Genuine Submission: From Ruin to Redemption

In the journey of faith, we often encounter moments that challenge our understanding of devotion and trust. The story of Ruth, a tale of loyalty, love, and redemption, offers profound insights into what it means to genuinely submit to God's will and the transformative power of such submission.
Ruth's journey begins with loss and uncertainty. A Moabite woman, she chooses to follow her mother-in-law Naomi back to Bethlehem after both are widowed. This decision, born out of love and loyalty, sets the stage for an extraordinary demonstration of faith and obedience.
As we delve into Ruth's story, we see her working in the fields of Boaz, a wealthy relative of Naomi. Ruth's diligence and character quickly gain notice. Boaz, impressed by her reputation and actions, shows her kindness and protection. This encounter sets the stage for a pivotal moment in Ruth's life – one that challenges our modern sensibilities but reveals the depth of her trust in God and her mother-in-law's wisdom.
Following Naomi's instructions, Ruth approaches Boaz at night on the threshing floor – a bold and potentially scandalous move. She uncovers his feet and lies down, essentially proposing marriage in the custom of the time. This act of submission – to Naomi's guidance and ultimately to God's plan – showcases Ruth's courage and faith.
Boaz's response is equally telling. Recognizing Ruth as a "woman of noble character," he praises her kindness and takes immediate action to address the matter of marriage and redemption. His commitment to following proper procedures, even when his heart is clearly moved, demonstrates his own submission to God's laws and timing.
This narrative challenges us to examine our own lives. How often do we truly submit to God's will, especially when it seems risky or goes against societal norms? Ruth's example reminds us that genuine submission often requires stepping out in faith, trusting that God's plan is greater than our own understanding.
The concept of submission is often misunderstood or resisted in our culture. We tend to equate it with weakness or loss of control. However, Ruth's story illustrates that true submission to God is an act of strength and trust. It's about aligning our will with God's, recognizing that His wisdom far surpasses our own.
In our daily lives, we face numerous opportunities to submit to God's guidance. It might be in our relationships, our career choices, or our response to life's challenges. Like Ruth, we are called to trust God even when the path forward seems uncertain or unconventional.
The story also highlights the importance of community and mentorship in our faith journey. Naomi's guidance played a crucial role in Ruth's story. Similarly, we need wise counsel and support from fellow believers as we navigate life's complexities. This reminds us of the vital role the church plays in nurturing and guiding believers.
As we reflect on Ruth's journey, we're reminded that God often works in unexpected ways. Ruth, a foreigner from a nation often at odds with Israel, becomes a key figure in the lineage of King David and ultimately, Jesus Christ. This underscores God's inclusive love and His ability to use anyone who submits to His will, regardless of their background or past.
The theme of redemption runs strong through Ruth's story. Boaz, acting as a kinsman-redeemer, reflects God's redeeming love for us. Just as Boaz redeemed Ruth, providing her with a new life and hope, God offers us redemption through Jesus Christ. This redemption is available to all who submit their lives to Him.
In our own lives, we may feel like we're starting from a place of ruin – whether due to our own choices or circumstances beyond our control. Ruth's story encourages us that with genuine submission to God, our story can also be one of redemption. God can take our brokenness and create something beautiful.
The narrative also challenges us to examine how we treat others, especially those who might be considered outsiders. Ruth was embraced by the community in Bethlehem, despite her foreign origins. This serves as a powerful reminder for the church today to be a welcoming, loving community that reflects God's heart for all people.
As we ponder these truths, we're called to action. How can we demonstrate genuine submission in our daily lives? It might mean forgiving someone who has wronged us, stepping out in faith to serve others, or simply trusting God in the midst of uncertainty. Whatever form it takes, true submission always leads us closer to God's heart and purpose for our lives.
Let us be inspired by Ruth's example of faith, courage, and submission. May we, like her, be willing to leave behind our comfort zones and trust God's leading. As we do, we open ourselves to experiencing God's redemptive work in our lives and becoming instruments of His love and grace in the world around us.
In a world that often prioritizes self-reliance and control, the call to submission may seem counterintuitive. Yet, as Ruth's story beautifully illustrates, it is in surrendering to God's will that we find our true purpose and experience the fullness of His blessings. May we have the courage to submit ourselves fully to God, trusting that He is working all things together for our good and His glory.