How can Ruth's response in Ruth 2:13 guide our interactions with authority? Ruth 2:13 – The Verse Itself “My lord,” she said, “may I continue to find favor in your eyes, for you have comforted me and spoken kindly to your maidservant—though I am not like one of your maidservants.” Setting the Scene • Ruth is a foreign widow gleaning in Boaz’s field. • Boaz, a man of standing, has just offered protection, provision, and encouragement. • Ruth responds with a blend of humility, gratitude, and recognition of Boaz’s authority. Observations About Ruth’s Response • Respectful address: “My lord” acknowledges Boaz’s position. • Desire for ongoing favor: She asks, yet without presumption. • Gratitude for comfort: She highlights his kindness. • Humble self-assessment: She admits she doesn’t “measure up” to his servants. • Recognition of benevolence: She understands that all she receives is mercy, not entitlement. Biblical Principles for Interacting With Authority • Cultivate humility – “Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another” (1 Peter 5:5). • Acknowledge God-given roles – “There is no authority except from God” (Romans 13:1). • Express gratitude – “Appreciate those who diligently labor among you” (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13). • Speak respectfully – “Honor everyone, love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king” (1 Peter 2:17). • Seek favor, not demand rights – “If I have found favor…” echoes Ruth’s posture (compare Genesis 39:4). • Embrace a servant heart – “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as for the Lord” (Colossians 3:23). • Respond to kindness with loyalty – Ruth later proves faithful to Boaz, illustrating Proverbs 3:3-4. How This Looks Today • Address supervisors, elders, or civic leaders with courtesy. • Request guidance or help without entitlement; recognize any favor as grace. • Verbalize appreciation when leaders act justly or kindly. • Keep a realistic view of yourself—valuable in Christ yet never above serving. • Let your consistent, respectful conduct make Christ attractive (Titus 2:9-10). |
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