What lessons on God's faithfulness can we apply from Ruth 2:20 today? Scripture focus “Then Naomi said to her daughter-in-law, ‘May he be blessed by the LORD, who has not withdrawn His kindness from the living or the dead.’ She continued, ‘The man is a close relative of ours, one of our kinsman-redeemers.’” (Ruth 2:20) Backdrop of the verse • Naomi and Ruth have returned to Bethlehem destitute. • Ruth “happened” to glean in Boaz’s field (2:3), receiving protection and abundance. • Naomi recognizes God’s hand when she learns Boaz is a kinsman-redeemer, someone legally able to rescue their family line and property (Leviticus 25:25; Deuteronomy 25:5-10). • Her exclamation exposes the heartbeat of the chapter: the LORD’s covenant love (Hebrew ḥesed) remains unbroken in spite of loss. Key observations from Ruth 2:20 • “Has not withdrawn His kindness” — God’s ḥesed is unwavering (Psalm 103:17). • “From the living or the dead” — His faithfulness spans generations and even outlives us (Deuteronomy 7:9). • “One of our kinsman-redeemers” — God’s faithfulness is often channeled through obedient people. Timeless lessons on God’s faithfulness 1. God’s covenant love survives our worst setbacks. • Naomi assumed the Almighty had dealt bitterly with her (1:20-21), yet God was quietly planning blessing (Romans 8:28). 2. God proves faithful both to the living and to the legacy of the dead. • Boaz’s role would preserve Elimelech’s name (4:10); our faithful God treasures every generation (Exodus 3:6). 3. God directs “coincidences” for covenant purposes. • Ruth’s “chance” field choice (2:3) mirrors Proverbs 16:9; Acts 17:26-27. 4. God’s faithfulness is personal but not private. • He works through relationships—Ruth’s loyalty, Boaz’s generosity, Naomi’s counsel. We are invited to become conduits of that same faithfulness (Galatians 6:10). 5. God’s faithfulness awakens praise and renewed hope. • Naomi moves from despair to blessing the LORD, echoing Lamentations 3:22-23. Gratitude becomes the gateway to fresh faith. Living it out today • Hold fast when circumstances sour: God’s ḥesed is still active even if unseen. • Remember loved ones God has called home; His promises continue to honor their prayers and testimony. • Watch for “Boaz moments”—ordinary settings where God may use you to reveal His faithfulness. • Speak words of blessing as Naomi did; declarations of God’s goodness strengthen weary hearts (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Anchor your assurance in the ultimate Kinsman-Redeemer, Jesus Christ, who fulfills and surpasses Boaz’s picture (Ephesians 1:7; Hebrews 13:5; 2 Timothy 2:13). |
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