The Verse
King James Version (KJV): “Then she said, Let me find favour in thy sight, my lord; for that thou hast comforted me, and for that thou hast spoken friendly unto thine handmaid, though I be not like unto one of thine handmaidens.”
New International Version (NIV): “May I continue to find favor in your eyes, my lord,” she said. “You have put me at ease by speaking kindly to your servant—though I do not have the standing of one of your servants.”
English Standard Version (ESV): “Then she said, “I have found favor in your eyes, my lord, for you have comforted me and spoken kindly to your servant, though I am not one of your servants.”
Introduction
What do you feel when someone unexpectedly shows you kindness? In Ruth 2:13, the Moabitess Ruth expresses her gratitude to Boaz, a man of Bethlehem, for his unexpected kindness. It’s a beautiful verse that reveals Ruth’s humility and recognizes Boaz’s compassion, showing how these virtues can foster deep connections and bring blessings in our lives.
As we delve into this verse, we will unpack its rich layers of meaning, historical context, and spiritual insights. Join us as we discover the profound message that Ruth 2:13 holds for us today.
Historical Context
Ruth 2:13 is part of the Book of Ruth, a beautiful narrative, filled with love, loyalty, and redemption. This book is believed to have been written by the prophet Samuel during the time of the Judges. In the setting of this verse, Ruth, a Moabitess widow, has chosen to stay with her mother-in-law, Naomi, after the death of her husband. They have returned to Bethlehem, where Ruth catches the attention of Boaz, a kinsman of Naomi’s deceased husband. Boaz treats Ruth with kindness and respect, despite her foreign origin and widow status.
Key Word Analysis
The words/phrases favor, comforted and spoken kindly stand out in this verse. ‘Favor’ in Hebrew is ‘chen,’ reflecting grace or unmerited favor. ‘Comforted,’ or ‘nacham,’ means to feel sorrow or compassion. ‘Spoken kindly’ is ‘dabar,’ to speak, but with kindness or goodness, exemplifying the gentleness of Boaz’s words to Ruth.
Spiritual Insight
This verse reveals God’s immeasurable kindness, reflected in Boaz’s treatment of Ruth. It reminds us that God’s favor is not restricted by social status, nationality, or circumstance. It’s a reflection of his grace, offered freely to all who seek him.
Life Application
As modern readers, we can learn from Ruth’s humility and Boaz’s kindness. We should be grateful for the kindness shown to us, acknowledging it as God’s favor. We also learn the importance of showing compassion and kindness to others, regardless of their status, reflecting God’s love in our actions.
What Jesus Might Say About This Verse
“My child, just as Ruth found favor in the eyes of Boaz, you have found favor in mine. Remember, my favor is not earned but given out of my love for you. Show kindness to others as you have received from me, for in this, you reveal my love to the world.”
Prayer Prompt
Dear Lord, thank you for your unmerited favor and kindness. Teach us to treat others with the same compassion you have shown us, reflecting your love in our words and actions. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: Who is Ruth in the Bible?
Ans: Ruth is a Moabitess who chose to stay with her mother-in-law, Naomi, after the death of her husband. Her story is a testament of loyalty and redemption.
Ques: Who is Boaz?
Ans: Boaz is a wealthy landowner in Bethlehem, a relative of Naomi’s deceased husband and later becomes Ruth’s husband.
Ques: What does ‘favor’ mean in this context?
Ans: ‘Favor’ in this context means unmerited kindness or grace, reflective of God’s favor.
Ques: How can I apply Ruth 2:13 in my life?
Ans: This verse encourages us to appreciate the kindness we receive, acknowledge it as God’s favor, and show the same kindness to others, regardless of their status.
Related Verses
Proverbs 3:3-4: “Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart: So shalt thou find favor and good understanding in the sight of God and man.” This verse emphasizes the same qualities of kindness and truth seen in Ruth 2:13.
Luke 6:31: “And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.” This New Testament verse echoes the message of Ruth 2:13, encouraging us to treat others with kindness.
Ephesians 2:8: “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God.” This verse emphasizes that God’s favor, like Boaz’s favor towards Ruth, is not earned but given freely.
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👉 Join now. No fluff. Just Jesus.