Introduction

Today’s reading occurred on Friday, but sometimes health issues get in my way. In reading the passage, I am reminded of favor. Have you experienced favor, favor from a friend, favor from a relative, or favor from God? Take a minute and thank God for that favor. This weekend I received a favor from a friend. Do you recognize how Ruth receives favor in today’s reading?

Reading and Assignment

Ruth 2:18-23, Psalm 119:68, SOAP Ruth 2: 20

Scripture

And Naomi said unto her daughter in law, Blessed be he of the Lord, who hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead. And Naomi said unto her, The man is near of kin unto us, one of our next kinsmen” (Ruth 2:20, KJV).

Observation

Namoi shares with Ruth. She gives credit to God. She remembers her past and proclaims her future. She acknowledges that Boaz is her kin and a kinsmen redeemer.

Application

How do you give credit when you experience God’s favor? Do you remember God’s faithfulness? Tell of a time when you experienced God’s favor.

Prayer

Father God, blessed be the name of the Lord. Thank you for the favor I have in my life. Thank you for your word. Father God, for the one reading this that is hurting and needs to find favor will you grant this, bring someone in her life to show her love and favor. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Conclusion

In reading the commentaries, Naomi could be referring to her husband and sons, when she speaks of the dead. In that culture, they would leave food for the dead, however, it does not suggest she did that. She is aware of the tradition of the close relative being responsible for her and Ruth which is covered in scripture Deuteronomy 19: 6, 12. In Psalm 119: 68 says, “Thou art good, and doest good; teach me thy statutes.” God is good.

I experienced favor on Friday and Saturday from a friend. She spoiled me by inviting me to her home. We played games and ate wonderful food. It was wonderful to sleep in and then to have breakfast cooked for me. Ruth experiences favor and thereby Naomi also experiences favor.

My wish for each of you reading this that you acknowledge God and see his favor.

I will extol thee, my God, O king; and I will bless thy name for ever and ever.

 Every day will I bless thee; and I will praise thy name for ever and ever.

 Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness is unsearchable” (Psalm 145: 1-3, KJV)