Being like Ruth

So she departed and went and gleaned in the field after the reapers; and she happened to come to the portion of the field belonging to Boaz, who was of the family of Elimelech. (Ruth 2:3)

From Spurgeon's Morning & Evening Devotions -
"And she happened." Yes, it seemed nothing but an accident, but how divinely was it overruled! Ruth had gone forth with her mother’s blessing, under the care of her mother’s God, to humble but honorable toil, and the providence of God was guiding her every step. Little did she know that amid the sheaves she would find a husband, that he should make her the joint owner of all those broad acres, and that she a poor foreigner should become one of the progenitors of the great Messiah. God is very good to those who trust in him, and often surprises them with unlooked for blessings. Little do we know what may happen to us to-morrow, but this sweet fact may cheer us, that no good thing shall be withheld. Chance is banished from the faith of Christians, for they see the hand of God in everything. The trivial events of today or tomorrow may involve consequences of the highest importance. O Lord, deal as graciously with thy servants as thou did with Ruth.

I love the book of Ruth. It is a love story. It is also a picture of Christ as the Kinsman Redeemer. It is a beautiful story full of rich detail, curious customs and amazing results.

Some day, I would like to do a study on Ruth showing the importance of serving whole-heartedly, with no agenda other than to be obedient to God and seek to please Him above all else. Ruth was doing as she was instructed and had no plan to pursue a husband while she tried to collect food for her and her mother-in-law, Naomi.

How different our lives could look if we were to pursue glorifying God, obeying His instruction and seeking to please Him as we live our lives. We are guaranteed He will not withhold any good thing from us. So why do we live as if we have no eternal promise of good to come?

Ah, perhaps it is the old syndrome of "I know better how to meet my own needs." How sad! Do you truly believe Ruth could have schemed, planned & manipulated events to turn out as they did in her life?

What would your day look like if you continually focused on God in all you said and did? Are you eager to see God's provision in your life? Are you joyfully expectant of the good things the Father will provide for you? Why not?

He is the Creator of everything. He designed you specifically for His glory and His purposes.

Why would you pursue any thing or any one else?

Indeed, why would I?