Blessings in the CornersRuth 2:1-23

Introduction• What do you want from God? – Power/Position– Riches– Strength/Health– Beauty– Wisdom– More?

• I want to find favor in His sight.

Introduction• Levirate law begins to color the

edges of this story.– Lev 19:9-10, 23:2– Deut 24:19

• God cares about people, especially vulnerable people.– He provides protection and

provision

It’s off to work we go• Ruth makes two requests (2:2, 7)

– She asks Naomi if she might go and work in the fields

– She asks the field manager if she might work in THIS field

• Then she works hard (2:7)

• and Boaz notices (2:5)

on the field? on the couch?

God favors workers not slackers.

An offer you can’t refuse• Boaz offers Ruth a regular spot

in his fields (2:8-9)

– He offers permanence– He offers protection– He offers refreshment

• Ruth is amazed and grateful (2:10, 13)

• and Boaz notices (2:11-12)

making sparks?causing sparks?

God favors humble dependence not defiant entitlement.

A free lunch• Boaz invites Ruth to the

company picnic (2:14)

– He offers bread AND vinegar– He serves her much roasted grain

• Ruth goes back to work (2:15)

• Boaz bestows even more blessings on Ruth (2:15-16) – He offers bonuses AND validation

A story around the table• Ruth finishes the work and the

day (2:17)

• Ruth shares her blessings with Naomi (2:18-19, 21)

– She has grain reaped, roasted and remaining

• Naomi shares a bigger blessing with Ruth (2:20) – He is our closest relative– It is good

being a blessing?

saying a blessing?

God favors people who favor other people with His favor.

Conclusions• Are you a favored person? (Eph.

1:3-14; 2 Cor. 8:9)

• Now that you have favor with God, what will you do with His blessing?

Conclusions• Enjoy it! His favor is for living!• Recognize its source,

acknowledge Him, be thankful. • Consider who may be favored

by your redistribution of favor. (2 Cor. 9:8; Eph. 2:8-10; 2 Thes. 2:16-17)

• Grow in favor with God and man.

The Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you;

the Lord lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace.

Num 6:25-26