The whole situation is summed up by one verse in chapter 17. “All the Israelites did whatever they thought was right.” They had no leadership or vision and things were looking bleak. And then we have the story of Ruth. In complete contrast to the stories told in Judges, the book of Ruth is uplifting and beautiful – a shining star in the dark night sky.
And why is it like this? Because of Ruth and Boaz. Two people who loved God, followed His laws and were faithful and kind to those around them.
Boaz demonstrates this beautifully in his first encounter with Ruth. He somehow manages to befriend, comfort, encourage, and provide for her all within a couple of verses. And within this he prays that she would find cover and protection under the wings of the God of Israel. Smooth…
I don’t think that it is any coincidence that Ruth ends up with Boaz on the threshing floor asking him to cover her with his blanket. Boaz has become the answer to his own prayer! He is the one that God will use to give that protection to Ruth.
It is so easy to use prayer for the wrong reasons “I’ve prayed about, so now it is in God’s hands…” not remembering that we are God’s hands on Earth.
I can recall many times that I have ended up being the answer to my own prayers; “Lord, I pray that you would raise someone up to lead the youth work.” Three weeks later it was me.
I don’t want to devalue prayer in any way. Everything we do must be thoroughly soaked in it. However, it cannot stop there. I am sure Moses spent hours praying with God, but if that was all he did, we would have been left with a very short (and rubbish) story, and the Israelites would probably still be in Egypt!
As you go through today, take a look around. See where God’s hope and love is needed and then BE the answer, instead of just looking for one.
Sam
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