Questions for Discussion & Application
- What questions do you have about the meaning of today’s passage?
- Are you surprised by the hasty and very forward strategy that is hatched by Naomi? Have you ever been hasty and tried to “help” God’s plan along in your own life instead of patiently waiting upon the Lord?
- If Boaz had not been a worthy man of faith, how might his response to Ruth at the threshing floor been different?
- How does Boaz show respect and honor for Ruth in his response to her request?
- What is significant about Ruth’s request in verse 9 that Boaz “spread your wings over your servant, for you are a redeemer”? (See Ruth 2:12)
- Boaz called Ruth a “worthy woman” in verse 11. This is the same language used in Proverbs 31:10 of the “excellent wife”. In what ways do we see the worthy character of Ruth?
- Boaz is resolved to redeem Ruth if possible and to give her and Naomi the rest they seek (verse 13). How is Boaz a picture of Jesus as our redeemer who gives us rest?
- How do we continue to see examples of God’s providential hand at work in this unfolding story? How does this help you to trust the Lord more in your own life?