What role does perseverance play in achieving goals, as seen in Ruth 2:17? Setting the Scene Ruth, a Moabite widow, has committed herself to care for her mother-in-law Naomi. With no income or land, she takes advantage of God’s provision for the poor—gleaning leftover grain in Boaz’s field. Ruth 2:17 “So Ruth gleaned in the field until evening. Then she beat out what she had gleaned, and it was about an ephah of barley.” Observations from Ruth 2:17 • “until evening” – a full day’s labor • “beat out what she had gleaned” – extra work after harvesting • “about an ephah” – roughly 20–30 pounds, an ample supply for two widows Perseverance Explained Literal Scripture repeatedly links perseverance with faithfulness and reward (James 1:12; Hebrews 10:36). It is disciplined, steady obedience despite fatigue or difficulty. How Ruth Models Perseverance • Consistent effort – She stays in the field all day rather than quitting when tired. • Additional diligence – She processes the grain herself instead of postponing the task. • Tangible outcome – Her perseverance yields enough grain to feed her household and gain Boaz’s notice, setting the stage for future blessing (Ruth 2:19–20; 3:11). Goals Realized through Steady Endurance 1. Immediate provision: Ruth achieves the day’s objective—food on the table. 2. Respect and favor: Boaz calls her “a woman of noble character” (Ruth 3:11). 3. Long-term security: Her perseverance positions her for marriage, redemption, and a place in Messiah’s lineage (Ruth 4:13–17; Matthew 1:5). Supporting Scriptures on Perseverance • Galatians 6:9 – “Let us not grow weary in doing good...” • Hebrews 12:1 – “Run with endurance the race set before us...” • Proverbs 13:4 – “The diligent soul is richly supplied.” • 2 Peter 1:5–7 – Add “perseverance” to faith for fruitful living. Practical Ways to Cultivate Ruth-like Perseverance • Set clear, God-honoring goals grounded in Scripture. • Work diligently in the present step; don’t wait for ideal conditions (Ecclesiastes 11:4). • Finish tasks the same day when possible, mirroring Ruth’s “until evening.” • Trust God’s sovereign oversight; obedience in small things invites larger blessing (Luke 16:10). • Recall past faithfulness—Ruth’s ephah reminds us that endurance brings measurable results. |
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