What does Ruth's question reveal about her understanding of God's favor and kindness? Ruth 2:10: “So she fell facedown, bowed to the ground, and said to him, ‘Why have I found favor in your eyes that you should take notice of me, since I am a foreigner?’ ” What Ruth’s Question Tells Us • Humble self-assessment – Ruth calls herself “a foreigner,” fully aware she brings no entitlement to Israel’s covenant blessings (cf. Deuteronomy 23:3). – Her posture—falling facedown—underscores genuine humility before Boaz and, ultimately, before God (compare Genesis 18:27). • Recognition of underserved grace – “Why have I found favor…?” echoes the biblical theme that God’s kindness is never earned (Exodus 33:19; Ephesians 2:8–9). – Ruth senses that grace originates in the heart of God and is merely channeled through Boaz (James 1:17). • Awareness of God’s covenant character – Israel’s Law commanded care for widows and foreigners (Deuteronomy 10:18–19; Leviticus 19:9–10). – Ruth’s surprise shows she already trusts that the God of Israel keeps His word but still marvels when she experiences it personally. • Gratitude that deepens faith – Astonishment at grace often fuels deeper devotion (Psalm 116:12–14). – Ruth’s thankful wonder prepares her to receive even greater kindness—redemption and marriage to Boaz (Ruth 4:10–13). Layers of Meaning in Her Words 1. “Found favor” — Hebrew ḥēn, the same word for grace Noah “found” (Genesis 6:8). Ruth aligns herself with a lineage of recipients of divine mercy. 2. “Take notice of me” — hints that God sees the overlooked (Psalm 113:7–9; Luke 1:48). 3. “Foreigner” — she owns her outsider status, pointing to God’s heart for all nations (Isaiah 56:3–8). Connections to Other Humble Responses • Mephibosheth: “What is Your servant, that You should notice a dead dog like me?” (2 Samuel 9:8). • Peter: “Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man!” (Luke 5:8). • The centurion: “I am not worthy for You to come under my roof” (Matthew 8:8). In each case, awareness of unworthiness magnifies the splendor of divine kindness. Takeaways for Today • Approach God with the same bowed-down humility, acknowledging our alienation apart from Christ (Romans 5:6–8). • Expect His covenant faithfulness to extend grace beyond our expectations (Psalm 103:10–12). • Respond with gratitude that moves us to greater obedience and loyalty, just as Ruth pledged herself to Naomi and ultimately to Boaz’s household (John 14:15). Ruth’s simple question, brimming with awe, models the heart posture that receives God’s favor and magnifies His kindness. |
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