Ruth: Providence In Action

We are familiar with the adage, "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade." When life is bitter, endeavor to make something great out of it; this is good advice: do not get downtrodden by the tumult of life's storms; instead, maintain optimism and bring something good from the situation. Here is better advice: when life gives you lemons, watch for when God makes the lemonade. I know that is a bit cheesy; however, is this not what we see repeated in the lives of those who take refuge in the Lord (Ps 34:8)? As we consider narratives of Scripture, time after time, God is taking desperate situations and making something truly incredible out of them. We can note that in more prominent people of Scripture (Joseph and Daniel), but it is also true of the young widow Ruth.

Ruth was dealt a tough hand by life, widowed at a young age. She endeavored to make the best of it. Ruth committed herself to her mother-in-law and, more importantly, to God (1:16, 17). She worked tirelessly to supply for her and Naomi (2:17, 18). She was loyal, humble, hard-working, and adorned with godliness.

God made something special happen in her life. Ruth chapter four is a showcase of providence. As a byproduct of her godliness, Ruth found her redemption in Boaz. Boaz purchased the field of Elimelech and Ruth to be his wife (4:9, 10). On the surface of these verses, we see coincidence; in the concluding verses, we see providence. Verses eighteen through twenty-two provide us with David's genealogy. The significance of such would come to fruition as we would learn of God's covenant with David (2 Sam 7) and later the fulfillment of that covenant, Jesus.

The event of Ruth and Boaz cleaving to one another in marriage would lead to Christ, the Redeemer of mankind. Isn't it true? "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." (Rom 8:28)

Live your life for His honor and allow Him to do the great things.