1 00:00:00,120 --> 00:00:05,240 Speaker 1: Pray allude to chapter three. The night clung to Jericho 2 00:00:05,880 --> 00:00:10,600 Speaker 1: like a shroud, its streets veiled in shadow. Two figures 3 00:00:10,680 --> 00:00:15,280 Speaker 1: darted between alleys, their cloaks drawn tight, their steps swift 4 00:00:15,480 --> 00:00:20,520 Speaker 1: but silent. The Israelite spies moved with precision, their eyes 5 00:00:20,560 --> 00:00:25,200 Speaker 1: scanning every corner, every flicker of torchlight sent by Joshua. 6 00:00:25,520 --> 00:00:29,479 Speaker 1: Their mission was simple, assess the enemy, measure the strength 7 00:00:29,520 --> 00:00:33,680 Speaker 1: of Jericho's defenses, and return with what they learned. But 8 00:00:33,800 --> 00:00:38,879 Speaker 1: simplicity and safety rarely walked the same road paved roose. 9 00:00:39,680 --> 00:00:43,640 Speaker 1: The cries shattered, the silence followed by the clatter of swords. 10 00:00:44,120 --> 00:00:48,239 Speaker 1: Torches bobbed in the darkness. As guards charged toward the spies. 11 00:00:48,760 --> 00:00:52,360 Speaker 1: They broke into a sprint, weaving through narrow passages, their 12 00:00:52,400 --> 00:00:56,280 Speaker 1: breaths quick and shallow. The footsteps behind them grew louder, 13 00:00:56,600 --> 00:01:00,600 Speaker 1: and the walls of Jericho loomed higher, unyielding. At the 14 00:01:00,680 --> 00:01:03,320 Speaker 1: edge of the city, they spotted a house built into 15 00:01:03,320 --> 00:01:07,119 Speaker 1: the wall. Its doorway was draped with a scarlet tapestry, 16 00:01:07,319 --> 00:01:10,920 Speaker 1: its windows glowing faintly with the torchlight. The air was 17 00:01:11,000 --> 00:01:14,280 Speaker 1: thick with the scent of incense and perfume. There was 18 00:01:14,319 --> 00:01:17,399 Speaker 1: no doubt this was the home of a prostitute. They 19 00:01:17,440 --> 00:01:21,840 Speaker 1: hesitated for only a moment before slipping inside. The room 20 00:01:21,959 --> 00:01:25,080 Speaker 1: was warm, with a haze of incense curling in the air. 21 00:01:25,800 --> 00:01:29,360 Speaker 1: A woman emerged from the shadows, her gown loose, her 22 00:01:29,400 --> 00:01:30,560 Speaker 1: movements languid. 23 00:01:31,040 --> 00:01:35,680 Speaker 2: Greetings, gentlemen, I am Rayhaw, your host and servant. How 24 00:01:35,720 --> 00:01:37,360 Speaker 2: may I please you this evening? 25 00:01:38,240 --> 00:01:41,520 Speaker 1: But her eyes bidened as she saw their faces, their 26 00:01:41,560 --> 00:01:42,959 Speaker 1: bearing unmistakable. 27 00:01:43,720 --> 00:01:45,120 Speaker 2: Your Israelites? 28 00:01:45,319 --> 00:01:45,679 Speaker 3: Are you? 29 00:01:46,520 --> 00:01:50,120 Speaker 2: Please? Don't hurt me. My family depends on me. We'ven 30 00:01:50,200 --> 00:01:53,880 Speaker 2: you harm. It shall done just for the night. 31 00:01:54,560 --> 00:01:58,440 Speaker 1: But before another word could be spoken, shouting erupted outside. 32 00:01:58,840 --> 00:02:01,640 Speaker 1: Rayhab darted to the window, her eyes narrowing. 33 00:02:02,000 --> 00:02:03,240 Speaker 4: The guards were closing in. 34 00:02:04,080 --> 00:02:06,840 Speaker 2: The guards are coming. Follow me to the roof quickly. 35 00:02:07,720 --> 00:02:10,440 Speaker 1: The men had no choice but to trust her. She 36 00:02:10,600 --> 00:02:13,640 Speaker 1: led them to the roof, where bundles of flax lay drying. 37 00:02:14,360 --> 00:02:14,799 Speaker 3: D here. 38 00:02:15,240 --> 00:02:15,840 Speaker 2: Don't move. 39 00:02:16,639 --> 00:02:20,640 Speaker 1: Rayhab adjusted her gown and composed herself, her steps slow 40 00:02:20,760 --> 00:02:24,160 Speaker 1: and deliberate as she descended to meet the intruders. The 41 00:02:24,200 --> 00:02:27,720 Speaker 1: guards burst into her home, their swords drawn, their eyes 42 00:02:27,800 --> 00:02:29,000 Speaker 1: scanning every shadow. 43 00:02:29,240 --> 00:02:30,920 Speaker 4: Where are they below? 44 00:02:31,240 --> 00:02:34,079 Speaker 5: Israelites were seen entering this an area. 45 00:02:34,400 --> 00:02:37,200 Speaker 1: Ray Haab tilted her head, feigning ignorance. 46 00:02:37,919 --> 00:02:42,160 Speaker 2: Men were here, but they didn't stand. I didn't ask 47 00:02:42,200 --> 00:02:45,040 Speaker 2: where they were from. They left through the city gates 48 00:02:45,080 --> 00:02:48,480 Speaker 2: before they closed. If you hurry, you might catch them. 49 00:02:48,880 --> 00:02:54,440 Speaker 1: The guards exchanged glances, their suspicion battling with urgency. Finally, 50 00:02:54,840 --> 00:02:58,359 Speaker 1: they turned and stormed out, their shouts, fading into the night. 51 00:02:59,320 --> 00:03:03,240 Speaker 1: Rahab exiled, her heart pounding, and returned to the roof. 52 00:03:03,960 --> 00:03:07,440 Speaker 1: Pulling back the blankets, she found the spies staring at her, 53 00:03:07,880 --> 00:03:11,160 Speaker 1: their faces a mixture of gratitude and disbelief. 54 00:03:11,760 --> 00:03:12,640 Speaker 2: The guards are gone. 55 00:03:12,880 --> 00:03:16,200 Speaker 5: You're safer, now, Why have you helped us? 56 00:03:17,200 --> 00:03:20,640 Speaker 1: Rahab looked out over the dark land beyond the city walls, 57 00:03:21,120 --> 00:03:23,320 Speaker 1: her voice soft but resolute. 58 00:03:25,160 --> 00:03:29,360 Speaker 2: Because I know who your God is. We all do. 59 00:03:30,440 --> 00:03:33,679 Speaker 2: We've heard of how he parted the sea, of how 60 00:03:33,720 --> 00:03:37,560 Speaker 2: he destroyed the kings of the Amorites. The hearts of 61 00:03:37,600 --> 00:03:41,720 Speaker 2: everyone in Jericho have melted in fear. Your God is 62 00:03:41,760 --> 00:03:47,200 Speaker 2: not like ours. He is the God of heaven and earth. 63 00:03:48,040 --> 00:03:49,880 Speaker 5: How can we repay your kindness? 64 00:03:50,640 --> 00:03:53,800 Speaker 2: Swear to me, by your Lord that you will spare 65 00:03:53,840 --> 00:03:56,960 Speaker 2: my family when you take this city. My father, my mother, 66 00:03:57,160 --> 00:04:00,960 Speaker 2: my brothers, my sisters. Promise me they will live. 67 00:04:01,480 --> 00:04:02,320 Speaker 4: You have our word. 68 00:04:03,080 --> 00:04:06,640 Speaker 5: The scarlet cord hanging over your wall, make sure it 69 00:04:06,720 --> 00:04:09,839 Speaker 5: hangs in your window. It will be a sign to us. 70 00:04:10,600 --> 00:04:13,800 Speaker 5: Stay inside your house, and no harm will come to 71 00:04:13,880 --> 00:04:15,320 Speaker 5: you or your family. 72 00:04:15,960 --> 00:04:16,839 Speaker 4: This I swear. 73 00:04:17,480 --> 00:04:21,720 Speaker 1: Rayhab nodded, lowering the men over the wall. She watched 74 00:04:21,800 --> 00:04:25,520 Speaker 1: them disappear into the shadows, her grip tightening on the rope. 75 00:04:26,160 --> 00:04:28,880 Speaker 1: She did not know what the future held, but in 76 00:04:28,960 --> 00:04:32,320 Speaker 1: her heart she felt the weight of something far greater 77 00:04:32,440 --> 00:04:37,159 Speaker 1: at work. The scarlet cord remained a thread of hope 78 00:04:37,279 --> 00:04:41,800 Speaker 1: woven into the tapestry of fortemption. Rayhab's name would not 79 00:04:41,920 --> 00:04:45,640 Speaker 1: be forgotten. The woman who hid spies would one day 80 00:04:45,680 --> 00:04:49,160 Speaker 1: be bound to the lineage of kings. When the israel 81 00:04:49,240 --> 00:04:52,240 Speaker 1: Lights took the city of Jericho and the walls came 82 00:04:52,320 --> 00:04:57,000 Speaker 1: crumbling down, Rayhab married a warrior named Salmon from the 83 00:04:57,080 --> 00:05:01,560 Speaker 1: tribe of Judah. Their love would bear us son Bo. 84 00:05:01,560 --> 00:05:09,600 Speaker 6: Has Welcome back to pray dot COM's Heroes in the Bible, Ruth. 85 00:05:10,400 --> 00:05:14,159 Speaker 6: I'm your host, Savannah Chrisley, and I'm so glad that 86 00:05:14,200 --> 00:05:18,120 Speaker 6: you're here. Subscribe to this channel and follow the podcast 87 00:05:18,240 --> 00:05:22,120 Speaker 6: for more amazing stories like these. You can also find 88 00:05:22,160 --> 00:05:25,279 Speaker 6: a treasure Trove of truth to help your walk with 89 00:05:25,360 --> 00:05:28,800 Speaker 6: God in the Prey dot com app. If you've been 90 00:05:28,839 --> 00:05:32,320 Speaker 6: following along, then you know that Ruth's story has already 91 00:05:32,360 --> 00:05:35,760 Speaker 6: been a powerful one. In chapter one, we saw Ruth's 92 00:05:35,880 --> 00:05:39,680 Speaker 6: radical decision to stay with Naomi when she could have 93 00:05:39,839 --> 00:05:44,120 Speaker 6: just walked away. In chapter two, we saw Ruth's faith 94 00:05:44,279 --> 00:05:48,479 Speaker 6: and action. She showed up, worked hard, and was faithful. 95 00:05:48,960 --> 00:05:52,520 Speaker 6: And now we've made it to chapter three and things 96 00:05:52,839 --> 00:05:56,640 Speaker 6: are about to get real. Our prelude for today's story 97 00:05:57,080 --> 00:06:00,760 Speaker 6: featured Rahab, a woman who has had to make a 98 00:06:00,920 --> 00:06:05,039 Speaker 6: bold choice to save her family. This whole chapter of 99 00:06:05,160 --> 00:06:10,160 Speaker 6: Ruth is about boldness. It's about taking risk. It's about 100 00:06:10,200 --> 00:06:15,719 Speaker 6: stepping into moments that feel uncomfortable but yet necessary. And 101 00:06:16,200 --> 00:06:19,039 Speaker 6: if you've ever had to make a big, scary move, 102 00:06:19,640 --> 00:06:22,000 Speaker 6: chapter three will most certainly speak to you. 103 00:06:24,720 --> 00:06:28,479 Speaker 1: The coals of the previous night's fire had faded to gray, 104 00:06:28,680 --> 00:06:32,400 Speaker 1: cold embers by the time Ruth stirred. She wrapped her 105 00:06:32,400 --> 00:06:36,200 Speaker 1: blanket tighter as she knelt by the hearth. Her hands 106 00:06:36,240 --> 00:06:40,920 Speaker 1: worked methodically stroking the ashes, blowing softly until a flicker 107 00:06:40,960 --> 00:06:45,279 Speaker 1: of life reignited. The fire crackled weakly, and she added 108 00:06:45,360 --> 00:06:48,559 Speaker 1: kindling until its warmth began to chase away the chill. 109 00:06:49,279 --> 00:06:53,360 Speaker 1: She rubbed her calloused hands together, staring into the flames. 110 00:06:53,920 --> 00:06:57,680 Speaker 1: Her body ached from weeks of labor, but the soreness 111 00:06:57,839 --> 00:07:01,840 Speaker 1: no longer discouraged her. As a mark of her growing strength, 112 00:07:02,720 --> 00:07:06,120 Speaker 1: Ruth had found purpose in the fields. Her days were 113 00:07:06,200 --> 00:07:10,520 Speaker 1: long and grueling, but they were filled with camaraderie. The 114 00:07:10,560 --> 00:07:15,440 Speaker 1: women sang as they gleamed, shared stories, and sometimes even 115 00:07:15,480 --> 00:07:19,600 Speaker 1: surprised Ruth and Naomi with fig cakes. It brought her joy, 116 00:07:19,760 --> 00:07:23,200 Speaker 1: But the season was drawing to a close, and a 117 00:07:23,200 --> 00:07:27,240 Speaker 1: gnawing unease began to settle over her heart. What would 118 00:07:27,280 --> 00:07:30,360 Speaker 1: happen when the harvest season is over? How would she 119 00:07:30,400 --> 00:07:34,880 Speaker 1: continue to care for Naomi? Ruth pushed those thoughts aside. 120 00:07:35,360 --> 00:07:39,000 Speaker 1: She pulled her hair back, tied her sandals, and prepared 121 00:07:39,000 --> 00:07:43,080 Speaker 1: to glean. The market place greeted her with familiar sights 122 00:07:43,120 --> 00:07:48,760 Speaker 1: and sounds. Venders called out cheerfully, and Ruth waved back salon. 123 00:07:49,840 --> 00:07:53,400 Speaker 1: By mid morning, Ruth was immersed in her labor, her 124 00:07:53,440 --> 00:07:58,120 Speaker 1: hands moving with practiced efficiency. The other women hummed joyfully 125 00:07:58,440 --> 00:08:02,440 Speaker 1: excited for the coming harvest festival and the promise of rest, 126 00:08:03,200 --> 00:08:07,480 Speaker 1: but Ruth's focus was unwavering. Every stock she gathered was 127 00:08:07,520 --> 00:08:11,800 Speaker 1: another meal, another day of provision for Naomi. As the 128 00:08:11,880 --> 00:08:16,600 Speaker 1: sun dipped lower, its once cruel heat softened, Ruth filled 129 00:08:16,640 --> 00:08:19,800 Speaker 1: her second basket, wiping sweat from her brow with a 130 00:08:19,840 --> 00:08:24,640 Speaker 1: satisfied smile. The labor was hard, but it bore fruit. 131 00:08:25,320 --> 00:08:29,400 Speaker 1: Two baskets meant weeks of food. She carried them to 132 00:08:29,480 --> 00:08:34,000 Speaker 1: the silos, where the young reaper she once dreaded now greeted. 133 00:08:33,640 --> 00:08:35,000 Speaker 2: Her with respect. 134 00:08:35,400 --> 00:08:38,520 Speaker 1: Ruth handed him the baskets and walked toward the fire pit. 135 00:08:39,080 --> 00:08:43,320 Speaker 1: Drawn by the sound of Boaz's laughter. Bau As stood 136 00:08:43,360 --> 00:08:47,080 Speaker 1: by the fire, ladling broth into bowls and tearing pieces 137 00:08:47,080 --> 00:08:51,040 Speaker 1: of bread. Ruth joined him. She picked up the ladle 138 00:08:51,280 --> 00:08:55,360 Speaker 1: and began serving alongside him, their movements falling into an 139 00:08:55,400 --> 00:09:01,079 Speaker 1: easy rhythm. When their eyes met, they exchanged smile, silent 140 00:09:01,360 --> 00:09:03,400 Speaker 1: yet forum of possibility. 141 00:09:04,200 --> 00:09:05,280 Speaker 4: How did you fare today? 142 00:09:06,040 --> 00:09:06,880 Speaker 2: Two baskets? 143 00:09:07,760 --> 00:09:10,319 Speaker 3: I found some roots at the edge of the field, 144 00:09:10,520 --> 00:09:12,800 Speaker 3: enough to last Naomi and me a few weeks. 145 00:09:13,400 --> 00:09:16,800 Speaker 1: As she spoke, Ruth noticed the women hanging garlands of 146 00:09:16,880 --> 00:09:19,760 Speaker 1: fig leaves and flowers near the barn, and silence. 147 00:09:20,360 --> 00:09:21,080 Speaker 3: What are they doing? 148 00:09:22,000 --> 00:09:26,280 Speaker 4: Nah, They're preparing for the harvest festival. It's times to 149 00:09:26,440 --> 00:09:28,440 Speaker 4: celebrate the Lord's generosity. 150 00:09:29,520 --> 00:09:33,320 Speaker 1: Ruth listened intently as Boaz quoted the Law of Moses, 151 00:09:33,760 --> 00:09:35,400 Speaker 1: his voice rich with devotion. 152 00:09:36,000 --> 00:09:40,120 Speaker 4: The Law of Moses says this, celebrate the harvest vestimon, 153 00:09:40,280 --> 00:09:44,400 Speaker 4: to honor the Lord, your God, bringing an offering out 154 00:09:44,400 --> 00:09:49,120 Speaker 4: of the joy in your word. Celebrate with your children, servants, 155 00:09:49,160 --> 00:09:52,959 Speaker 4: and the priests. And do not forget the foreigners, the orphans, 156 00:09:53,240 --> 00:09:56,520 Speaker 4: and the widows in your list. Remember that you were 157 00:09:56,559 --> 00:10:01,120 Speaker 4: once slaves in Egypt and captives. And remember the generosity 158 00:10:01,120 --> 00:10:05,000 Speaker 4: of your God. 159 00:10:02,320 --> 00:10:05,480 Speaker 2: The foreigners in the widows. 160 00:10:05,960 --> 00:10:09,920 Speaker 4: My mother was a foreman like you. Did you know that? 161 00:10:10,600 --> 00:10:11,000 Speaker 2: Really? 162 00:10:12,160 --> 00:10:12,400 Speaker 7: Yes? 163 00:10:13,559 --> 00:10:18,200 Speaker 4: Her name was Rayham. She hailed from Jericho, but before 164 00:10:18,240 --> 00:10:23,600 Speaker 4: it came crumbling down. She was an old woman, brave, 165 00:10:24,720 --> 00:10:29,000 Speaker 4: much like yourself. Even though she was a foreigner and 166 00:10:29,200 --> 00:10:34,160 Speaker 4: a harlot. She was grafted in to these people. Our 167 00:10:34,240 --> 00:10:38,200 Speaker 4: God is a god of second chances. He's a god 168 00:10:38,240 --> 00:10:40,440 Speaker 4: of or redemption. 169 00:10:42,040 --> 00:10:46,400 Speaker 1: Ruth's admiration for Boaz deepened. She had lived long enough 170 00:10:46,440 --> 00:10:49,800 Speaker 1: in Israel to see how far many had strayed from 171 00:10:49,840 --> 00:10:54,520 Speaker 1: their God, but Boaz was different. His devotion to the 172 00:10:54,559 --> 00:10:57,760 Speaker 1: Lord was evident, not just in his words, but in 173 00:10:57,800 --> 00:11:02,120 Speaker 1: his actions, and Ruth found herself captivated by this man 174 00:11:02,280 --> 00:11:07,040 Speaker 1: who lived with such integrity. Ruth's gratitude for Boaz grew 175 00:11:07,080 --> 00:11:10,880 Speaker 1: into something more profound, though she dared not name it yet. 176 00:11:11,679 --> 00:11:14,120 Speaker 1: What she did know was that she felt a spark 177 00:11:14,160 --> 00:11:18,680 Speaker 1: of hope, hope that redemption may not be a distant dream, 178 00:11:19,280 --> 00:11:26,640 Speaker 1: but a near reality. When Ruth finally stepped inside their home, 179 00:11:27,080 --> 00:11:29,760 Speaker 1: the warmth of the fire wrapped around her like a 180 00:11:29,800 --> 00:11:33,760 Speaker 1: long awaited embrace. She dropped her head covering and crouched 181 00:11:33,760 --> 00:11:37,360 Speaker 1: by the flames, rubbing her hands together until the cold 182 00:11:37,360 --> 00:11:41,880 Speaker 1: in her bones faded. The home had changed since their arrival, 183 00:11:42,280 --> 00:11:46,880 Speaker 1: cozier now less barren. The woven blankets and clay pots 184 00:11:47,120 --> 00:11:51,640 Speaker 1: were humble accomplishments. Yet despite the small comforts, the looming 185 00:11:51,679 --> 00:11:56,680 Speaker 1: reality of their poverty remained. They had worked tirelessly, but 186 00:11:56,760 --> 00:11:59,480 Speaker 1: there were limits to what two widows could achieve on 187 00:11:59,559 --> 00:12:04,240 Speaker 1: their own. Naomi sat beside Ruth, shipping slowly from a 188 00:12:04,280 --> 00:12:08,840 Speaker 1: bowl of roasted barley broth. The silence stretched between them, 189 00:12:08,880 --> 00:12:12,800 Speaker 1: heavy and pensive. Finally, Ruth broke it. 190 00:12:13,559 --> 00:12:15,400 Speaker 7: The harvest season is almost over. 191 00:12:16,840 --> 00:12:17,880 Speaker 2: What are we going to do? 192 00:12:18,880 --> 00:12:22,280 Speaker 1: Naomi's eyes glistened as she took Ruth's hands in her own. 193 00:12:22,679 --> 00:12:28,000 Speaker 2: Oh my dear, you've done so much for me. You've 194 00:12:28,559 --> 00:12:32,400 Speaker 2: labored under the sun, fought through pain, and provided when 195 00:12:32,440 --> 00:12:35,920 Speaker 2: I had nothing to give. But my child, you deserve 196 00:12:36,040 --> 00:12:40,920 Speaker 2: more than this. You deserve peace, you deserve rest, and 197 00:12:41,080 --> 00:12:43,200 Speaker 2: you deserve a life felt with purpose. 198 00:12:43,840 --> 00:12:48,480 Speaker 1: Ruth glanced down. I'm sure how to respond, Naomi continued 199 00:12:48,840 --> 00:12:51,160 Speaker 1: her words, gentle but resolute. 200 00:12:51,720 --> 00:12:54,600 Speaker 2: I believe it's time for you to ask Boaz to 201 00:12:54,720 --> 00:12:57,280 Speaker 2: redeem you and to buy the land of my father. 202 00:12:57,920 --> 00:13:01,800 Speaker 1: Ruth's head snapped up, her mouth opened, but no words 203 00:13:01,880 --> 00:13:06,160 Speaker 1: came out. Naomi chuckled softly, brushing a loose strand of 204 00:13:06,200 --> 00:13:07,440 Speaker 1: hair from Ruth's face. 205 00:13:07,840 --> 00:13:12,480 Speaker 2: Oh my dear, Ruth, you are beautiful, strong and loyal. 206 00:13:13,080 --> 00:13:16,080 Speaker 2: I've seen how Boaz looks at you. I've seen the 207 00:13:16,120 --> 00:13:19,120 Speaker 2: way his eyes soften when you speak, the way he 208 00:13:19,200 --> 00:13:24,040 Speaker 2: watches your every move. He is a good man, and 209 00:13:24,080 --> 00:13:26,640 Speaker 2: you must trust both his heart and the law of 210 00:13:26,720 --> 00:13:27,840 Speaker 2: the Lord to cover you. 211 00:13:28,679 --> 00:13:33,280 Speaker 1: Naomi, who once called herself Mara, bitter and broken, now 212 00:13:33,360 --> 00:13:36,760 Speaker 1: spoke with faith. She had begun to see God's hand 213 00:13:36,840 --> 00:13:42,120 Speaker 1: at work, weaving something remarkable through Ruth. Her confidence felt 214 00:13:42,160 --> 00:13:45,800 Speaker 1: like a torch in the darkness, but Ruth's fears remained. 215 00:13:47,320 --> 00:13:52,280 Speaker 3: How how do I even ask him for something like this? 216 00:13:53,679 --> 00:13:57,800 Speaker 3: I'm asking him to change his life for me, and 217 00:13:57,920 --> 00:14:01,520 Speaker 3: even more horrific, What if he says yes out of compulsion. 218 00:14:02,720 --> 00:14:03,800 Speaker 7: He's a man of the law. 219 00:14:04,400 --> 00:14:07,240 Speaker 3: But I don't want him marrying me just because it's 220 00:14:07,240 --> 00:14:08,240 Speaker 3: his duty. 221 00:14:09,120 --> 00:14:09,559 Speaker 2: And I. 222 00:14:11,080 --> 00:14:13,960 Speaker 1: Ruth's hands began to shake as she thought of Beau. 223 00:14:14,040 --> 00:14:18,280 Speaker 1: As she had grown fond of him, Yes, perhaps even 224 00:14:18,320 --> 00:14:21,800 Speaker 1: loved him, But the thought of exposing her heart left 225 00:14:21,800 --> 00:14:27,120 Speaker 1: her vulnerable. Would he accept her or would he turn away? 226 00:14:28,280 --> 00:14:31,920 Speaker 1: Naomi slid closer and wrapped Ruth in her arms in 227 00:14:31,960 --> 00:14:33,560 Speaker 1: a way only a mother could. 228 00:14:34,200 --> 00:14:37,880 Speaker 2: You are no ordinary woman, Ruth. You are a gift. 229 00:14:38,640 --> 00:14:44,240 Speaker 2: Your strength, your loyalty, your kindness. It's something bou has sees. 230 00:14:45,360 --> 00:14:49,200 Speaker 2: This is not just his duty. I believe it would 231 00:14:49,200 --> 00:14:50,200 Speaker 2: be his joy. 232 00:14:51,280 --> 00:14:55,520 Speaker 1: Ruth exhaled her breath, shuddering as she let Naomi's words 233 00:14:55,560 --> 00:14:59,840 Speaker 1: sink in. Naomi pulled back, holding Ruth's face in her 234 00:14:59,880 --> 00:15:00,480 Speaker 1: he hands. 235 00:15:01,320 --> 00:15:04,880 Speaker 2: It must be tonight, the magic of the harvest celebration 236 00:15:05,000 --> 00:15:08,640 Speaker 2: will be the perfect time. Clean yourself up, annoint yourself 237 00:15:08,680 --> 00:15:12,200 Speaker 2: with fragrant oil, and go to him. But listen carefully. 238 00:15:12,640 --> 00:15:15,400 Speaker 2: Do not make yourself known until the time is right. 239 00:15:16,200 --> 00:15:19,360 Speaker 2: Let him eat, let him drink, let him celebrate with 240 00:15:19,440 --> 00:15:23,000 Speaker 2: his workers. Wait until the revelry has faded and he 241 00:15:23,120 --> 00:15:27,400 Speaker 2: lies down to rest. Then go to him. Uncover his 242 00:15:27,440 --> 00:15:31,240 Speaker 2: feet and remain there. Let him wake to find you 243 00:15:31,320 --> 00:15:35,680 Speaker 2: at his feet. Speak your heart, recite the law of Moses, 244 00:15:36,160 --> 00:15:37,800 Speaker 2: and let the Lord guide the rest. 245 00:15:38,760 --> 00:15:42,520 Speaker 1: Ruth pondered for a long while. She knew this was right, 246 00:15:43,200 --> 00:15:46,720 Speaker 1: not just because she loved Bohas, but because it's what 247 00:15:46,880 --> 00:15:48,400 Speaker 1: Naomi needed to survive. 248 00:15:49,200 --> 00:15:52,400 Speaker 5: No, not just survive, thrive. 249 00:15:53,520 --> 00:15:56,760 Speaker 1: This is what they needed to be redeemed, to have 250 00:15:56,840 --> 00:15:59,400 Speaker 1: some semblance of dignity and legacy. 251 00:15:59,480 --> 00:16:00,440 Speaker 5: Restore to them. 252 00:16:01,080 --> 00:16:03,760 Speaker 7: I will do everything you've asked, Naomi. 253 00:16:05,000 --> 00:16:07,680 Speaker 1: For this task, Ruth would need a courage of a 254 00:16:07,680 --> 00:16:11,680 Speaker 1: different kind, not the kind to face toil or hardship, 255 00:16:12,160 --> 00:16:16,720 Speaker 1: but the bravery to lay her heart bare. Vulnerability was 256 00:16:16,760 --> 00:16:20,640 Speaker 1: its own battlefield, and tonight she would march into it. 257 00:16:21,480 --> 00:16:24,440 Speaker 1: What Ruth didn't yet know was that her simple act 258 00:16:24,480 --> 00:16:28,280 Speaker 1: of faith and devotion would ripple far beyond her imagination. 259 00:16:29,360 --> 00:16:32,960 Speaker 1: God was at work weaving a story of redemption that 260 00:16:33,000 --> 00:16:38,400 Speaker 1: would stretch across generations. Ruth's steps were small, but they 261 00:16:38,400 --> 00:16:43,360 Speaker 1: were leading to something extraordinary, the redemption not just of 262 00:16:43,400 --> 00:16:50,480 Speaker 1: one woman, but of the world itself. The threshing floor 263 00:16:50,640 --> 00:16:54,680 Speaker 1: glowed under the soft flicker of dozens of torches, their 264 00:16:54,720 --> 00:16:58,160 Speaker 1: flames dancing in rhythm with the laughter and music that 265 00:16:58,240 --> 00:17:02,440 Speaker 1: filled the air. The scent of freshly cut barley mingled 266 00:17:02,440 --> 00:17:05,919 Speaker 1: with the aroma of roasted meats and sweet wine. It 267 00:17:06,040 --> 00:17:10,600 Speaker 1: all wrapped around Ruth like a warm embrace. Flowers adorned 268 00:17:10,600 --> 00:17:14,399 Speaker 1: the silos in barns. Lanterns laced the edges of the 269 00:17:14,520 --> 00:17:18,040 Speaker 1: dancing circle. Ruth stood at the edge of the celebration. 270 00:17:18,720 --> 00:17:23,240 Speaker 1: The sight before her was almost serreal. The music swelled, 271 00:17:23,600 --> 00:17:27,159 Speaker 1: the lilting notes of lyres and tambourines weaving through the 272 00:17:27,240 --> 00:17:31,879 Speaker 1: claps of hands and stomping feet. Children darted between the adults, 273 00:17:32,080 --> 00:17:36,960 Speaker 1: their laughter carrying over the melody. Ruth smiled softly, her 274 00:17:37,000 --> 00:17:41,040 Speaker 1: hard catching as she watched the family's celebrate. A little 275 00:17:41,080 --> 00:17:44,800 Speaker 1: girl with braided hair tugged at her hand, asking Ruth 276 00:17:44,880 --> 00:17:49,160 Speaker 1: to dance. Ruth hesitated, but let herself be led into 277 00:17:49,160 --> 00:17:52,679 Speaker 1: the circle of dancers, her feet moving tentatively at first, 278 00:17:53,080 --> 00:17:57,720 Speaker 1: then with growing confidence. Laughter bubbled from her lips. As 279 00:17:57,760 --> 00:18:01,800 Speaker 1: the rhythm of the music took all around her, Couples 280 00:18:01,880 --> 00:18:06,399 Speaker 1: swayed together, children twirled in delight, and elders clapped along 281 00:18:06,480 --> 00:18:09,399 Speaker 1: with the beat. For a moment, Rufe let go of 282 00:18:09,440 --> 00:18:12,720 Speaker 1: her worries, losing herself in the joy of the evening. 283 00:18:13,560 --> 00:18:17,080 Speaker 1: The music eventually softened, giving way to the murmur of 284 00:18:17,160 --> 00:18:21,400 Speaker 1: voices and the clatter of dishes. A feast had been prepared, 285 00:18:21,720 --> 00:18:25,520 Speaker 1: and the guests gathered around long tables. At the head, 286 00:18:25,800 --> 00:18:29,439 Speaker 1: Boaz stood, raising his cup high above the crowd. 287 00:18:30,200 --> 00:18:33,480 Speaker 4: Blessed be the Lord who has brought us through the harvest. 288 00:18:34,000 --> 00:18:36,760 Speaker 4: He has given us more than we could ever ask, 289 00:18:37,240 --> 00:18:39,720 Speaker 4: and it is right that we honor him to night. 290 00:18:41,040 --> 00:18:44,720 Speaker 1: The crowd erupted in cheers, raising their cups in unison 291 00:18:44,840 --> 00:18:48,800 Speaker 1: before settling into the meal. Rufe, sitting at a small 292 00:18:48,880 --> 00:18:53,000 Speaker 1: table near the edge of the festivities, watched quietly. She 293 00:18:53,119 --> 00:18:56,200 Speaker 1: sipped her cup and let her gaze wander to the morning. 294 00:18:56,760 --> 00:19:01,280 Speaker 1: Its silvery light pouring down like liquid grape yes. Memories 295 00:19:01,320 --> 00:19:04,960 Speaker 1: of Molin flickered in her mind. She wondered what he 296 00:19:05,000 --> 00:19:07,320 Speaker 1: would say if he could see her now. Would he 297 00:19:07,440 --> 00:19:12,320 Speaker 1: bless her decision to pursue boas would he understand her heart? 298 00:19:12,680 --> 00:19:16,760 Speaker 1: Her thoughts were interrupted by Boas. His smile was warm, 299 00:19:17,280 --> 00:19:18,640 Speaker 1: his presence grounding. 300 00:19:19,680 --> 00:19:24,440 Speaker 7: Shaloon, Ruth, shalloon baas the Lord bless you. 301 00:19:27,560 --> 00:19:28,399 Speaker 2: Isn't this Simon? 302 00:19:29,760 --> 00:19:33,679 Speaker 4: This is little Nelly's life, most satisfied seeing the people 303 00:19:33,840 --> 00:19:41,280 Speaker 4: under care. It's a glimpse of God's girls. Ah, these 304 00:19:41,280 --> 00:19:42,640 Speaker 4: are my favorite moments. 305 00:19:44,400 --> 00:19:45,320 Speaker 2: You've bled them well. 306 00:19:46,240 --> 00:19:49,359 Speaker 3: They're blessed, happy, so am i. 307 00:19:50,400 --> 00:19:54,959 Speaker 1: Boaz is grim widened and Ruth flushed, suddenly flustered by 308 00:19:55,000 --> 00:19:55,520 Speaker 1: the weight of. 309 00:19:55,440 --> 00:19:56,320 Speaker 4: Her own words. 310 00:19:56,720 --> 00:19:59,320 Speaker 8: I mean, Naomi and I are well. 311 00:20:00,000 --> 00:20:01,240 Speaker 7: We're both blessed to have you. 312 00:20:01,840 --> 00:20:05,080 Speaker 8: Will not have you. We don't own you for anything. 313 00:20:07,920 --> 00:20:11,800 Speaker 8: We would have starved without your generosity. The Lord has 314 00:20:11,960 --> 00:20:13,600 Speaker 8: truly blessed your harvest. 315 00:20:15,520 --> 00:20:18,199 Speaker 4: We may cloud the fields and sell the seeds, but 316 00:20:19,040 --> 00:20:24,840 Speaker 4: it's the Lord who brings the hardest to him. Enjoy 317 00:20:24,920 --> 00:20:28,360 Speaker 4: the rest of the celebration, Ruth. Let me know if 318 00:20:28,359 --> 00:20:29,920 Speaker 4: there's anything you need. 319 00:20:30,840 --> 00:20:34,359 Speaker 1: He returned to the celebration, his laughter mingling with the 320 00:20:34,440 --> 00:20:37,840 Speaker 1: music as he handed out bread and danced with the children. 321 00:20:38,680 --> 00:20:41,200 Speaker 1: Ruth sunk in her seat and grow. 322 00:20:43,320 --> 00:20:44,040 Speaker 2: Am I doing? 323 00:20:44,880 --> 00:20:46,000 Speaker 7: Compose yourself? 324 00:20:46,119 --> 00:20:46,439 Speaker 2: Ruth? 325 00:20:47,720 --> 00:20:51,280 Speaker 1: Ruth remained at her table, her eyes following Boaz as 326 00:20:51,280 --> 00:20:54,560 Speaker 1: he moved among the people. As she watched him, she 327 00:20:54,640 --> 00:20:58,240 Speaker 1: allowed herself to feel the weight of her discoliers. She 328 00:20:58,400 --> 00:21:02,640 Speaker 1: did love him, knew this now, but the question remained 329 00:21:03,119 --> 00:21:09,800 Speaker 1: did he love her? As the night wore on, the 330 00:21:09,880 --> 00:21:14,119 Speaker 1: festivities began to wane, the torches burned low, and the 331 00:21:14,200 --> 00:21:19,400 Speaker 1: guests slowly retreated to their beds. Boaz walked among his servants, 332 00:21:19,680 --> 00:21:23,160 Speaker 1: placing extra blankets over them and tending to the fires. 333 00:21:24,119 --> 00:21:27,479 Speaker 1: Once everyone was settled, he found a spot near the silo, 334 00:21:27,840 --> 00:21:31,159 Speaker 1: spread out a blanket, and reclined on a pile of cushions. 335 00:21:31,840 --> 00:21:35,960 Speaker 1: Within moments, his breathing slowed and he drifted into a 336 00:21:36,000 --> 00:21:40,680 Speaker 1: peaceful sleep. Ruth watched from a distance. She felt her 337 00:21:40,720 --> 00:21:44,480 Speaker 1: heart racing. She closed her eyes, summoning. 338 00:21:44,080 --> 00:21:46,439 Speaker 4: Her courage, you can do this. 339 00:21:48,080 --> 00:21:52,320 Speaker 1: She approached Boaz, who was fast asleep, face dimly lit 340 00:21:52,400 --> 00:21:55,960 Speaker 1: by the firelight. She looked at him for a long while, 341 00:21:56,480 --> 00:21:59,800 Speaker 1: seeing flashes of a possible future with him. In her mind. 342 00:22:00,680 --> 00:22:04,240 Speaker 1: She saw children playing in the amber fields. She saw 343 00:22:04,320 --> 00:22:07,800 Speaker 1: her standing side by side with Boaz in the fields. 344 00:22:08,359 --> 00:22:13,040 Speaker 1: She saw Naomi safe. There was laughter and love, but 345 00:22:13,119 --> 00:22:16,399 Speaker 1: there was more to it all. In that moment, Ruth 346 00:22:16,440 --> 00:22:20,320 Speaker 1: felt a stirring, an inkling that her and Boaz were 347 00:22:20,359 --> 00:22:24,440 Speaker 1: a part of something greater than themselves. Ruth knelt at 348 00:22:24,440 --> 00:22:28,320 Speaker 1: Boaz's feet. She gently folded the end of his blanket 349 00:22:28,480 --> 00:22:32,840 Speaker 1: over his ankles, exposing his feet. The cool air brushed 350 00:22:32,880 --> 00:22:36,280 Speaker 1: against him. He stirred underneath the blanket for a while 351 00:22:36,359 --> 00:22:40,880 Speaker 1: before waking up. Boaz sat up and looked around. As 352 00:22:40,880 --> 00:22:43,480 Speaker 1: he was looking for the blanket, he saw a woman. 353 00:22:44,160 --> 00:22:45,600 Speaker 1: He jolted back for a moment. 354 00:22:45,840 --> 00:22:46,320 Speaker 4: Who are you? 355 00:22:47,040 --> 00:22:51,720 Speaker 1: Ruth sat up and leaned forward. The faint torchlight, intermixed 356 00:22:51,760 --> 00:22:54,919 Speaker 1: with the moon's silvery beams, shone over her face. 357 00:22:55,200 --> 00:22:56,640 Speaker 4: What are you doing here, Ruth? 358 00:22:57,760 --> 00:23:01,679 Speaker 1: Ruth didn't panic like she thought she would. Boaz had 359 00:23:01,720 --> 00:23:05,960 Speaker 1: a reassuring presence when she was with him. She felt 360 00:23:05,960 --> 00:23:09,240 Speaker 1: secure and able to speak her mind, as if the 361 00:23:09,280 --> 00:23:12,879 Speaker 1: hand of God was penning her words. Ruth spoke with 362 00:23:13,040 --> 00:23:14,320 Speaker 1: brilliant eloquence. 363 00:23:15,160 --> 00:23:20,920 Speaker 7: You are a kinsman, redeemer. Boaz, your wings are able 364 00:23:20,960 --> 00:23:25,959 Speaker 7: to uplift and raise up the broken and forgotten. Please 365 00:23:27,000 --> 00:23:29,679 Speaker 7: spread your wings over me as a redeemer. 366 00:23:30,320 --> 00:23:33,600 Speaker 1: Ruth spoke with faith in her voice and purpose in 367 00:23:33,680 --> 00:23:37,760 Speaker 1: her heart. She knew that, regardless of Boaz's answer, the 368 00:23:37,880 --> 00:23:41,840 Speaker 1: Lord would take care of her. Boaz remained silent for 369 00:23:41,920 --> 00:23:46,040 Speaker 1: a long drawn out moment. He allowed himself to finally 370 00:23:46,080 --> 00:23:50,480 Speaker 1: look at Ruth with intention. Her radiant eyes reflected the 371 00:23:50,520 --> 00:23:54,159 Speaker 1: flickering torches as she gazed up at him. She was 372 00:23:54,200 --> 00:23:58,640 Speaker 1: a vision of pure beauty. In that one moment, Boaz's 373 00:23:58,640 --> 00:24:02,679 Speaker 1: breath was completely taken from him. Baas had come to 374 00:24:02,720 --> 00:24:07,800 Speaker 1: admire many things about Ruth, her loveliness, her strength, her loyalty, 375 00:24:08,480 --> 00:24:13,040 Speaker 1: but nothing could come close to that enchanting gaze. He 376 00:24:13,160 --> 00:24:15,960 Speaker 1: leaned in a little closer and took her hand. 377 00:24:16,680 --> 00:24:21,640 Speaker 9: Ruth, you are beautiful and young, Yet you did. 378 00:24:21,440 --> 00:24:23,440 Speaker 4: Not go up to the young men of our religion. 379 00:24:24,080 --> 00:24:28,440 Speaker 9: You didn't seek after that, a fit of which remained 380 00:24:28,440 --> 00:24:34,240 Speaker 9: at my side. You are as faithful as you are beautiful. 381 00:24:36,400 --> 00:24:40,800 Speaker 9: May the Lord bless you abundantly, regardless of my action 382 00:24:41,119 --> 00:24:41,840 Speaker 9: or inaction. 383 00:24:42,960 --> 00:24:47,280 Speaker 1: Ruth smiled and blushed. Baas laughed and placed his hand 384 00:24:47,320 --> 00:24:47,960 Speaker 1: on her cheek. 385 00:24:49,440 --> 00:24:52,080 Speaker 4: There is no doubt in my mind that you are 386 00:24:52,160 --> 00:24:57,440 Speaker 4: a woman of strength and character and integrity. Since you've 387 00:24:57,520 --> 00:25:01,480 Speaker 4: arrived in Bethlehem, I've only heard reports of your worthiness, 388 00:25:01,880 --> 00:25:03,720 Speaker 4: and I have seen it with my own eyes. 389 00:25:04,640 --> 00:25:08,920 Speaker 1: He looked at Ruth with tears welling up in his eyes. Boas, 390 00:25:08,960 --> 00:25:12,639 Speaker 1: his strong demeanor was cracking and the vulnerability of a 391 00:25:12,760 --> 00:25:16,919 Speaker 1: tender heart was showing itself. He held her face with 392 00:25:17,040 --> 00:25:21,320 Speaker 1: both hands, leaning in closer with an earnest gaze. Then, 393 00:25:21,840 --> 00:25:25,120 Speaker 1: in a warm whisper only she and the Lord could hear, 394 00:25:25,800 --> 00:25:27,040 Speaker 1: he answered. 395 00:25:26,800 --> 00:25:31,879 Speaker 4: Her heart's question, I am a redeemer and I will 396 00:25:31,960 --> 00:25:32,399 Speaker 4: marry you. 397 00:25:37,680 --> 00:25:41,679 Speaker 6: Okay? Can we just stop and acknowledge how wild that was? 398 00:25:42,480 --> 00:25:47,359 Speaker 6: Have you ever gotten secondhand embarrassment? You know that thing 399 00:25:47,560 --> 00:25:51,320 Speaker 6: where someone else is doing something embarrassing and you're crunching 400 00:25:51,359 --> 00:25:55,760 Speaker 6: on their behalf. I was squealing while listening to this episode, 401 00:25:56,119 --> 00:26:02,360 Speaker 6: imagining myself in Ruth's position. How vulnerable and potentially humiliating 402 00:26:02,560 --> 00:26:03,560 Speaker 6: this must have been. 403 00:26:04,240 --> 00:26:04,480 Speaker 2: Ruth. 404 00:26:04,640 --> 00:26:09,119 Speaker 6: Chapter three is next level faith in action. So here's 405 00:26:09,119 --> 00:26:13,280 Speaker 6: the setup. Naomi, Ruth's mother in law, comes. 406 00:26:13,080 --> 00:26:13,840 Speaker 2: Up with a plan. 407 00:26:14,520 --> 00:26:18,480 Speaker 6: She's been paying attention and sees how Boaz looks out 408 00:26:18,480 --> 00:26:22,719 Speaker 6: for Ruth. Naomi's like, girl, it's time to make a 409 00:26:22,760 --> 00:26:25,639 Speaker 6: move on this man. Okay, maybe she didn't say it 410 00:26:25,680 --> 00:26:29,679 Speaker 6: exactly like that, but you get the idea. Naomi tells 411 00:26:29,760 --> 00:26:33,200 Speaker 6: Ruth to wash up, put on some perfume, and head 412 00:26:33,240 --> 00:26:36,879 Speaker 6: down to the threshing floor where Boaz is working. Ruth's 413 00:26:36,880 --> 00:26:40,479 Speaker 6: supposed to wait until he's eaten and had something to drink, 414 00:26:40,680 --> 00:26:45,399 Speaker 6: because y'all know timing is everything. Then she's supposed to 415 00:26:45,520 --> 00:26:49,760 Speaker 6: uncover his feet and lie down. This act might sound 416 00:26:49,840 --> 00:26:54,280 Speaker 6: strange and maybe a bit creepy to us, but back 417 00:26:54,320 --> 00:26:58,360 Speaker 6: then it was a way of asking for protection, provision, 418 00:26:58,840 --> 00:27:03,360 Speaker 6: and marriage. Now this wasn't a totally crazy idea. Bo 419 00:27:03,520 --> 00:27:07,640 Speaker 6: As was a kinsman redeemer, a role established in Old 420 00:27:07,680 --> 00:27:12,040 Speaker 6: Testament law. A kinsman redeemer was responsible for many things. 421 00:27:12,600 --> 00:27:15,119 Speaker 6: It was his role to buy back property that had 422 00:27:15,160 --> 00:27:16,080 Speaker 6: been lost by. 423 00:27:15,920 --> 00:27:16,840 Speaker 2: A family member. 424 00:27:17,440 --> 00:27:21,359 Speaker 6: His role was to defend the family's honor against those 425 00:27:21,400 --> 00:27:26,840 Speaker 6: who wrong them. A kinsman redeemer's optional responsibility was to 426 00:27:26,920 --> 00:27:30,320 Speaker 6: marry the widow of a family member and restore their 427 00:27:30,400 --> 00:27:36,280 Speaker 6: assets so their legacy could continue. And even though Boas 428 00:27:36,640 --> 00:27:40,800 Speaker 6: was a kinsman redeemer, it didn't guarantee that he would 429 00:27:40,880 --> 00:27:46,520 Speaker 6: honor Ruth's proposal. Now let's pause right here. Imagine the 430 00:27:46,640 --> 00:27:49,960 Speaker 6: courage it took for Ruth to do this. She's putting 431 00:27:49,960 --> 00:27:53,520 Speaker 6: herself out there in a big way. There's no guarantee 432 00:27:53,520 --> 00:27:56,760 Speaker 6: bo Az will react the way she's hoping. He could 433 00:27:56,760 --> 00:28:01,480 Speaker 6: have rejected her, but Ruth steps out and faith, trusting 434 00:28:01,680 --> 00:28:05,840 Speaker 6: Naomi's wisdom in God's plan. I've had moments where I've 435 00:28:05,840 --> 00:28:09,240 Speaker 6: had to do something uncomfortable, unsure of how it would 436 00:28:09,240 --> 00:28:13,919 Speaker 6: turn out. When my parents' situation changed, everything in my 437 00:28:14,000 --> 00:28:17,199 Speaker 6: life shifted. Not only did I have custody in my 438 00:28:17,280 --> 00:28:21,240 Speaker 6: brother and sister, but I also felt a stirring to 439 00:28:21,400 --> 00:28:25,639 Speaker 6: speak up about criminal justice reform. There was no instruction 440 00:28:25,840 --> 00:28:29,280 Speaker 6: manual for these shifts, but I had to trust that 441 00:28:29,359 --> 00:28:34,200 Speaker 6: God had equipped me for everything. And maybe you've been 442 00:28:34,240 --> 00:28:38,640 Speaker 6: there too, stepping into something new, not knowing if you're 443 00:28:38,680 --> 00:28:42,720 Speaker 6: ready for it, but trusting that God's already gone before you. 444 00:28:43,960 --> 00:28:47,480 Speaker 6: Ruth goes to the threshing floor and uncovers bo as 445 00:28:47,480 --> 00:28:51,080 Speaker 6: his feet and lies down. And when Boas wakes up, 446 00:28:51,400 --> 00:28:53,960 Speaker 6: he startled to see a woman lying at his feet. 447 00:28:54,520 --> 00:28:58,120 Speaker 6: She tells him, spread the corner of your garment over me, 448 00:28:58,560 --> 00:29:03,760 Speaker 6: for you're a kinsman rede. Basically, what she's saying is, 449 00:29:04,240 --> 00:29:07,680 Speaker 6: I'm asking you to be my protector and provider. Will 450 00:29:07,720 --> 00:29:12,600 Speaker 6: you marry me? And y'all? Boas' response is so beautiful. 451 00:29:13,200 --> 00:29:18,080 Speaker 6: He's not angry, he's not offended, he's honored. He calls 452 00:29:18,160 --> 00:29:23,080 Speaker 6: Ruth a woman of noble character. Boas says he will 453 00:29:23,080 --> 00:29:26,840 Speaker 6: do everything he can to make it happen. He's ready 454 00:29:26,840 --> 00:29:30,320 Speaker 6: to step up for her, but there's one potential snag, 455 00:29:31,200 --> 00:29:35,640 Speaker 6: another man who's a closer relative and technically has first 456 00:29:35,720 --> 00:29:40,240 Speaker 6: rights to redeem Ruth. But Boas doesn't just shrug his 457 00:29:40,320 --> 00:29:44,240 Speaker 6: shoulders and give up. He promises Ruth that he'll handle it. 458 00:29:44,760 --> 00:29:48,760 Speaker 6: He's not afraid of the challenge. He's not running from responsibility. 459 00:29:49,160 --> 00:29:56,080 Speaker 6: He's stepping up. Boas points us to the ultimate kinsman redeemer, Jesus, 460 00:29:56,800 --> 00:29:59,920 Speaker 6: the one who will never leave us or forsake us. 461 00:30:00,760 --> 00:30:05,000 Speaker 6: This whole chapter makes me think about the power of 462 00:30:05,160 --> 00:30:10,680 Speaker 6: taking risks with faith. Sometimes God's plan for your life 463 00:30:10,840 --> 00:30:15,800 Speaker 6: requires you to step out and do something uncomfortable. Ruth's 464 00:30:15,840 --> 00:30:20,080 Speaker 6: story reminds us that God's favor often waits on the 465 00:30:20,120 --> 00:30:24,640 Speaker 6: other side of our obedience. She didn't just hope for 466 00:30:24,720 --> 00:30:29,560 Speaker 6: the best. She listened to wise counsel, acted in faith, 467 00:30:30,040 --> 00:30:34,840 Speaker 6: and trusted God with the outcome. Bold faith leads to 468 00:30:35,120 --> 00:30:39,560 Speaker 6: big blessings. There was another woman of faith who had 469 00:30:39,600 --> 00:30:42,520 Speaker 6: to take a huge risk. We introduced her in the 470 00:30:42,560 --> 00:30:46,640 Speaker 6: prelude of our story. Her name was Rahab. She had 471 00:30:46,680 --> 00:30:49,240 Speaker 6: to go against the grain of culture to do what 472 00:30:49,440 --> 00:30:53,640 Speaker 6: was right. It was risky, there were so many ways 473 00:30:53,680 --> 00:30:57,600 Speaker 6: it could have gone wrong, but her boldness was rewarded, 474 00:30:58,160 --> 00:31:02,040 Speaker 6: and as it turns out, is the mother of a gentleman. 475 00:31:02,400 --> 00:31:07,960 Speaker 6: We know well by now you guessed it, Boaz. I 476 00:31:08,040 --> 00:31:12,480 Speaker 6: don't know what bold move God's been asking you to make, 477 00:31:13,120 --> 00:31:17,080 Speaker 6: but maybe this is your moment. Maybe you're being called 478 00:31:17,160 --> 00:31:21,120 Speaker 6: to make a phone call, fill out that application, ask 479 00:31:21,200 --> 00:31:25,160 Speaker 6: for help, or step into a role you may not 480 00:31:25,200 --> 00:31:29,400 Speaker 6: feel ready for. Let me tell you you are ready. 481 00:31:29,680 --> 00:31:33,080 Speaker 6: If God's calling you to it, He's already equipped to 482 00:31:33,080 --> 00:31:35,760 Speaker 6: you for it. Your job is to show up like 483 00:31:35,920 --> 00:31:39,800 Speaker 6: Ruth and trust that God's working behind the scenes. So 484 00:31:39,960 --> 00:31:41,440 Speaker 6: here's my challenge. 485 00:31:41,000 --> 00:31:42,000 Speaker 2: For you this week. 486 00:31:42,760 --> 00:31:47,320 Speaker 6: Take the bold step, make the move, trust that if 487 00:31:47,360 --> 00:31:51,720 Speaker 6: you're walking in obedience to God, He's already setting up 488 00:31:51,880 --> 00:31:55,560 Speaker 6: the next part of your story. Next time, we're diving 489 00:31:55,600 --> 00:32:00,280 Speaker 6: in to Ruth chapter four, the grand Finale. If we're 490 00:32:00,320 --> 00:32:06,600 Speaker 6: talking redemption, restoration, and blessings so big you'll need a 491 00:32:06,600 --> 00:32:10,000 Speaker 6: bigger basket to hold it all. I can't wait for 492 00:32:10,120 --> 00:32:14,720 Speaker 6: y'all to hear how it all comes together. Thanks for 493 00:32:14,880 --> 00:32:18,800 Speaker 6: joining me, And if today's message spoke to you, share 494 00:32:18,800 --> 00:32:24,200 Speaker 6: it with a friend. Sometimes we all need that little 495 00:32:24,240 --> 00:32:28,960 Speaker 6: reminder just to make that bold move. If you want 496 00:32:29,000 --> 00:32:33,080 Speaker 6: more stories like this, download the prey dot com app 497 00:32:33,400 --> 00:32:37,760 Speaker 6: or look uppray dot com wherever you listen to podcasts. 498 00:32:38,440 --> 00:32:43,080 Speaker 6: Until next time, remember you're not just walking into the unknown, 499 00:32:43,600 --> 00:32:47,640 Speaker 6: You're walking into a story that God's already written for you.