Ruth 4 and the Beauty of God’s Timing
Hey sweet friend,
We’ve reached the final chapter in the book of Ruth—and wow, what a beautiful ending it is. Ruth 4 wraps up this tender story with redemption, restoration, and a future more meaningful than anyone could’ve imagined. And if you’ve been walking through your own season of waiting or wondering, this chapter might just be the breath of fresh hope your heart needs today.
Let’s walk through it together—just us girls, Bible in hand.
Boaz Steps In—A Picture of Redeeming Love
Right at the start of chapter 4, Boaz gets to work. No delay. No hesitation. He heads to the town gate and does what only a man of character would do: he handles things the right way.
There’s another relative who technically has the first right to redeem Naomi’s land and marry Ruth. Boaz respectfully brings him into the conversation, but when that man steps back, Boaz steps forward—fully and completely.
“You are witnesses today that I have bought from Naomi all the property… I have also acquired Ruth the Moabitess… as my wife…”
—Ruth 4:9–10
Can you picture it? Boaz standing tall in the city gate, declaring his love and intention—not in secret, but out in the open. His actions aren’t just about marrying Ruth; they’re about restoring a family line, protecting Naomi, and honoring what was lost.
And here’s what’s so beautiful: Boaz gives us a glimpse of Jesus. Our Redeemer. The One who sees us—outcast, overlooked, or burdened—and says, “I choose you.” Not out of obligation, but out of deep, pursuing love.
Naomi’s Empty Arms Are Full Again
Let’s not forget Naomi. When we first met her, her heart was shattered. She even asked to be called “Mara,” which means bitter, because her life felt so full of loss (Ruth 1:20).
But look at her now. In Ruth 4:13–17, Ruth gives birth to a baby boy, and the women of the town gather around Naomi with joy. They place the baby in her arms and say something so tender:
“Praise be to the Lord, who this day has not left you without a kinsman-redeemer… He will renew your life and sustain you in your old age.”
—Ruth 4:14–15
Can you just imagine Naomi holding that sweet baby, tears of joy running down her face? Her arms, once empty, now cradle a promise of God’s faithfulness.
Maybe you’re in a “Naomi season” right now—where something precious feels lost, and the future feels uncertain. Can I gently remind you? The same God who met Naomi in her sorrow is the One who is working behind the scenes in your story too. He is the God who restores. The God who renews. The God who fills empty arms.
From Ruth to Royalty: A Legacy of Grace
The chapter ends with a quiet little genealogy. It might feel like a list of names, but don’t miss what’s happening here: Ruth—the outsider, the Moabite, the widow—is now part of something royal.
“Obed was the father of Jesse, and Jesse the father of David.”
—Ruth 4:22
Yes, that David. The shepherd-king. The one through whom Jesus, our Messiah, would one day be born.
Friend, Ruth probably had no idea what her faithfulness would lead to. But isn’t that just like God? To take a story that seemed small and write it into something eternal?
If you’ve ever felt unseen in your daily obedience—in the quiet sacrifices, the prayers no one hears, the love you keep giving—take heart. God sees it all. And He is still in the business of weaving legacy out of faithfulness.
Let’s Reflect, Together
Here are a few truths to tuck into your heart as you close this chapter:
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God doesn’t forget the faithful. Your quiet “yes” to Him matters more than you know.
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There’s beauty in obedience. Even when it doesn’t make headlines, it moves heaven.
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Redemption is always possible. Nothing is too lost, too far gone, or too late for our God.
So wherever you are today—maybe you feel like Ruth, stepping into the unknown. Or Naomi, waiting for joy to return. Or even like Boaz, being called to step into someone’s story with courage and kindness—know this: the God of Ruth chapter 4 is your God too. And He is still redeeming and restoring, in ways you may not even see yet.
Jesus,
I thank You for the beautiful story of Ruth—a reminder that You see ordinary women and do extraordinary things through our simple, faithful yes. Thank You for showing us, through Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz, that You are always working behind the scenes with kindness, purpose, and redemption in mind.
Thank You for living a life of love—teaching us with Your words, leading us by example, and carrying the weight of our shame and sorrow all the way to the cross. Thank You for redeeming us, not out of obligation, but out of deep and perfect love. We praise You for rising in victory, just as foretold—proving that You truly are the prophesied Messiah, the One who came to save and set us free.
You are the God who steps in, who lifts up, who restores. You are our Redeemer, our Hope, and our Forever Faithful Friend.
Help us, Lord, to walk in faith like Ruth, to live with honor and integrity like Boaz, and to trust You in the waiting like Naomi. Even when we don’t see the whole picture, let us rest in knowing You are writing something beautiful—one chapter at a time.
Our hearts are full of love and gratitude, Lord—we trust You completely and wait, knowing Your plans for us are always good.
In the powerful and precious name of Jesus.
Amen.
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