Ruth 2, Proverbs 30, James 2

It seems that Ruth knew who Boaz was in a general way, but not that he was a close relative. It was appropriate for her to seek help from Naomi's family for the two of them. The heart of Ruth is revealed in three ways:
1. How she worked hard to gather enough not just for herself, but Naomi, too
2. Her respectful attitude toward Boaz
3. Her generosity in keeping enough dinner leftovers to take to Naomi.
This is the picture of a quality young woman. The kind God just can't wait to use for a grand purpose.

Proverbs 30 is completely different from the rest of the book. Agur is unknown to us, as are Ithiel and Ucal. But Agur's desire to know God is evident, as well as his acknowledgment that wisdom comes from knowing God. His observations are astute because he knows where to look for answers--God's word. (v.5)

Ruth's character, and Agur's understanding, came from God. But had Naomi shown partiality and refused to love, accept, and teach Ruth, and had Boaz rejected her because of prejudice, God would not have worked his marvelous plan to create Obed and the family line to Jesus Christ. Agur believed (had faith) and in faith wrote words that speak truth thousands of years later.

All these people lived out their faith--made it evident--by the things they did. Because faith without works is dead.

Ruth 1, Proverbs 29, James 1

Why did Ruth stay with Naomi? The love between the girls and their mother-in-law is demonstrated by their tears at the thought of leaving her. Why did Ruth choose Naomi's God? Because Naomi introduced Him to her and lived out her faith and His love. She didn't have to. In legal and religious terms, her sons had disobeyed by marrying foreign women. Instead of judging them, Naomi loved them.

The wicked and the foolish are both contrasted with the righteous and wise. And no matter if a person is poor or a king, the Lord metes out justice. He is love, but He does judge sin. The blood of Christ covers our sins at salvation, so whoever trusts in the Lord shall be safe. This was the ultimate decision of Ruth -- to trust in the One True God.

Proverbs 29 and James 1 say many of the same things. The wise person is slow to speak. God is the source of wisdom and love. The rich and poor are the same before the Lord. And keeping oneself "unspotted from the world" by righteous living pleases God.

Naomi must have lived a wise and righteous life to have such an impact on Ruth.

Do others see the difference in my life?