest kinsmen relinquished his rights and the honor of redemption belonged to Boaz. He paid the price required and Ruth became his purchased bride.

WORDS OF TRUTH

Have you ever took a new journey by faith? (2 Cor. 5:7)

Have you found God’s grace to be sufficient? (2 Cor. 12:9)

What are some ways that Jesus has purposely blessed you? (Eph. 1:11)

Are you thankful for God’s bountiful blessings through Jesus Christ? (2 Cor. 9:11)

Are you Christ’s purchased possession? (Eph. 1:14)