How does Boaz's response in Ruth 3:10 inspire us to bless others? Setting the Scene Ruth has bravely approached Boaz at the threshing floor, seeking redemption for herself and Naomi. In a culture where widows were vulnerable, her nighttime visit is an act of faith. Boaz’s immediate reaction in Ruth 3:10 frames the entire encounter: “ ‘May the LORD bless you, my daughter,’ he replied. ‘You have shown more kindness now than before, for you have not run after younger men, whether rich or poor.’ ” Boaz’s Response Unpacked • He invokes the covenant name of God—“the LORD”—placing divine blessing at the center. • He speaks tenderly: “my daughter,” affirming her dignity and worth. • He acknowledges Ruth’s kindness (Hebrew: ḥesed), celebrating loyalty over personal advantage. • He immediately gives a verbal blessing before any material provision is arranged. Timeless Principles for Blessing Others • Put God first in every interaction. Boaz’s first words were, “May the LORD bless you.” When our reflex is to point people to God, we lift conversations from the earthly to the eternal (cf. Numbers 6:24–26). • Speak affirming words. Like Boaz’s “my daughter,” address people with respect and warmth (cf. Proverbs 16:24). • Celebrate faithfulness. Boaz spotlights Ruth’s character, not her crisis. Call out the good we see in others (cf. Philippians 1:3–6). • Act promptly. A blessing voiced immediately is often the spark for practical help that follows (cf. James 2:15–16). The Flow of Blessing: Receiving and Giving 1. Recognize God as the ultimate source. Boaz’s blessing is rooted in Yahweh’s covenant love. 2. Receive gratefully. Ruth accepts the blessing without protest, modeling humility. 3. Pass it on. Ruth’s future lineage—culminating in David and ultimately in Christ (Matthew 1:5)—shows how one spoken blessing can echo through generations. Practical Ways to Emulate Boaz Today • Begin conversations with a sincere word acknowledging God’s goodness. • Use endearments that honor, not flatter. Address people as brothers, sisters, friends. • Highlight acts of faithfulness you observe. Send a text, speak it face-to-face, or write a note. • Couple words with deeds: offer a ride, a meal, or financial help when needed. • Remember widows, single parents, and newcomers—those socially vulnerable like Ruth (cf. James 1:27). • Trust God for long-range impact. Our small blessings can weave into His larger redemptive plan. Living the Lesson Boaz’s first instinct is to bless. Following his example, let our reflex be the same: quick to invoke God’s favor, eager to honor faithfulness, ready to back words with concrete care. In doing so, we become channels of the very ḥesed we have received from the Lord. |
    |