Redemption Begins
Redemption Begins Key Verse: “So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife… And the Lord enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son.” — Ruth 4:13 (NIV)
From Gleaning to Glory This part of Ruth’s story is one of the most breathtaking transitions in Scripture — the kind that reminds us that God doesn’t waste anything. She started as a widowed outsider. She was faithful in the field. She was bold at the threshing floor. And now — she’s redeemed. Boaz steps in publicly. He secures the rights to redeem her. He honors her with dignity and restores what was lost. This is more than a love story. It’s a story of a God who works in the margins, in the mundane, and in the middle of our waiting.
Listening to Wise Counsel Let’s not overlook how Ruth got here. She didn’t devise the plan to go to Boaz on her own — it came from Naomi. In Ruth 3:1–4, Naomi gives specific instructions. And Ruth listens. Sometimes, the turning point in your story is directly tied to whether you’re willing to listen to someone else’s wisdom. God often speaks through our Naomis — older women, mentors, spiritual mothers — who help us see what we can’t yet see. I've had those women in my life, too. Women who gave me courage, strategy, and sometimes just a nudge to do the next brave thing. We all need wise counsel — and one day, we may be called to give it.
What is a “Kinsman-Redeemer”? In Hebrew, the word is go’el (גָּאַל) — meaning “one who rescues, restores, or delivers.” In Ruth’s day, the law allowed a male relative to: Marry a widow to preserve the family line Redeem family land Protect the legacy of the deceased This was a system of care, a legal and cultural safety net for vulnerable women. But let’s stop here for a moment and say this clearly: You do not need a man to redeem you. Boaz had a legal right in Ruth’s time. But today — we are already redeemed by Christ. You don’t need a man to complete your story. You don’t need a relationship to make you whole. You don’t need someone to give you value. You’re already known, loved, and chosen by the Redeemer Himself. Marriage is a beautiful gift. So is singleness. So is knowing who you are and whose you are. You can live a beautiful, purposeful, fully redeemed life without anyone’s last name but God’s covering.
A Love Story, Yes — But So Much More Boaz didn’t just marry Ruth — he restored her. But even more powerful than that? God used Ruth’s pain, her loyalty, and her obedience to establish a legacy. She became the great-grandmother of King David. And through her line came Jesus, the Messiah. Her faithfulness didn’t just change her life — it changed the world.
The Power of Vulnerability In her book Daring Greatly, Brené Brown writes: “Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, and creativity.” We often associate vulnerability with weakness — but in reality, vulnerability is where connection begins. Ruth’s choice to lie at Boaz’s feet, to ask boldly for covering, was an act of courageous vulnerability. She exposed her need and asked for help — with dignity and hope. When we’re willing to be seen, even in our need or uncertainty, we create space for real connection — with God, with others, and even with ourselves. 🕊 Scripture Spotlight: Under His Wings “He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.” — Psalm 91:4 (NIV) This isn’t just poetic language — it’s the picture of a protective, present, and powerful God. I imagine a father kneeling low, arms wide, back bent like a shield, gathering his family into his embrace. Or a mama bird fluttering and rustling her wings, tucking her babies underneath — not just for warmth, but for protection, provision, and peace. Or me — gathering my arms around my kids, my family — holding tight to all I hold dear, saying with my whole being, “You’re safe. I’ve got you.” That’s the posture of God toward you. You’re not left out in the elements. You’re not forgotten in the storm. You’re gathered close, right under His wing. And when you feel like no one sees you or no one will step in — remember this: The One who created the wings is already covering you with them.
Reflection Questions Where are you tempted to believe you need someone else to complete your story? Who has been a “Naomi” in your life — and how can you honor or thank them? In what area of your life is God calling you to be vulnerable? How does it feel to picture yourself under the wings of God? Are there women in your life who need your wisdom, encouragement, or protection right now?
Prayer God, Thank You for being the kind of Redeemer who kneels low, gathers me in, and calls me worthy. Help me to listen for wisdom, to open my heart even when it’s scary, and to rest in the truth that I am already redeemed — not because of who I’m with, but because I’m Yours. Wrap me in Your wings, and help me live with boldness and grace. Amen.
