Ruth 2: Grace Found in the Redeemer’s Field

God’s providence reveals His Redeemer’s grace, offering refuge, provision, and restoration to all who seek shelter under His wings.

Context

Ruth chapter 1 showed Naomi’s bitter return from Moab and Ruth’s loyal choice to identify with God’s people. Ruth 2 now displays God’s providence working through ordinary kindness. Ruth’s gleaning in Boaz’s field reveals God’s unseen hand guiding her steps and introduces Boaz as a picture of Christ, the Redeemer who provides refuge and grace to the humble believer. This chapter bridges Ruth’s faith in chapter 1 and her redemption in chapter 3, showing that God’s covenant love works through His Redeemer to meet every need of those who trust Him.

Proposition

Find refuge in Christ, our gracious Redeemer, who provides for and rewards those who trust in Him.

Ruth’s humble work in Boaz’s field (2:1–7) shows faith expressed through obedience. She acted under God’s law, which allowed the poor and the foreigner to glean, yet she approached the opportunity with humility, seeking favor rather than demanding rights. God guided her steps to the field of her redeemer, showing that grace meets the believer who walks in faith and obedience.

Boaz’s kindness and protection (2:8–16) reveal the heart of Christ. Boaz gave Ruth a place among his people and supplied her abundantly, going beyond the requirements of the law to show generous favor. Likewise, Christ welcomes the sinner and satisfies the weary soul, giving full acceptance and overflowing grace to all who draw near to Him.

Ruth’s report to Naomi (2:17–23) shows how grace restores hope. Naomi, who once called herself “bitter,” begins to see God’s hand in Boaz’s favor. So also, the believer’s despair turns to joy when he
recognizes that Christ is working all things for good, even through ordinary acts of obedience and faith.

Invitation

Christ is the true and greater Boaz, our Redeemer who came to rescue the destitute sinner. Through His death, He bore God’s judgment for our sin, and through His resurrection, He offers forgiveness and eternal life to all who believe. Change your mind about sin and call upon the name of the Lord to save you. His grace still welcomes the outcast and restores the brokenhearted who seek refuge in Him.