What is the meaning of Ruth 3:18? “Wait, my daughter” – Naomi speaks tenderly, calling Ruth “my daughter,” underscoring their family bond and Naomi’s authority as mentor (see Ruth 2:2). – The first word is “wait.” Faith often begins with stillness: • Psalm 27:14, “Wait patiently for the LORD; be strong and courageous.” • Exodus 14:13, “Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today.” – Naomi is teaching Ruth that obedience isn’t only doing; sometimes it’s refusing to rush ahead of God. “until you find out how things go” – Ruth has done all that was right and honorable (Ruth 3:10–11). Now the outcome rests with the Lord working through Boaz. – Trust keeps us anchored: • Proverbs 3:5-6 urges us to “trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” • Psalm 37:5 commits our way to Him, promising “He will act.” • Romans 8:28 reminds us God works “all things together for good” for those who love Him. – Naomi’s counsel: let God reveal the next step rather than forcing it. “for he will not rest” – Naomi is confident in Boaz’s character. His diligence was evident in the harvest field (Ruth 2:4-9); it will be the same in the city gates. • Proverbs 22:29 points to the skilled, diligent man who “will serve before kings.” • John 5:17 shows a greater Redeemer: “My Father is always at His work… and I too am working.” • Luke 19:10, “The Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost,” mirrors Boaz’s resolute pursuit of Ruth’s welfare. – Boaz’s indefatigable care models Christ’s relentless commitment to redeem. “unless he has resolved the matter today” – The word “today” stresses urgency. God’s purposes move forward without delay when the time is right. • Deuteronomy 24:15 commands prompt fulfillment of duty; Boaz will do no less. • Isaiah 42:4 foretells of the Servant who “will not grow weak or discouraged till He has established justice.” • 2 Corinthians 6:2 proclaims, “Now is the day of salvation.” Boaz’s haste foreshadows Christ’s finished work accomplished “in a single day” (Zechariah 3:9). – Naomi’s assurance encourages Ruth—and us—that godly responsibility joined to God’s timing produces swift, decisive action. summary Naomi’s words blend patient waiting with confident expectation. Ruth is to rest, not in idleness, but in trust—knowing Boaz’s proven character and God’s sovereign hand will bring the matter to completion without delay. Scripture consistently links waiting with faith, diligent action with redemption, and urgency with God’s appointed time. In Ruth 3:18 we see a glimpse of the gospel rhythm: be still, watch God work, and rejoice when the Redeemer swiftly secures what He has promised. |
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