Daily Devotional

“I am Ruth, your maidservant. Take your maidservant under your wing, for you are a close relative” (Ruth 3:9). 

Since Boaz was a close kinsman, Naomi had pondered the kinsman- redeemer law of their culture, whereby she might gain security for her daughter-in-law. Eventually Naomi suggested a plan. She instructed Ruth to bathe, put on her most attractive clothing, and go to the threshing floor where Boaz was working, and to wait until he stopped to rest for the night. “Then it shall be, when he lies down, that you shall notice the place where he lies; and you shall go in, uncover his feet, and lie down; and he will tell you what you should do” (Ruth 3:4). 

Ruth agreed. Later that night, Boaz woke up startled. “Who are you?” he asked. After identifying herself, Ruth implored, “Take your maidservant under your wing, for you are a close relative.” 

Boaz didn’t hesitate in blessing and commending her: “For you have shown more kindness at the end than at the beginning, in that you did not go after young men, whether poor or rich. And now, my daughter, do not fear. I will do for you all that you request, for all the people of my town know that you are a virtuous woman” (Ruth 3:10, 11). 

After a closer male relative declined the privilege the following day, Boaz himself redeemed the property of Naomi and married Ruth. In time, a son was born to them; baby Obed was a great comfort to his grandmother Naomi. Eventually, this child of Ruth and Boaz became the grandfather of King David and was, therefore, an ancestor to the Messiah. 

Aren’t you thankful for Jesus, our kinsman-redeemer? According to He- brews 2:11, we are part of His family and He is our Brother. When we were in need, He gave His life to redeem us. There can be no better security than belonging to Him. 

Dear Jesus, You gave everything to redeem us and give us the greatest security of all, and we praise You!