We’ve been spending time going through the story of Ruth.
She and Naomi have endured loss, heartbreak, and poverty.
For two widows in the ancient world, there isn’t much hope… Until they meet Boaz.
Boaz is a Kinsman Redeemer— a man commissioned by the law to protect his tribe and, in some instances, marry a widow to redeem her situation.
Ruth and Boaz have met. There are sparks… But time is running out.
Naomi comes up with a plan.
She’s been paying attention and sees how Boaz looks out for Ruth.
Naomi’s like, “Girl, it’s time to make a move on this man!” (Okay, maybe she didn’t say it exactly like that, but you get the idea.)
Naomi tells Ruth to wash up, put on some perfume, and head down to the threshing floor where Boaz is working. Ruth’s supposed to wait until he’s eaten and had something to drink—because, y’all know, timing is everything.
Then, she’s supposed to uncover his feet and lie down.
This act might sound strange (and maybe a bit creepy) to us. But back then, it was a way of asking for protection, provision, and marriage.
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Now, this wasn’t a totally crazy idea. Boaz was a Kinsman Redeemer, a role established in Old Testament Law.
A kinsman redeemer was responsible for many things:
It was his role to buy back property that had been lost by a family member.
His role was to defend the family's honor against those who wronged them.
A Kinsman redeemer's optional responsibility was to marry the widow of a family member and restore their assets so their legacy could continue.
And even though Boaz was a Kinsman Redeemer, it didn’t guarantee that he would honor Ruth’s proposal.
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Imagine the courage it took for Ruth to do this. She’s putting herself out there in a big way.
There’s no guarantee Boaz will react the way she’s hoping. He could have rejected her. But Ruth steps out in faith, trusting Naomi’s wisdom and God’s plan.
Maybe you’ve been there too—stepping into something new, not knowing if you’re ready for it but trusting that God’s already gone before you.
Ruth goes to the threshing floor, uncovers Boaz’s feet, and lies down. And when Boaz wakes up, he’s startled to see a woman lying at his feet.
She tells him, “Spread the corner of your garment over me, for you are a kinsman-redeemer.”
Translation: “I’m asking you to be my protector and provider. Will you marry me?”
CONSIDER THIS:
What bold moves have you been putting off? Have you been avoiding vulnerable moments?
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Boaz’s response is so beautiful!
He’s not angry. He’s not offended. He’s honored. He calls Ruth a woman of noble character.
Boaz says he will do everything he can to make it happen.
Boaz points us to the ultimate Kinsman Redeemer—Jesus, the one who will never leave us or forsake us.
This whole chapter makes us think about the power of taking risks with faith.
Sometimes, God’s plan for your life requires you to step out and do something uncomfortable.
Ruth’s story reminds us that God’s favor often waits on the other side of our obedience.
She didn’t just "hope for the best”—she listened to wise counsel, acted in faith, and trusted God with the outcome.
Bold faith leads to big blessings.
Here’s the challenge for you this week: Take the bold step.
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