Here we are! We made it to the last chapter of Ruth. What a fabulous study this has been for me. If you haven’t read the book of Ruth for yourself yet or study it deeply, I hope my blog posts will inspire you to do that. These posts have barely scratched the surface of what the Lord showed me during this study. Each week I gathered with women in my church and we discussed what the Lord was teaching us through our study. Our study has concluded now, so I am finally able to gather my thoughts together for this final blog post on Ruth.
In chapter 4, we find Boaz keeping his promise to Ruth to settle the question of who was Ruth’s true redeemer. Clearly, Ruth wanted Boaz to be her redeemer, but there was a man closer than Boaz in the family line. So Boaz, being the wise man he was had a plan. After gathering the men council of the town together at the gate he states the issue in Ruth 4:3, “Naomi, who has come back from the country of Moab, is selling the parcel of land that belonged to our relative Elimelech.” The law is stated in Leviticus 25 that the closest relative is to purchase the land to keep it in the family. But there was a slight problem. Naomi’s land included Ruth. The closest relative didn’t want Ruth. If he married her it would interfere with his family’s inheritance. So he refused, of which Boaz knew he would. So Ruth & Boaz were able to get married and eventually have a baby of whom would be the grandfather to King David. This chapter brings together all of the pieces of the providence of God in such a fantastic way.
Chapter 4 of Ruth serves as a powerful reminder of God’s continual and unfailing providential love for His people. The story demonstrates how God can take a Moabite widow—someone who, by cultural standards, was an outsider—and, through a series of remarkable events, place her in the lineage of the Messiah. This is a testament to His ability to use unexpected circumstances and people for extraordinary purposes.
Boaz’s Integrity and Fulfillment of Promise
Boaz’s character shines in this chapter as he faithfully maintains his promise to Ruth. He calls a council at the city gate, ensuring that witnesses are present in accordance with tradition and law for the transaction that is to take place. As the clan chieftain, Boaz’s responsibility is not only to uphold the law but also to act with integrity and righteousness, setting a standard for the people of Bethlehem. Yet, his actions extend beyond mere legal obligation; they reflect a deeper commitment to God’s ways and to Ruth’s future.
Boaz’s act of redeeming Ruth serves as a symbolic foreshadowing of the greater redemptive work of Jesus Christ. As Warren Wiersbe notes, “Boaz is a beautiful picture of our Lord Jesus Christ, who, though rich, became poor so that we might share in his riches.” Boaz’s redemption of Ruth is a vivid example of how God often works through ordinary individuals to accomplish His extraordinary plans. Ruth, once destined for a life of idol worship, is transformed by God’s intervention, just as believers are brought from darkness into light.
God’s Promise and Ruth’s Reward
This chapter also reassures us that God always keeps His promises. The first mention of a Savior is found in the book of Genesis, and every book of the Old Testament echoes the promise of salvation. Ruth’s story underscores this truth: through her faithfulness and obedience, she receives a reward far beyond anything she could have imagined—a place in the lineage of the promised Messiah. Her journey is a testament to the blessings that come from trusting and obeying God.
Naomi’s Transformation
Naomi’s journey in the book of Ruth is a testament to God’s redemptive power. At the end of chapter one, Naomi refers to herself as “Mara,” which means bitter. This name change reflects the depth of her grief and loss, as she feels stripped of everything—her family, her security, and even her identity.
However, by the conclusion of chapter four, Naomi’s story has taken a dramatic turn. No longer does she see herself as bitter and empty. Instead, she is rejoicing, filled once again by the Lord. God has restored what she lost, not only by providing for her physical needs but also by renewing her spirit and her joy. Ruth, her beloved daughter-in-law, is now married, cherished, and blessed with a son. Naomi is honored with the role of nurse to the child, caring for him as if he were her own grandson. The joy she must feel in this moment is unimaginable.
Hope Found in God’s Unfailing Love
The story of Ruth and Naomi offers hope to all who face difficult circumstances. God does not abandon His people to despair. His love, mercy, and grace are far greater than any situation we encounter. Even when our circumstances seem impossible, God remains steadfast.
But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one. 2 Thessalonians 3:3
We may change, but He does not.
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Hebrews 13:8
When we are unfaithful, He is always faithful. In moments when hope seems distant, God Himself becomes our hope.
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. 1 Peter 1:3
Known and Redeemed by God
I pray we can view Ruth’s story as a powerful reminder of God’s providence and sovereignty. Through His divine plan, Ruth was not only known but also redeemed, demonstrating that none of our lives unfold by chance. This assurance encourages us to walk boldly in the truth that God knows each of us intimately and has redeemed us for His perfect purpose and will. Let us strive to live with confidence in our identity as those who are seen and cherished by God, trusting fully in His redemptive work and divine intentions for our lives.
Dana Bailey 