God’s bountiful blessings

As we continue our study, Ruth was able to glean feeling totally secure in Boaz's field.

Boaz demonstrated his kindness and generosity.  Not only did he let Ruth glean in his field, he also told his workers to let some of the grain fall in her path as we see in Ruth 2:15-16.  Out of his abundance he provided for the needy.  How often do we go beyond the accepted patterns of providing for those less fortunate?

Gleaning went from early morning to evening, before sundown. After sundown was the time to beat out what was gathered.

Let's look at Ruth 2:17 "So she gleaned in the field until evening. Then she beat out what she had gleaned, and it was about an ephah of barley." An ephah of barley is about 5.5 gallons or a basket full which is about half a bushel. Some commentators say it was enough food for two women for one to two weeks. This was not the norm for a poor widow to glean – Boaz made sure she was able to take more than normal home.

My friend, no matter what our circumstances are, no matter what is happening in our life today, we have hope. It may feel as if we are at our lowest point, but God is always with us to provide for us and to protect us. As Christians we don't have to worry, God promises to meet our needs according to His will.