The name Boaz means “mighty man”. As soon as Boaz appeared on the scene, Ruth became the object of his affection and attention. Now that Boaz was watching over Ruth she had nothing to fear. Ruth enjoyed many blessings because of what Boaz’s actions.

1. The Blessing of Guidance

The people of Israel knew where the boundaries were but Ruth was a stranger. In fact, she found her way to the field of Boaz because of the providence of God. Boaz watched over her. Boaz is a type of Christ and Ruth is a type of the Church. See Psalm 32:8 and Proverbs 3:5-6.

2. The Blessing of Protection

Ruth was young and we get the impression that she was attractive. She was also a widow and a foreigner. Some people would not respect her because she was a Moabitess. Also, because it was harvest season much celebrating and revelry and even misbehaving would occur. Ruth could have been in danger but Boaz was now protecting her. He had told his maidens to watch over her and he also warned the young men not to touch her. Some of them might be tempted but they knew that Boaz would act swiftly and surely.

Christians need the protection of fellowship. We need fellow believers who will walk with us, guide us and rebuke us if necessary. God is watching over us and will protect and guide us in troubled times. See Psalm 91:11; 46:1 & Romans 8:28.

3. The Blessing of Provision

Boaz not only allowed her to glean in his field but he also told the young men to drop handfuls on purpose for Ruth to gather. The Mosaic Law only required that they did not go back over their fields and pick up what was dropped. The Law also said they should no reap in the corners of the field but leave it for the poor. Boaz provided grain for Ruth to glean. He also provided water for her to drink. The Lord provides for our needs. See Philippians 4:19 & Matthew 6:25-33.

4. The Blessing of Encouragement

Boaz didn’t speak to Ruth’s ears, he spoke to her heart. He comforted and encourages her by the words he spoke.

5. The Blessing of Fellowship

Boaz extended to Ruth an invitation to come and dine with him and his servants. Boaz knew that Ruth needed the fellowship of others to strengthen her new-found faith in God.

6. The Blessing of Acceptance

Boaz made sure that Ruth was not treated like a foreigner, a widow or a poor woman. They were to accept her. In spite of our background we have been accepted by Jesus Christ.

7. The Blessing of Satisfaction

Ruth’s past was forgotten. She had now been accepted and was not being treated like a stranger. Her future was full of hope because someone cared for her. Her present needs were being met so she was satisfied. She could never have been so satisfied in Moab because Moab is a picture of the world and the world does not offer any satisfaction.

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