Not impressed by riches - E lē seetia i le tamaoa’iga

Scripture Focus: Ruta 3:1-15

Naomi her mother-in-law said to her, “My daughter, shall I not seek rest for you, that it may be well with you? Now isn’t Boaz our kinsman, with whose maidens you were? Behold, he winnows barley tonight in the threshing floor. Therefore wash yourself, anoint yourself, get dressed, and go down to the threshing floor, but don’t make yourself known to the man until he has finished eating and drinking. It shall be, when he lies down, that you shall mark the place where he shall lie, and you shall go in, and uncover his feet, and lay down; then he will tell you what you shall do.” She said to her, “All that you say I will do.” She went down to the threshing floor, and did according to all that her mother-in-law told her. When Boaz had eaten and drunk, and his heart was merry, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain. She came softly, uncovered his feet, and laid her down. At midnight, the man was startled and turned himself; and behold, a woman lay at his feet. He said, “Who are you?” She answered, “I am Ruth your handmaid. Therefore spread your skirt over your handmaid; for you are a near kinsman.” He said, “Blessed are you by Yahweh, my daughter. You have shown more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning, because you didn’t follow young men, whether poor or rich. Now, my daughter, don’t be afraid; I will do to you all that you say; for all the city of my people does know that you are a worthy woman. Now it is true that I am a near kinsman; however there is a kinsman nearer than I. Stay this night, and it shall be in the morning, that if he will perform for you the part of a kinsman, well; let him do the kinsman’s part. But if he will not do the part of a kinsman for you, then I will do the part of a kinsman for you, as Yahweh lives. Lie down until the morning.” She lay at his feet until the morning. She rose up before one could discern another. For he said, “Let it not be known that the woman came to the threshing floor.” He said, “Bring the mantle that is on you, and hold it.” She held it; and he measured six measures of barley, and laid it on her; and he went into the city.
- Ruth 3:1-15 (WEB)

Study:

The story of Ruth chapter 3 reveals the themes of trust, honor, and divine provision within scarcity. Naomi, Ruth's mother-in-law, guides Ruth to seek security through Boaz, their kinsman-redeemer, demonstrating a practical and faith-filled approach to difficult circumstances. Ruth approaches Boaz with humility and respect, not relying on wealth or status but on character and kinship. Boaz recognizes Ruth's integrity, noting that she did not pursue men based on riches, highlighting the virtue of valuing people over possessions. This passage teaches us about God's faithfulness to those who live with honor amid scarcity.

Application:

In our modern lives, it is easy to be impressed by riches or status as markers of security and success. However, Ruth’s example encourages us to place our trust in God’s provision and live with integrity, regardless of our material circumstances. When faced with scarcity—whether financial or emotional—we are reminded to rely on faith, God's guidance, and community support rather than chasing after wealth or superficial gain. God's kindness and care manifest through faithful relationships and right living, not merely through abundance.

Reflection Questions:

• How do I typically respond to scarcity or lack in my life?
• In what ways can I imitate Ruth’s trust and integrity in my daily relationships?
• Do I value people for who they are or for what they have?
• What does it mean for me to be a person of kindness, especially when resources are limited?
• How can I seek God’s provision and peace instead of worldly riches?

Prayer:

Lord, help me to trust in Your provision and to live with integrity and kindness, even when I face scarcity. Teach me to value Your blessings beyond material wealth and to be a faithful servant like Ruth. May I find rest and security in You alone. Amen.

Tags:(Ruth, Kinsman Redeemer, Faith, Integrity, Scarcity, Trust in God, Bible Study, Scripture Reflection, Ruth 3, God’s Provision)