May the LORD repay your work, and may you receive a rich reward from the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have taken refuge." May the LORD repay your workThe phrase begins with a blessing, invoking the divine name "LORD," which in Hebrew is "YHWH," the covenant name of God. This highlights the personal relationship between God and His people. The concept of God repaying work is rooted in the Hebrew understanding of divine justice and reward. In the context of Ruth, a Moabite woman who has shown extraordinary loyalty and kindness to her mother-in-law Naomi, this blessing acknowledges her virtuous actions. Theologically, it reflects the biblical principle that God sees and rewards righteousness and faithfulness, as seen in passages like Hebrews 11:6. and may you receive a rich reward from the LORD, the God of Israel under whose wings you have taken refuge Persons / Places / Events 1. RuthA Moabite widow who demonstrates loyalty and faithfulness by staying with her mother-in-law, Naomi, and seeking refuge under the God of Israel. 2. Boaz A wealthy and influential landowner in Bethlehem who shows kindness and protection to Ruth, recognizing her faith and dedication. 3. Naomi Ruth's mother-in-law, who returns to Bethlehem from Moab after the death of her husband and sons, accompanied by Ruth. 4. Bethlehem The town in Judah where Naomi and Ruth return, and where Boaz's fields are located. 5. The Lord (Yahweh) The God of Israel, under whose wings Ruth seeks refuge, as acknowledged by Boaz. Teaching Points God's Reward for FaithfulnessRuth 2:12 highlights the principle that God rewards those who earnestly seek Him and live faithfully. Ruth's commitment to Naomi and her trust in God are recognized and blessed by Boaz. Seeking Refuge in God The imagery of seeking refuge under God's wings is a powerful reminder of His protection and care. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's provision and shelter in times of need. Kindness and Generosity Boaz's actions towards Ruth demonstrate the importance of showing kindness and generosity to others, especially those who are vulnerable or in need. Cross-Cultural Acceptance Ruth, a Moabite, is accepted and blessed within the community of Israel, illustrating God's inclusive love and the breaking down of cultural barriers through faith. Divine Providence The events in Ruth's life show God's providential care and guidance, encouraging believers to trust in His plans even when circumstances seem uncertain. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Ruth's decision to seek refuge under the wings of the God of Israel challenge us in our own faith journey?2. In what ways can we show kindness and generosity to those who are vulnerable in our communities, as Boaz did for Ruth? 3. How does the imagery of God as a refuge and protector provide comfort in your current life situation? 4. What can we learn from Ruth's account about the importance of cross-cultural acceptance and breaking down barriers? 5. How do the themes of divine providence and God's reward for faithfulness in Ruth 2:12 connect with other biblical accounts you are familiar with? Connections to Other Scriptures Psalm 91:4This verse speaks of God covering His people with His feathers and providing refuge under His wings, similar to the imagery used by Boaz in Ruth 2:12. Matthew 23:37 Jesus uses the metaphor of a hen gathering her chicks under her wings, echoing the protective imagery found in Ruth 2:12. Hebrews 11:6 This verse emphasizes that God rewards those who earnestly seek Him, paralleling Boaz's blessing over Ruth for seeking refuge under God's wings.
People Boaz, Elimelech, Ephah, Naomi, RuthPlaces Bethlehem, MoabTopics Complete, Cover, Full, Hast, Recompense, Refuge, Repay, Reward, Rewarded, Richly, Seek, Trust, Wages, WingsDictionary of Bible Themes Ruth 2:12 1215 God, feminine descriptions 8252 faithfulness, relationships Library A Full Reward. "It hath fully been shewed me, all that thou hast done ... and how thou hast left they father and thy mother, and the land of thy nativity, and art come unto a people which thou knewest not heretofore. The LORD recompense thy work, and a full reward be given thee of the LORD GOD of Israel, under whose wings thou art come to trust" (Ruth ii. 11, 12). In this interesting narrative we have another instance of the way in which the HOLY GHOST teaches by typical lives. We have dwelt on some precious lessons … J. Hudson Taylor—A Ribband of Blue Formation and History of the Hebrew Canon. Scriptural Poems; Being Several Portions of Scripture Digested into English Verse The Exile --Continued. Appendix viii. Rabbinic Traditions About Elijah, the Forerunner of the Messiah The Pilgrim's Progress Ruth Links Ruth 2:12 NIVRuth 2:12 NLT Ruth 2:12 ESV Ruth 2:12 NASB Ruth 2:12 KJV Ruth 2:12 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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