Introduction:
In Matthew 1:23 we read, “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which means “God with us.” This promise of God’s presence is beautifully illustrated in the story of Ruth—a story of loyalty, faith, and redemption. In just four short chapters, Ruth’s journey from loss to legacy reveals how God works through ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things.
1. Choosing the Path of Redemption
Ruth’s story begins with tragedy. Naomi loses her husband and two sons in Moab, leaving her and her daughters in-law, Ruth and Orpah, widowed and vulnerable. When Naomi decides to return to Bethlehem, she urges the young women to stay behind. Orpah tearfully departs—but Ruth clings to Naomi, declaring, “Where you go, I will go… your God will be my God” (Ruth 1:16).
Ruth’s decision wasn’t easy. She chose faith over familiarity and trust over comfort. Like Ruth, we are often faced with the choice to follow God’s leading even when the road ahead is uncertain. Redemption begins when we, too, choose to walk with God no matter the cost.
2. Staying in the Field of Provision
When Ruth and Naomi arrive in Bethlehem, Ruth begins gleaning in the fields of Boaz—a wealthy relative of Naomi’s late husband. Boaz notices her faithfulness and kindness, offering her protection and provision. He tells her, “Do not go to glean in another field… stay close by my young women” (Ruth 2:8).
Boaz’s field represents the place of God’s provision. When we stay rooted in His presence and depend on Him as our source, we find blessing beyond what we could gather elsewhere. God doesn’t just provide—He pursues, protects, and pours out favor on those who trust in Him.
3. The One Who Redeems Completely
Boaz becomes Ruth’s kinsman redeemer—a relative who pays the price to restore a family’s future. Yet even this act points to a greater Redeemer. Just as Boaz redeemed Ruth, Jesus Christ redeems us. The law could not save us, but love did. “Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He obtained eternal redemption” (Hebrews 9:12).
Boaz and Ruth’s son, Obed, became the grandfather of King David—through whom Jesus, our true Redeemer, would come. God’s plan for salvation was woven into this humble love story, reminding us that redemption is always God’s ultimate goal.
Conclusion:
God With Us StillRuth’s faith and Boaz’s redemption echo through generations to the birth of Jesus – Immanuel!
God with us. Just as Ruth declared her unwavering devotion to Naomi, may we declare the same to Christ: “Where You go, I will go.” When we walk with our Redeemer, stay in His field, and trust His plan, we find that He is indeed God with us.
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