People who live where their relatives have lived, generation after generation, have their established circles of friends. When newcomers arrive often they are accepted on a superficial level. These new people aren’t needed for close friendships.
If you have moved from one town to another or one state to another, you understand how hard it is to establish close ties with the “˜locals’. From my experience, it is much easier to make close friends quickly in an area where others have moved in recent years. There is an openness and hospitality, friendships are extended readily and acceptance on a deeper level is experienced.
Ruth, who was a foreigner although having a close tie to Naomi, would have found it a difficult society in which to “˜break into’ and be accepted.
The hero, Boaz, paves the way among his workers for Ruth. Ruth recognized his help.
(NASB) Ruth 2:10 “Then she fell on her face, bowing to the ground and said to him [Boaz], “˜Why have I found favor in your sight that you should take notice of me, since I am a foreigner?'”
***Ruth recognized her social position in Israel; she was from Moab and a foreigner.
(NASB) Ruth 2:11 “Boaz replied to her, “˜All that you have done for your mother-in-law after the death of your husband has been fully reported to me, and how you left your father and your mother and the land of your birth, and came to a people that you did not previously know.”
***Boaz had inquired about Ruth and her background. Her reputation was dependent on her chosen actions.
What is your reputation in your neighborhood and in your social circle? Your actions speak louder than your words. You and I will be judged on how we respond or react in various situations. Ruth’s care for her mother-in-law was commendable. From where would this have come? It would have come from Naomi’s lips. Naomi was grateful for Ruth’s personal sacrifices on her behalf.
When you think about people you know who are caring for their parents, a spouse who has Alzheimer’s or a terminal illness, do you commend them? Do you pray for them? Do you reach out to them to give them encouragement and if possible, physical help? Do you recognize their sacrificial actions for someone else’s need?
Boaz recognized Ruth’s reputation and sacrificial actions. He commended her choices. Sacrificial actions should be recognized and commended.
(NASB) Ruth 2:12 ” “˜May the Lord reward your work, and your wages be full from the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to seek refuge.'”
***Boaz, a godly man, blessed Ruth by pointing to her reward coming from the Lord.
Boaz recognized her faith in the LORD; the God of Israel Who was her true Refuge.
(NASB) Ruth 2:13 “Then she said, “˜I have found favor in your sight, my lord, for you have comforted me and indeed have spoken kindly to your maidservant, though I am not like one of your maidservants.'”
***Ruth’s humility of character acknowledged Boaz’ favor, comfort and acceptance.
What do your words, actions, attitude and tone of voice reveal about you?
