Happy Monday! Thank you so much for praying for me. I lead 2 break-out sessions on Saturday at a retreat hosted by St. John's Lutheran Church. What a wonderful experience lead by a wonderful group of Christ-following women. It is amazing to see how God works through those who truly want to follow Him. Not only was it a renewing experience but also a great opportunity to stand on the promises of God as I shared what He has accomplished in my life. I was reminded of God's faithfulness, once again. How easily I forget.

As we continue our study of Ruth, we continue to see lessons of faithfulness. Today, let's look at chapter 3. Naomi and Ruth can expect a rough life if one of them does not get married. Naomi knows of the law in which a kinsman-redeemer was a relative who volunteered to take responsibility for the extended family when a woman's husband died. The closest relative could become the kinsmen-redeemer - if that relative did not want to, it would go to the next closest.

Naomi tells Ruth that Boaz will be threshing barley tonight and she is to get all fancied up and head to the threshing floor. She was to wait until after he is done eating and drinking, and lays down and lay down and uncover his feet when she covers up.

Now, this request probably seems very odd to Ruth, but because she trusts her faithful mother-in-law, she obeys.

This also seems odd to us but was according to Israelite custom and law. It was not a seductive act, just a custom that shows the man that he is to be the kinsman-reedemer.

When this all comes about and Ruth makes her request of Boaz, he answers: vs 11-13 "Now, my daughter, do not fear. I will do for you whatever you ask, for all my people in the city know that you are a woman of excellence. Now it is true I am a close relative; however, there is a relative closer than I. Remain this night, and when morning comes, if he will redeem you, good; let him redeem you. But if he does not wish to redeem you, then I will redeem you, as the Lord lives. Lie down until morning."

Boaz is a godly and well respected man as we saw earlier in his actions toward his servants and to Ruth. As quickly as he was able to respond to Ruth, I bet he had already been considering this opportunity. I just get all giddy inside as we watch this love story unfolding!

Do you notice that all three of our characters are God-fearing people. They also are faithful and Ruth is even called excellent. This whole story is a reference to God's faithfulness and His blessing over those who are also faithful.

When Ruth gets up to leave, Boaz fills her coat with barley to take to Naomi. When she returns and tells Naomi what had happened, she responds: "Wait, my daughter, until you know how the matter turns out; for the man will not rest until he has settled it today."

Even though, we so easily forget - our God is faithful. We can always stand firm on His promises. We can always rely on Him. We can always trust in Him. We can always believe that He will never leave or forsake us.

Are you a faithful person? Do people know that you will keep your word? Do you show others that you are reliable and will do your best? Your actions do make a difference. People won't want to get to know Jesus until they can see Jesus in you.

Have a great day

Living fearlessly
Christie