Thursday, May 23 – Ruth 4, 1 Samuel 1 – Additional Reading, chapter 55, “The Child Samuel”
1. How does the practice of gleaning, as seen in Ruth 2, demonstrate the importance of providing for the vulnerable in society? What can we learn from Boaz’s generosity and concern for Ruth and Naomi in this context?
2. In Ruth 4, the story of Ruth and Boaz’s marriage serves as a central focus. What insights can we gain from their relationship in terms of loyalty, faithfulness, and the role of God’s guidance in bringing them together? How does their union contribute to the broader themes of love and commitment in the biblical narrative?
3. Ruth 4 portrays the legal and cultural customs of the time, particularly concerning inheritance rights and the role of the kinsman-redeemer. How does the resolution of these matters in the chapter reflect principles of justice, honor, and the preservation of family lineage? What relevance do these themes have for contemporary discussions on societal values and ethics?
Commentary and Reflection:
Ruth Chapter 4 concludes the story of Ruth, a Moabite woman who becomes the great-grandmother of King David. In this chapter, Boaz, a relative of Ruth’s deceased husband, fulfills his duty as a kinsman-redeemer by marrying Ruth and redeeming the land that belonged to her late husband. Through this act, Boaz secures Ruth’s future and ensures that the family line of her late husband continues.
Meaning and Symbolism:
- **Redemption**: The central theme of Ruth Chapter 4 is redemption. Boaz’s act of redeeming Ruth and her family’s land symbolizes God’s provision, care, and redemption for His people. It also serves as a foreshadowing of Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate Redeemer for humanity.
- **Restoration**: The story of Ruth demonstrates how God can bring restoration and blessings out of difficult circumstances. Ruth, a foreigner and a widow, finds favor and a new beginning through Boaz’s act of redemption. This highlights God’s faithfulness in restoring what was lost.
- **Genealogy**: The genealogy at the end of Ruth Chapter 4 traces the lineage from Boaz and Ruth to King David. This genealogy emphasizes God’s sovereignty in orchestrating events and using ordinary individuals to fulfill His divine plan for salvation.
- **Faithfulness and Loyalty**: Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi and her commitment to God’s people exemplify faithfulness and loyalty. These qualities are rewarded as Ruth finds a new family and plays a vital role in the lineage leading to King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ.
1 Samuel 1 Hannah’s deep desire for a child leads her to fervent prayer and a vow to dedicate her son to the Lord if granted. How does Hannah’s faith and commitment in the face of adversity serve as an example for believers today? (1 Samuel 1:10-11, 26-28)
The high priest Eli initially misjudges Hannah’s prayer, thinking she is drunk, but later blesses her when he understands her situation. What does this episode reveal about the importance of not jumping to conclusions and the power of sincere prayer before God? (1 Samuel 1:12-17, 28)
Through the birth of Samuel to Hannah, we see God’s faithfulness in answering prayers and fulfilling promises. How does the story of Hannah and Samuel foreshadow greater themes of God’s sovereignty, provision, and the role of prayer in the lives of His people? (1 Samuel 1:19-20, 27)
My prayer: Dear gracious Father, as we read these stories of people who dealt with real life challenges and struggles, these women who had little hope for an intercessor, they turned to you, the God of Israel to plead their case, to seek for a redeemer who would relief their suffering and bring hope for a future. They wrestled with you and persevered in their faith. They trusted in your justice, mercy, and grace that You would answer them, that you would provide for a redeemer despite their adverse circumstances. Dear Lord, help us to trust in you and persevere in our faith that you will deliver us, that you will provide. In Jesus name, amen.