How does Ruth 4:5 illustrate the importance of fulfilling family responsibilities today? The text itself “Then Boaz said, ‘On the day you buy the field from Naomi, you must also acquire Ruth the Moabitess, the widow of the deceased, in order to raise up the name of the deceased on his inheritance.’” (Ruth 4:5) What was happening in Ruth 4:5? • A nearer relative had first right to buy (“redeem”) Elimelech’s land. • Boaz reminds him that redemption includes marrying Ruth, the widow of Mahlon, so a son could inherit the land in Mahlon’s name (Deuteronomy 25:5-6). • Boaz underscores that family duty goes beyond property; it safeguards a relative’s future, reputation, and legacy. Core principles about family responsibility 1. Responsibility is covenantal, not optional. 2. It may cost personal resources, convenience, and prestige. 3. It seeks the well-being of the vulnerable—widows, orphans, the aging (James 1:27). 4. It preserves the family’s God-given heritage for the next generation (Psalm 78:5-7). Why this matters today • We live in a culture of individualism; God’s Word still calls us to sacrificial commitment toward relatives. • Just as Boaz tied land purchase to Ruth’s future, our financial decisions should consider family impact (Proverbs 13:22). • Fulfilling duty can mean forfeiting short-term gain for long-term blessing—Boaz risked splitting his own estate, yet became ancestor of David and Messiah (Ruth 4:21-22; Matthew 1:5-6). New-covenant echoes • 1 Timothy 5:8 — “If anyone does not provide for his own… he has denied the faith.” • Ephesians 6:1-4 — Parents shepherd; children honor. • Galatians 6:2 — “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Practical ways to “redeem” family responsibilities • Financial integrity: budget to assist aging parents, special-needs siblings, single moms. • Relational presence: regular calls, visits, and mentoring of younger relatives. • Legal foresight: wills, durable powers of attorney, and estate plans that protect dependents. • Spiritual leadership: consistent prayer, Scripture reading, and example in the home (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). • Hospitality: opening your home in crisis, just as Boaz opened his inheritance. Living the Boaz pattern • Look for “Ruths” and “Naomis” in your circle—family members whose future depends on your initiative. • Act before compulsion; Boaz volunteered even though another relative ranked closer. • Trust that God weaves obedience into redemption stories larger than we can foresee (Romans 8:28). Takeaway Ruth 4:5 shows that true family responsibility involves deliberate, sometimes costly action to secure a loved one’s future. God still honors those who, like Boaz, step up to protect, provide, and preserve their family’s inheritance according to His unchanging Word. |
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