Expecting Redemption: Faith, Planning, and God's Timing
Summary
In our journey through the book of Ruth, we find ourselves in chapter 3, a pivotal moment in this narrative of redemption. Today, we explore the theme of expecting great things from God and the balance between divine provision and human planning. As we delve into Ruth's story, we are reminded of the importance of active faith, a faith that calls us into obedience and requires us to lay plans while trusting in God's provision.
Ruth chapter 3 begins with Naomi, whose heart has softened since the trials of chapter 1. She devises a plan for Ruth, her daughter-in-law, to seek security and a future with Boaz, the kinsman-redeemer. Naomi's plan is not just about survival; it's about stepping into a new chapter of life, shedding the garments of widowhood, and embracing the possibility of redemption and restoration.
The narrative unfolds with Ruth's bold move to approach Boaz at the threshing floor, a place where intentions could easily be misunderstood. Yet, Ruth's actions are not driven by desperation but by a deep trust in God's provision and a clear intention to seek Boaz's protection and love. Her request for Boaz to spread his garment over her is a profound act of faith, symbolizing her desire for redemption and a new beginning.
Boaz's response is one of grace and commitment. He acknowledges Ruth's character and promises to settle the matter of redemption, even though there is another kinsman closer in line. This moment highlights the importance of honesty and integrity in our relationships and the need to trust God's timing and provision.
As we reflect on this chapter, we are challenged to examine our own lives. What plans are we laying before God? Are we clear in our intentions and honest about our circumstances? Are we willing to take risks in faith, trusting that God will meet us with His grace and provision? Let us be encouraged to settle the matters in our lives that need resolution, to walk in obedience, and to expect great things from our Redeemer.
Key Takeaways:
- Active Faith and Planning: Faith is not passive; it calls us into action and obedience. While we trust in God's provision, we are also called to lay plans and take steps of faith, knowing that God works through our efforts and intentions. [40:18]
- The Softening of Hearts: Naomi's journey from bitterness to hope reminds us that God can soften even the hardest of hearts. In our own lives, we must remain open to God's transformative work, allowing Him to mold us through our trials and challenges. [41:24]
- Clear Intentions and Honesty: Ruth's approach to Boaz teaches us the importance of being clear in our intentions and honest about our circumstances. In our relationships and decisions, we must communicate openly and trust that God will honor our integrity. [50:09]
- Trusting God's Timing: Boaz's commitment to resolve the matter of redemption highlights the need to trust God's timing and provision. We must resist the urge to force situations and instead wait upon the Lord, knowing that His plans are perfect. [53:46]
- Settling Unresolved Matters: We are called to settle the unresolved matters in our lives, whether they are relational, spiritual, or personal. By walking in obedience and addressing these issues, we align ourselves with God's will and open the door to His blessings. [01:04:07]
Youtube Chapters:
- [0:00] - Welcome
- [0:30] - Introduction to Ruth Chapter 3
- [2:15] - The Importance of Active Faith
- [5:00] - Naomi's Plan for Ruth
- [10:45] - Ruth's Bold Move
- [15:30] - Understanding the Threshing Floor
- [20:00] - Ruth's Request for Redemption
- [25:15] - Boaz's Response of Grace
- [30:00] - The Role of the Kinsman-Redeemer
- [35:45] - Trusting God's Timing
- [40:00] - Settling Unresolved Matters
- [45:30] - Walking in Obedience
- [50:00] - Conclusion and Call to Action
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: Ruth Chapter 3
Bible Reading:
- Ruth 3:1-18
- 2 Samuel 12:20
- Ezekiel 16:8-12
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Observation Questions:
1. What plan does Naomi devise for Ruth, and what is her motivation behind it? [41:24]
2. How does Ruth demonstrate her faith and intentions when she approaches Boaz at the threshing floor? [50:09]
3. What is Boaz's initial reaction to Ruth's request, and how does he demonstrate his commitment to resolving the matter of redemption? [53:46]
4. How does the narrative describe the threshing floor, and what significance does it hold in the story? [48:21]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does Naomi's transformation from bitterness to hope reflect the potential for change in our own lives? What does this suggest about God's ability to soften hearts? [40:18]
2. In what ways does Ruth's approach to Boaz illustrate the importance of clear intentions and honesty in our relationships? [51:13]
3. How does Boaz's response to Ruth's request highlight the importance of trusting God's timing and provision, even when there are obstacles? [53:46]
4. What does the concept of the kinsman-redeemer reveal about God's provision and care for His people, and how can this be applied to our understanding of redemption today? [55:42]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you had to lay plans before God. How did you balance your own planning with trusting in God's provision? [41:24]
2. Naomi's heart was softened over time. Are there areas in your life where you need to allow God to soften your heart? How can you remain open to His transformative work? [40:18]
3. Ruth was clear in her intentions when she approached Boaz. How can you ensure that your intentions are clear and honest in your relationships and decisions? [51:13]
4. Boaz trusted God's timing and did not force the situation. Is there a situation in your life where you need to trust God's timing instead of trying to control the outcome? [53:46]
5. Consider any unresolved matters in your life, whether relational, spiritual, or personal. What steps can you take to address these issues and align yourself with God's will? [01:04:07]
6. How can you actively walk in obedience and take steps of faith in your current circumstances, expecting great things from God? [49:33]
7. Identify a specific area in your life where you need to take a risk in faith. What practical steps can you take this week to move forward in that area? [50:09]
Devotional
Day 1: Active Faith Requires Intentional Action
Faith is not merely a passive belief but an active force that calls us into action and obedience. In the story of Ruth, we see this principle vividly illustrated. Ruth's journey is marked by her willingness to step out in faith, guided by Naomi's plan, and approach Boaz at the threshing floor. This act was not one of desperation but of intentionality, demonstrating her trust in God's provision and her readiness to embrace a new chapter in her life. As believers, we are encouraged to lay plans and take steps of faith, trusting that God works through our efforts and intentions. This active faith is a partnership with God, where we do our part, and He does His. [40:18]
"Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established." (Proverbs 16:3, ESV)
Reflection: What specific step of faith is God calling you to take today, and how can you actively pursue it with intentionality?
Day 2: Transformation Through Softened Hearts
Naomi's journey from bitterness to hope is a testament to the transformative power of God. Initially, Naomi was overwhelmed by her circumstances, but as the story unfolds, we see her heart softening and opening to new possibilities. This transformation is a reminder that God can soften even the hardest of hearts, molding us through our trials and challenges. In our own lives, we must remain open to God's transformative work, allowing Him to change us from the inside out. This openness requires vulnerability and a willingness to let go of past hurts, trusting that God is working all things for our good. [41:24]
"And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh." (Ezekiel 36:26, ESV)
Reflection: Is there an area of your life where you feel hardened or resistant? How can you invite God to soften your heart and bring transformation?
Day 3: The Power of Clear Intentions and Honesty
Ruth's approach to Boaz is a powerful example of the importance of being clear in our intentions and honest about our circumstances. Her request for Boaz to spread his garment over her was a bold and clear declaration of her desire for redemption and protection. In our relationships and decisions, we must communicate openly and trust that God will honor our integrity. This honesty fosters trust and transparency, allowing us to build strong and meaningful connections with others. By being clear and honest, we align ourselves with God's truth and open the door for His blessings. [50:09]
"Let what you say be simply 'Yes' or 'No'; anything more than this comes from evil." (Matthew 5:37, ESV)
Reflection: In what area of your life do you need to be more honest and clear in your intentions? How can you take a step towards greater transparency today?
Day 4: Trusting in God's Perfect Timing
Boaz's commitment to resolve the matter of redemption highlights the importance of trusting in God's timing and provision. Despite the urgency of the situation, Boaz did not rush the process but instead waited for the right moment to act. This patience and trust in God's timing is a lesson for us all. We must resist the urge to force situations and instead wait upon the Lord, knowing that His plans are perfect. Trusting in God's timing requires faith and patience, believing that He is working behind the scenes for our good. [53:46]
"For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end—it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay." (Habakkuk 2:3, ESV)
Reflection: Is there a situation in your life where you are struggling to trust God's timing? How can you practice patience and faith as you wait for His perfect plan to unfold?
Day 5: Resolving Unsettled Matters with Obedience
We are called to settle the unresolved matters in our lives, whether they are relational, spiritual, or personal. By walking in obedience and addressing these issues, we align ourselves with God's will and open the door to His blessings. Ruth's story challenges us to examine our own lives and identify areas that need resolution. This process requires courage and a willingness to confront difficult situations, trusting that God will guide us through. As we take steps to resolve these matters, we experience the peace and freedom that comes from living in alignment with God's purposes. [01:04:07]
"Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift." (Matthew 5:23-24, ESV)
Reflection: What unresolved matter in your life needs your attention today? How can you take a step towards resolution and obedience to God's will?
Quotes
1. "We of the people of God, we should expect great things from God, right? And if we don't, somebody should remind us to expect great things from God." [10:00] (10 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "I believe that our faith is active. I believe in an active faith. I believe in a faith that calls you into obedience. And when you're called into obedience, that means that you're going to lay some plans in your life." [11:00] (11 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Walking in faith doesn't mean that you stop planning and dreaming, okay? Go hand in hand. Wisdom says you have a plan." [48:21] (12 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Perception is not reality, because you know why? When you look at Jesus, they said, oh, he's a glutton, and a drunkard. He was not a glutton, and a drunkard. That was the people's perception of him." [53:22] (10 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "You don't get your identity from being married. You don't get your identity from being single. You don't get your identity in choosing your sexuality. You only get your identity in Christ. He is enough, okay? He's enough." [44:44] (15 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "Settle the matter today, whatever you can settle, whatever you need to walk in obedience. Don't wait. If you know what to do, settle it today. What needs to be settled in your life today? Settle it." [01:05:06] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "Boaz was a man of character. He was that of faith. When Ruth left that threshing floor, Boaz knew what he was going to do. When you leave this floor, do you know what you're going to do?" [01:06:35] (13 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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