Ruth goes out to glean from the fields of harvest. Gleaning is a command that God gives His people regarding the harvest. They are not to take everything from the field. They are to leave room at the margins for the poor. It is one of God’s ways to force His people to remember (and see) the poor. And Ruth just so happens to find herself at Boaz’s field. God is work, causing us to remember the poor guiding us in our lives. Let’s give ourselves space to pay attention to God’s nudge.

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Good morning, and happy Monday! I hope you had a wonderful weekend. Today, we continue our journey through Ruth by diving into Chapter 2, verses 1-3. This passage introduces Boaz and sets the stage for Ruth and Naomi’s story of redemption.

We learn that Naomi has a relative, Boaz, described as a man of standing from her late husband’s family. Ruth, seeking to provide for them, offers to glean leftover grain from the fields. She happens to end up in Boaz’s field, seemingly by chance—but as we know, God’s hand is at work.

Gleaning was an Old Testament practice where farmers were commanded to leave some grain behind for the poor (Leviticus 19:9-10). This act of mercy ensured the vulnerable were cared for, showing God’s abundant grace even in the laws of the Old Testament. Similarly, Ruth and Naomi, in their poverty, rely on this provision.

But was it mere coincidence that Ruth ended up in Boaz’s field? Certainly not. God’s guidance was evident, orchestrating events to bring about his redemptive plan. Ruth still had to act in faith, but God’s hand was present, nudging her toward Boaz’s field.

This reminds us to pay attention to God’s nudges in our own lives. Too often, busyness or distraction blinds us to where God might be guiding us—to opportunities for kindness, faithfulness, or service. Let’s practice stillness today, listening for God’s direction, and responding to his call with trust and obedience.

Tomorrow, we’ll explore Boaz’s conversation with Ruth and see how God’s redemptive kindness continues to unfold. Have a great day, and I’ll see you tomorrow!