In the book of Ruth, we find a story of redemption woven through ordinary moments, where God’s grace works quietly but powerfully to transform lives. Pastor Léveillé’s sermon on Ruth chapter 2, delivered on June 29, 2025, walks us through the journey from bitterness to blessing, focusing on the lives of Naomi and Ruth. This passage reveals how God’s providence operates even in our darkest seasons, offering hope, provision, and purpose. As we delve into Ruth 2, we see a vivid picture of Christ’s redeeming love, showing us that no matter our past mistakes or present struggles, God’s grace is always at work, ready to meet us when we step out in faith.
Hope Takes Root When We Step Forward in Faith (Ruth 2:1-3)
Ruth 2 begins not with human effort but with God’s provision already in place. The text introduces Boaz, a kinsman of Naomi’s husband, described as a mighty man of wealth from the family of Elimelech (Ruth 2:1, KJV). Before Naomi or Ruth could devise a plan to address their desperate situation, God had already prepared a redeemer. This underscores a profound truth: God’s grace precedes our need. As Ruth stepped out to glean in the fields, not knowing how she would be received as a foreign widow, her “hap was to light on a part of the field belonging unto Boaz” (Ruth 2:3, KJV). Her courage to act despite uncertainty reflects the faith God honors. Leviticus 19:9-10 (KJV) commanded landowners to leave portions of their fields for the poor, but Ruth’s decision to glean required trust in God’s provision. When we move forward in faith, even amid imperfect conditions, we find that God’s grace has already paved the way.
Grace Finds Us Before We Know We Need It (Ruth 2:4-13)
Boaz’s entrance in verse 4 reveals his godly character, as he greets his reapers with, “The Lord be with you,” and they respond, “The Lord bless thee” (Ruth 2:4, KJV). His compassion shines when he notices Ruth, a Moabitess, and inquires about her (Ruth 2:5). Despite her status as a stranger, Boaz calls her “my daughter,” offering protection and provision (Ruth 2:8-9). Ruth, expecting mere scraps, is overwhelmed by his kindness, asking, “Why have I found grace in thine eyes, that thou shouldest take knowledge of me, seeing I am a stranger?” (Ruth 2:10, KJV). Boaz’s response points to her faith and loyalty to Naomi, noting that she has come “under [the] wings” of the Lord God of Israel (Ruth 2:12, KJV). This imagery, echoed in Psalm 91:4 (KJV), portrays God’s tender care. Like Ruth, we often find God’s grace waiting for us before we recognize our need, offering more than we could imagine peace, strength, and salvation through Christ.
God’s Kindness Refreshes Weary Souls (Ruth 2:14-17)
Boaz’s kindness extends beyond protection. At mealtime, he invites Ruth to eat with the reapers, saying, “Come thou hither, and eat of the bread, and dip thy morsel in the vinegar” (Ruth 2:14, KJV). For a poor widow, this invitation to the table was an extraordinary act of grace. Ruth, likely feeling out of place, is given parched corn, eats until satisfied, and takes leftovers home. Boaz goes further, instructing his workers to “let fall also some of the handfuls of purpose for her” (Ruth 2:16, KJV), ensuring she gathers an abundance about twenty pounds of barley. This act mirrors God’s overflowing grace, which exceeds our needs. As Ephesians 2:8 (KJV) declares, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.” God’s kindness refreshes weary souls, providing not just sustenance but a renewed sense of hope and belonging.
Hope Rekindled is Meant to Be Shared (Ruth 2:18-23)
When Ruth returns to Naomi with her abundant harvest, Naomi’s bitterness begins to thaw. She exclaims, “Where hast thou gleaned today? and where wroughtest thou? blessed be he that did take knowledge of thee” (Ruth 2:19, KJV). Learning that Boaz is their kinsman redeemer, Naomi recognizes God’s faithfulness, saying, “Blessed be he of the Lord, who hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead” (Ruth 2:20, KJV). This moment marks a turning point, as God’s grace rekindles hope in Naomi’s heart. The story challenges us to share the hope we’ve received. Just as Ruth’s faith and Boaz’s kindness blessed Naomi, we are called to extend God’s grace to others. Whether through forgiving those who have wronged us or showing compassion to the hurting, our faith-filled actions can point others to Christ, thawing bitter hearts and spreading hope.
Conclusion
The story of Ruth 2 is a testament to God’s relentless grace, which works even in our most bitter moments. Through Ruth’s faith, Boaz’s kindness, and Naomi’s gradual restoration, we see that God is always ahead of us, preparing provision before we know we need it. His grace invites us to trust Him, step out in faith, and share the hope we’ve found. Whether you’re wrestling with bitterness, uncertainty, or past mistakes, Ruth 2 reminds us that God’s grace is sufficient. As you place your faith in Christ, you’ll find Him waiting with open arms, ready to transform your story from bitterness to blessing. Let us trust Him today and share His hope with those around us.
