Filled to Overflowing: The Abundant Provision of Our Boaz
"And she said, These six measures of barley gave he me; for he said to me, Go not empty unto thy mother in law." - Ruth 3:17
The Book of Ruth narrates a compelling story of loyalty, grace, and divine providence. Chapter 3, verse 17 presents us with a profound moment, illustrated by Ruth’s words: "And she said, These six measures of barley gave he me; for he said to me, Go not empty unto thy mother in law." This verse encapsulates a transition in Ruth's life — from emptiness to abundance, showcasing not only her devoted relationship with Naomi but also the expression of Boaz’s kindness and fulfillment of God's promises.
In the ancient agrarian culture where Ruth lived, barley was not merely a staple food; it represented security and sustenance. For Ruth, the six measures of barley were a testament of hope and provision. Nevertheless, the deeper significance lies in the statement, "Go not empty unto thy mother in law." This phrase reflects Boaz’s understanding of Ruth’s commitment to Naomi, and his desire to ensure that Ruth returns to her not just with barley, but carrying a message from the one who is representative of God’s faithfulness. The measure of barley is not just a physical provision, but also an emblem of the spiritual and relational abundance that is so deeply woven into the fabric of Ruth's story.
Throughout Scripture, the act of giving is a profound illustration of God’s nature. As Boaz generously filled Ruth’s arms with barley, it serves as a reminder of how God fills our spiritual and emotional cups (Psalm 23:5). Boaz’s benevolent gesture towards Ruth parallels how God cares for us, ensuring that we are never left empty-handed. Just as Ruth was instructed to not return to Naomi empty, we too are encouraged to share the blessings we receive with those around us. The act of giving extends beyond mere material possessions; it encapsulates the offering of love, kindness, and encouragement to those in need.
Ruth entered the fields of Boaz as a gleaner, a foreigner among God’s people. Her journey reflects the essence of humility and hard work. Despite her marginalized status, her diligence and respect for her mother-in-law brought her into the favor of a godly man, Boaz. The lesson here is multifaceted: God often uses our small acts of faithfulness and love to propel us into greater destinies. Ruth did not see herself as worthy of Boaz’s grace, yet it was in her courage and loyalty that she was lifted from obscurity to prominence.
It can be easy to feel empty in our own lives — void of joy, hope, or direction. Yet the story of Ruth illustrates that even in times of emptiness, we are positioned for abundance. God's heart implores us to lean into our relationship with Him during these seasons. In our times of lack, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, we can turn to God, reminding ourselves that He is the ultimate provider; He understands every groove and grain of our needs. Just as Boaz sought to bless Ruth, our Heavenly Father pours out His blessings upon us, ensuring we are filled as we walk in obedience and faith.
As we reflect on Ruth 3:17, may we consider what 'empty' might look like in our own lives. Are there areas where we feel we have little to give or are in need? Let’s bring these before the Lord, trusting that He sees our efforts and hears our needs. When we experience His provision - be it a word of encouragement, a financial blessing, or even a renewed spirit - let’s remember to share these blessings with those around us. Like Ruth, we will discover that in giving, we find our own hearts filled to overflowing.
In conclusion, let Ruth's journey encourage us to seek God for our needs while extending His blessings to others. In our obedience and stewardship, may we find ourselves not just receiving, but overflowing with the bounty of His grace.
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Ruth 3:17 - "And she said, These six measures of barley gave he me; for he said to me, Go not empty unto thy mother in law."
"And she said, These six measures of barley gave he me; for he said to me, Go not empty unto thy mother in law." - Ruth 3:17
Ruth 3:9 - "And he said, Who art thou? And she answered, I am Ruth thine handmaid: spread therefore thy skirt over thine handmaid; for thou art a near kinsman."
Ruth 2:3 – "So she went out, entered a field and began to glean behind the harvesters."
Ruth 1:3 - "And Elimelech Naomi's husband died; and she was left, and her two sons."
Ruth 2:17 - "So she gleaned in the field until even, and beat out that she had gleaned: and it was about an ephah of barley."
Ruth 3:1 - "Then Naomi her mother in law said unto her, My daughter, shall I not seek rest for thee, that it may be well with thee?"
Ruth 3:5 - "And she said unto her, All that thou sayest unto me I will do."
Ruth 3:8 - "¶ And it came to pass at midnight, that the man was afraid, and turned himself: and, behold, a woman lay at his feet."
Ruth 3:12 - "And now it is true that I am thy near kinsman: howbeit there is a kinsman nearer than I."
Ruth 1:17 - "Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me."
Ruth 4:17 - "And the women her neighbours gave it a name, saying, There is a son born to Naomi; and they called his name Obed: he is the father of Jesse, the father of David."
Ruth 3:6 - "¶ And she went down unto the floor, and did according to all that her mother in law bade her."
Ruth 3:2 - "And now is not Boaz of our kindred, with whose maidens thou wast? Behold, he winnoweth barley to night in the threshingfloor."
Ruth 1:16-17 - "But Ruth replied, "Don't urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the LORD deal with me, be it ever so severely, if even death separates you and me.""
Ruth 4:3 - "And he said unto the kinsman, Naomi, that is come again out of the country of Moab, selleth a parcel of land, which was our brother Elimelech's:"
Ruth 3:3 - "Wash thyself therefore, and anoint thee, and put thy raiment upon thee, and get thee down to the floor: but make not thyself known unto the man, until he shall have done eating and drinking."
Ruth 2:3 - "And she went, and came, and gleaned in the field after the reapers: and her hap was to light on a part of the field belonging unto Boaz, who was of the kindred of Elimelech."
"And now it is true that I am thy near kinsman: howbeit there is a kinsman nearer than I." - Ruth 3:12
"Then said she, Sit still, my daughter, until thou know how the matter will fall: for the man will not be in rest, until he have finished the thing this day." - Ruth 3:18
"And when she came to her mother in law, she said, Who art thou, my daughter? And she told her all that the man had done to her." - Ruth 3:16
Ruth 3:11 - "And now, my daughter, fear not; I will do to thee all that thou requirest: for all the city of my people doth know that thou art a virtuous woman."
Ruth 3:18 - "Then said she, Sit still, my daughter, until thou know how the matter will fall: for the man will not be in rest, until he have finished the thing this day."
"And Elimelech Naomi's husband died; and she was left, and her two sons." - Ruth 1:3
Ruth 3:14 - "¶ And she lay at his feet until the morning: and she rose up before one could know another. And he said, Let it not be known that a woman came into the floor."
Ruth 3:16 - "And when she came to her mother in law, she said, Who art thou, my daughter? And she told her all that the man had done to her."
Ruth 3:15 - "Also he said, Bring the vail that thou hast upon thee, and hold it. And when she held it, he measured six measures of barley, and laid it on her: and she went into the city."
"And he said, Who art thou? And she answered, I am Ruth thine handmaid: spread therefore thy skirt over thine handmaid; for thou art a near kinsman." - Ruth 3:9
"¶ And it came to pass at midnight, that the man was afraid, and turned himself: and, behold, a woman lay at his feet." - Ruth 3:8
"And she said unto her, All that thou sayest unto me I will do." - Ruth 3:5