Ruth-2
Finding Favor: A Devotional Study on Ruth 2
Introduction
Ruth is a remarkable story of love, redemption, and faith. As we delve into the second chapter, let's explore the power of favor and the way it transforms our circumstances.
Section 1: Naomi's Plight (Ruth 2:1-3)
Devotional Thought: Naomi, soon after returning from Moab, faced a harsh reality. Her husband and sons had died, causing her to descend into poverty and destitution. Yet, Ruth, despite being a widow like Naomi, chose to cling to her mother-in-law and found favor with Boaz. Reflect on the power of favor and how it can transform a situation.
Reflection Questions:
- Who are the people around you that have shown you favor?
- In what ways can showing favor to others lead to transformative relationships and circumstances?
Section 2: Ruth's Initiative (Ruth 2:4-7)
Devotional Thought: Ruth took an intentional step to find a place to glean in Boaz's field. Her initiative brought her into contact with the people of the place, ultimately leading her to Boaz. Do not underestimate the power of initiative and the way it leads to divine opportunity.
Reflection Questions:
- What steps can you take to find favor in your situation?
- Have you taken initiative in your circumstances to reach divine opportunity?
Section 3: Boaz's Favor (Ruth 2:8-13)
Devotional Thought: Boaz, who had heard of Ruth's kindness and devotion to Naomi, showed her an unprecedented favor. He paid her highest honor by inviting her to glean in his field and giving her a generous portion of grain. These small acts of kindness brought immense comfort to Ruth. Reflect on the small acts of kindness that can show God's favor.
Reflection Questions:
- How have small acts of kindness brought comfort and favor into your life?
- How can you show small acts of kindness to others?
Section 4: Ruth's Favor (Ruth 2:14-18)
Devotional Thought: Ruth, despite being a foreigner, found favor with Boaz. His commitment to Naomi and Ruth was honorable, allowing Ruth to see a future despite having experienced profound loss. Today, reflect on how you can display unique qualities that lead to favor, even in unfamiliar circumstances.
Reflection Questions:
- What unique qualities do you possess that can bring favor in unfamiliar circumstances?
- How can you cultivate those qualities and share them with others?
Section 5: Ruth's Future (Ruth 2:19-23)
Devotional Thought: When Ruth returned to Naomi, she carried an ephah of barley. This gesture brought Naomi comfort, knowing that God had shown His favor to Ruth through Boaz. Let us trust that God's favor is at work in our circumstances, no matter how bleak the present seems.
Reflection Questions:
- How can you trust God's favor even in difficult circumstances?
- How can sharing the comfort and guidance that comes through divine favor with others empower them to face their situations?
Conclusion:
As we conclude our devotional journey through Ruth 2, let us remember the power of favor. Favor brings blessing, trust, and comfort. Like Ruth, let us walk in favor and trust that God will lead us to divine opportunity. May we display unique qualities that lead to favor and share them with others. Ultimately, our actions carry the essence of God's favor and can transform lives, leading us to a brighter future.