How does Ruth 3:10 demonstrate Ruth's loyalty and faithfulness to Naomi's family? Context of Ruth 3:10 • Naomi sends Ruth to Boaz at the threshing floor to request redemption (Ruth 3:1-9). • Boaz responds: “May the LORD bless you, my daughter. You have shown more kindness now than before, because you have not run after the younger men, whether rich or poor.” (Ruth 3:10) Boaz Identifies Ruth’s “Greater Kindness” • “Kindness” translates the Hebrew hesed—steadfast covenant loyalty. • Boaz calls this act “more” than her earlier kindness of leaving Moab (Ruth 2:11; 1:16-17). • By choosing Boaz—an older kinsman-redeemer—instead of “younger men,” Ruth places family duty over personal preference. How This Displays Loyalty to Naomi’s Family • Securing Redemption – Boaz can restore Elimelech’s land (Ruth 4:3-4). – A son born to Ruth will carry Mahlon’s name, preserving Naomi’s line (Ruth 4:10). • Sacrificial Choice – Ruth sets aside potential youthful romance or wealth to protect Naomi’s inheritance. – Parallels Jesus’ call to self-denial for others (Philippians 2:4-8). • Alignment with God’s Law – Echoes the spirit of Deuteronomy 25:5-10 (levirate responsibility). • Consistent Character – From gleaning (Ruth 2:2-3) to the threshing floor, Ruth’s actions flow from the same heart of faithfulness. Results of Ruth’s Faithful Loyalty • Immediate Blessing – Boaz pronounces the LORD’s blessing, affirming divine favor (cf. Proverbs 3:3-4). • Community Witness – Town elders honor Ruth as “better than seven sons” (Ruth 4:15). • Messianic Line Secured – Obed → Jesse → David → Christ (Ruth 4:17; Matthew 1:5-6, 16). • Ongoing Testimony – Ruth’s life embodies Proverbs 31:10-12, 28-31 and stands as a model of covenant love. Key Takeaways • Loyalty is proven by choices that advance God’s redemptive purposes, even at personal cost. • Faithfulness shines brightest when personal advantage is laid aside for family and covenant duty. • God honors steadfast devotion with blessings that ripple far beyond the immediate moment. |
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