Jumping into the free Ruth Bible study week 8, we look at how we influence the world as Christians. Do you think you measure up?
As you read through Ruth 4:1-12 this week, take the time to really think about how your actions, behaviors, and words impact the world. Maybe you think that who you are does not matter to anyone. You are mistaken. God loves you and will meet you where you are!
This means when you feel hopeless or when you think you cannot make a difference in the world, this saddens God. He made you for a purpose and made you who you are so that you could impact the world by using your strengths and spiritual gifts.
When you say that you have no purpose in this world and “diss” yourself, you are insulting God. After all, He made you in a specific way!
You have every strength to be a dynamite individual – someone like Boaz from our story. Boaz trusted God’s plan, sought wise counsel when needed, showed a great deal of spiritual maturity, and behaved as a noble and honorable man.
Think about how you can praise the Lord for creating you! Be positive and compliment the Lord for the good that is inside of you!!
Praise the Lord for how He created you. You are unique for a reason!
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Day 36 – The Importance of the Town Gate
If you recall, we ended Chapter 3 of Ruth with Naomi feeling confident that Boaz would settle the matter of redemption for the two widows. When studying the Bible in-depth, it is crucial to consider the setting, the background, and the culture.
Boaz had an important matter to resolve, involving the land of his relative Elimelech and the marriage of Ruth – the Moabite widow, a real-life portrait of the Proverbs 31 woman. As you read Ruth 4:1, you’ll discover that he heads to the town gate.
In the United States, to arrange something of this magnitude, we would typically hire a lawyer and/or take a person to court to have a legal document, or contract, signed stating the facts of the case or “the terms.”
During this time and culture, they settled civic and judicial matters differently. Their “courthouse” was the town gate. This was a critical place for the inhabitants because each person who entered or exited the city had to go through it. It was the center of activity for the community.
Boaz knew this was a legal decision (a transaction) to be made and settled in front of witnesses.
When you need to resolve matters of importance or confess your wrongdoings, where do you go? Jesus is the Gate for us (John 10:9). He is the Way (John 14:6) for us to reach our Father in Heaven. All we need to do is reach out (pray).
Maybe your load is heavy and overwhelming, and you don’t know what to do or how to approach God. Just pray. He IS listening and WILL provide for you.
Take your decisions to God rather than trying to resolve them alone.
Related: How to Do a Spiritual Evaluation of Your Life
When you feel overwhelmed, approach God. He is always listening and will respond. Take your decisions to Him rather than this world.
Day 37 – Who Needed to Be There?
Yesterday, we determined why Boaz chose the location for his transaction in Ruth 4:1. Now, let’s figure out who needed to be present and why. Read Ruth 4:2.
According to Benson’s Commentary on the Old and New Testaments, one or two witnesses would have been enough. However, Boaz seeks out ten men. Although he might not have needed so many witnesses for this transaction, Boaz knew it would be wise to have ten.
The Jewish custom was to have at least ten men (a “minyan”) present in matters of importance, such as divorce, marriage, or inheritance. This way, they would have plenty of men to judge the case and witness it settling it.
When faced with a serious decision, do you seek wise counsel from other believers and/or turn to prayer for answers? Does your behavior or words vary based on who is around?
Here’s a secret: We all struggle with this from time to time.
You might have acted differently if you had particular people around you. Perhaps you currently struggle with comparing your life to others. With almost three billion Christians worldwide, it can be very challenging NOT to hold yourself to a certain standard!
We want to act as we “should,” right? So, here is the recipe for that. Do not aim to be someone you aren’t. God made you perfect – just as you are! He wanted you to have the gifts and talents that He gave you!
Aim to live a life holy and pleasing according to God’s standards alone. Pleasing the world is a temporary “high;” think about your eternal future. Won’t it be grand??
If the world disagrees with you, you’re likely doing something right!
Related: Grow Spiritually with a Relationship with God
Live a holy and pleasing life in accordance to God’s standards, not the standards of this world.
Day 38 – The Request for a Kinsman Redeemer
So, we’ve now set the stage for the interaction between Boaz and the unnamed “family redeemer.” We know that Boaz went to the town gate and called ten leaders together for this discussion so that he would have witnesses.
Read Ruth 4:3-8. To better understand what is happening, look at Leviticus 25:25 and Deuteronomy 25:5-10. Boaz previously told Ruth that he would “redeem” her (marry her and take ownership of Naomi’s land) if the family member who was closer in relation declined.
Look at the manner in which Boaz asks the “family redeemer.”
First, Boaz states that this land (of Elimelech’s) can be redeemed. Then, he waits for the man’s response. Finally, he explains the condition of this transaction (that the man would also need to marry Ruth, the Moabite).
The Moody Commentary states that Boaz was acting in a spiritually mature, godly manner since he was expressing himself in a way that was contrary to what he desired. His true character was revealed in this as he sought the welfare of someone else over himself.
Naomi acted similarly when she encouraged her daughters-in-law to pursue their lives back in Moab, where she believed they would be better off.
She likely would have preferred not to make the journey and settle in a new home alone, but she sought their well-being above her own.
These acts of selflessness show real people doing something they did not want to do for the good of others.
When we seek the welfare of others above ourselves, we must look beyond what is “comfortable” and “convenient.” Instead, we embrace awkwardness, understanding that it is part of God’s Will.
Related: Are You Spiritually Lazy?
Look beyond your comfort zone and embrace the awkward moments. Otherwise, you might miss something crucial!
Day 39 – Boaz as a Noble Man
As you read Ruth 4:9-10, did you notice how noble Boaz was? He knew what he wanted. He was prepared to take action with the witnesses present. Likewise, he understood what Naomi and Ruth needed and expected as he would now fulfill the role of the kinsman redeemer.
Boaz even explained to the elders and crowd standing around what he was going to do on behalf of these two widows.
It’s just so beautiful that he was willing to take on additional responsibilities to do “what is right” at a time when everyone did “what is right – in their own eyes,” according to the period of the Judges (Ruth 1:1).
Boaz showed that he was a man who was noble and kept his word – despite what anyone else might have thought about the situation (Ruth being a Moabite and all).
During one of my studies of Ruth, my husband and I joked about how Boaz might have been quite the catch compared to Mahlon. After all, Mahlon’s name meant sickness, and we know he died at a relatively young age. Boaz’s name not only had strength in it, but he also showed this.
Boaz did not show up at the town gate by accident. He did not ask the other relative permission to marry Ruth haphazardly. He did have a plan to accomplish his goal and get it done in the best, most honorable way.
Everything happened the way it did in this story for a reason, and God’s fingerprints can be seen everywhere, even though He is mentioned only a few times. He took care of His people, and their faith served them well.
When things are unclear, do you turn to God or become frustrated (or both)?
Related: How to Pray for Your Husband
Everything happens for a reason in the story of Ruth. God’s fingerprints serve the people well.
Day 40 – The Blessing From the People
As you read the blessing given by the people in Ruth 4:11-12, notice the people and places mentioned. While the Bible doesn’t always list women by name, here, we learn of two extraordinary ones.
While their culture did deem women less noteworthy at times, when it came to children and love, women did get a chance to shine. Let’s look at these women of the Bible to see their importance.
Rachel and Leah were sisters. They are introduced in Genesis 29. Read Genesis 29 and Genesis 30:1-24. This gives you a historical look at why these two women were critical in building Israel’s future generation.
With these sisters (and their concubines), Jacob had 12 sons (and a daughter). That would be quite a lot of mouths to feed!
Tamar is also listed here because she is the mother of Perez. Perez was a twin and an ancestor to King David and our Lord Jesus Christ! Read Tamar’s story in Genesis 38:1-30. To read more about this family tree, turn to Genesis 46.
The elders and other people (Ruth 4:11) who gave this blessing to Boaz about his marriage to Ruth were basically just relaying what they hoped for this couple’s future. However, there’s a bit more here!
The people also extended this blessing so that Ruth could build up the family of Israel. This was also accomplished by Rachel and Leah as they grew the family of Jacob in Genesis 29-30.
These few verses cram so much history, with even more to come!
What impact are you making on the world?
Related: How to Make a Difference with Volunteer Work
Impact the world. God has called each of us to make a difference. Determine your role today. The Lord is coming soon!
Ruth Bible Study Week 8: Biblework for Days 36-40
For Ruth Bible study week 8, in the daily Biblework, you are given the verses from that day’s lesson to read. Be sure you read them each day. The additional reading is important as well. Aim to do all of the assigned work. The more you put into it, the more you will get out.
Day 36 – Biblework
Today’s Verses: Ruth 4:1; John 10:9; John 14:6
Read the following additional verse(s): Genesis 19:1; Genesis 23:10; Genesis 34:20; Deuteronomy 17:5; Deuteronomy 21:19; Joshua 20:4
Answer these questions:
- When did you last turn to Jesus for a decision rather than the world?
- What causes you to hesitate to turn to Jesus for answers?
- In what ways has God answered your prayers in the past?
- Can you think of a time when you wish you would have turned to God over the world? What happened?
- According to 1 John 5:14-15, why should we be confident?
Day 37 – Biblework
Today’s Verses: Ruth 4:2
Read the following additional verse(s): Genesis 42:3; Romans 12:1-2; 2 Peter 3:11-14
Answer these questions:
- Why do you think Boaz wanted ten men present during this transaction?
- When you need a second or third opinion, do you turn to godly sources?
- When have you cared too much about what others thought of you? Explain.
- When have you compared your life to others? Explain.
- How could you live a more holy life – one that is a better example to others?
Day 38 – Biblework
Today’s Verses: Leviticus 25:25; Deuteronomy 25:5-10; Ruth 4:3-8
Read the following additional verse(s): Deuteronomy 7:3-4; Psalm 112:5; Proverbs 11:25; Jeremiah 32:6-8; 2 Corinthians 9:6-8
Answer these questions:
- Why do you think the “family redeemer” initially wanted to have the land?
- Why did this man decide against it?
- How was Boaz’s approach selfless?
- What will happen to a generous person, according to Proverbs 11:25?
- In what ways are you selfless? How could you improve in this area?
Day 39 – Biblework
Today’s Verses: Ruth 1:1; Ruth 4:9-10
Read the following additional verse(s): Genesis 29:16-30; Deuteronomy 25:6; Joshua 7:9; Proverbs 18:22; Proverbs 19:14; Isaiah 8:2-3; Jeremiah 32:10-12
Answer these questions:
- What were the benefits of Ruth marrying Boaz over being married to Mahlon?
- In the past, has there been a time when you did not do what is right? What happened?
- What happened during a time when you did what was right, but it didn’t seem to make a big difference?
- When making a big decision, how do you plan or prepare to ensure it is the best choice for you?
- In Genesis 29, how might Jacob have felt when he had to work additional time for Rachel? Explain.
Day 40 – Biblework
Today’s Verses: Genesis 29; Genesis 30:1-24; Genesis 38:1-30; Genesis 46; Ruth 4:11-12
Read the following additional verse(s): Numbers 26:20-21; 1 Samuel 17:12; Psalm 127
Answer these questions:
- What places are mentioned in Ruth 4:11-12? What is the significance of these locations as you read in 1 Samuel 17?
- Why did the people name Rachel and Leah as important when they gave their blessing?
- Why is the story of Tamar and Judah controversial?
- Which clans or “people” were started because of Perez (Numbers 26)?
- What are children, according to the author of Psalm 127? How do you view them?
In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. – John 16:33
Ruth Bible Study – Week 8: Digging Deeper Days 36-40
The Digging Deeper section gives you another activity to learn more from the daily lesson. While optional, you’ll want to do them. These activities are meant to help you grow deeper spiritually.
Day 36 – Digging Deeper
In many instances in John, Jesus is referenced as something other than our Savior. Make a list of all you learn about Jesus in the following passages. (Write out the specific verse that gave you the information). Read John 6:35, 8:12, 10:7-13, 11:25-27, 14:6, and 15:1-8.
Day 37 – Digging Deeper
Doing word studies helps us understand the original language more clearly. We can often learn how to live holier lives this way. In 2 Peter 3:11-14 (NASB), the words holy, godliness, spotless, and blameless are used. Do word studies on these terms, taking notes on your findings.
Day 38 – Digging Deeper
There are many possible reasons that the nearer relative might not have wanted to marry Ruth as part of this arrangement. He spoke of it jeopardizing his inheritance. Do a word study on jeopardize, looking at Deuteronomy 7:3-4 for further insight on the man’s possible reasoning.
Day 39 – Digging Deeper
As you learn in Ruth, the family name was critical in those days. It would greatly help Naomi and Ruth if Boaz married Ruth and allowed their male son to be the descendant of Mahlon. How many times is Mahlon mentioned in the Bible? What about Boaz? Interesting, right?
Day 40 – Digging Deeper
As you have now dug pretty deeply into this genealogy, it’s time to put pen to paper (or on the computer, if you are so inclined). Draw the family tree that includes the family members mentioned in today’s verses. Go from Abraham to David (and beyond, if possible)!
The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid? – Psalm 27:1
Bonus Bible Study Resources
These Bible Study resources can also help you grow spiritually. For more help with your Bible study, refer to the Bible study category of our website. Always pray before your Bible study time. May God richly bless His Word so that you will be able to best apply it!
Sharing Life and Love Bible Studies
How to Build a Quiet Time with God – In this 8-week Bible study, you will read and study portions of Psalms. You will also create your own quiet time with God.
How to Find Your Spiritual Calling – This 6-week Bible study takes you through the discovery of what God has called you to do.
Create Your Own God-Centered Goals – In this 5-day Bible study, you will learn how to create goals and make them centered around your faith.
Join the Community!
In our Facebook community, we work through many Bible studies. Our community is for ladies only (for now) and is called the Sharing Life and Love Sisters Bible Study Group.
Ruth Bible Study Week 8 Conclusion
In Ruth Bible study week 8, you have seen how you can make a difference in this world and how your actions and behaviors influence others. Do you think you are a good example – someone that others try to follow? Do you represent Christ in your walk?
In this week’s lessons, how are you going to change? What are you chewing on? What goals have you changed because of your newfound knowledge? I hope this week has taught you the importance of following Christ and being a shining example to others.
You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. – Matthew 5:14
