Title: Grace of God (Ruth 02:8-6)
Content Even a person with strong self-esteem who hates being indebted is proud to receive favor from a person of status (ex. the president). However, modern people are rejecting the grace of God, who is the Creator and Ruler of the Most High. It is because we do not know who God is and what His grace is. Through today's text, let Ruth examine God's grace through Boaz.
1. The blessing of grace from God
① The blessing of protection (verses 8-9)
God is the protector of our lives. Being a guardian means taking full responsibility for my life as well as protecting it. (Isaiah 41:10) “Do not be afraid, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, yea, I will uphold you with my righteous hand.” When you believe that God is with you, you have true courage and always have unshakable faith. (Psalm 46:1-3)
② Blessings of comfort and joy (verse 13)
Ruth received not only material help but also comfort and joy from Boaz. In fact, Ruth's suffering was more without a comforter than poverty. Even if you are married to a young chaebol and have a lot of wealth, it is not a happy marriage if you do not receive love and comfort from your husband. Our God is the God of all comfort. (2 Corinthians 1:3)
③ Blessing of fellowship (verse 14)
Ruth receives the favor of Boaz and sits down at a meal together. We are those who eat and drink with God by the grace of God. Being able to eat and drink with God is a great blessing. How dare the creature have fellowship with the Creator? But the Lord wants to fellowship with us (Revelation 3:20). He wants to eat and drink with us. The Lord is not only our protector but also our comforter, and He wants us to share the fellowship of love. How great is this blessing? How happy it is to eat and drink with the Creator in a world that prides itself on having a meal with the President.
2. Characteristics of this blessing (verse 14)
“I ate and had leftovers” is a blessing full of satisfaction and overflowing. God's grace is a blessing that overflows abundantly (Isaiah 23:5). It was a blessing that overflowed with miracles.
3. How can we enjoy this blessing of grace? (verse 13)
① You must meet Jesus.
Ruth enjoyed this blessing because she met Boaz. The only way we can enjoy this blessing is because we have met Jesus Christ. You can enjoy this blessing only in Jesus.
② I must confess Jesus Christ as my Savior.
I must confess and believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who died on the cross for me and was resurrected as my Savior.
③ You must seek (desire) to enjoy this blessing.
Ruth's confession, "My Lord, I wish you favor" should be my wish. When you meet Jesus Christ and believe in Him as your Savior and confess Him and want to receive more grace, God will pour out abundant blessings of grace.