es for her. She sees Ruth coming with almost an ephah of wheat, Naomi is amazed and asks who has showed you this kindness. Tears of joy fall from her eyes, for she knows God has not deserted her but how, who would be so generous. Ruth where have you been gleaning at Naomi asks excitedly. Ruth tells her of the days events. Naomi blesses the Lord for she knows that Boaz is a Redeemer Kinsman. Naomi then tells Ruth, do exactly as this man tells you for he is a kinsman. That night Naomi slept well, blessing the Lord for all his kindness for he has not left her barren. At the instruction of Boaz and Naomi, Ruth stays in Boazs fields all through the barley harvest gleaning with his servant girls. She worked all day in the fields and then made her way into town to return to Naomi, bringing her the days work. Ruth must have been treated very well since all knew she was closely related to Boaz. It was also well known among the people of Bethlehem that she had forsaken all to stay with Naomi. Loyalty and faithfulness where well regarded in those days as in our society today.As the harvest was coming to a close, Naomi says to Ruth, should I not try to find a home for you, where you will be well provided for? (The International Inductive Study Bible 1995) Is not Boaz a near kinsman of ours? Wash and perfume yourself, and put on your best clothes. Then go down to the threshing floor, but do not let him know that you are there until he has finished eating and drinking. When he lies down, note the place and uncover his feet and lie down. He will tell you what to do. (The International Inductive study Bible 1995). Naomi must have been deeply concerned for this young woman who had showed her so much kindness. It was the end of the harvest, what would happen to Ruth now? I imagine Naomi daily asking the Lord what should be the future of Ruth. As she prayed and sought the Lord he gave her wisdom and direction. She was attentive and open to his leading, as...
