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Ruth 2:20 (BSB)
Then Naomi said to her daughter-in-law, “May he be blessed by the LORD, who has not withdrawn His kindness from the living or the dead.” Naomi continued, “The man is a close relative. He is one of our kinsman-redeemers.”
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Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“Then Naomi said to her daughter-in-law, “May he be blessed by the LORD, who has not withdrawn His kindness from the living or the dead.” Naomi continued, “The man is a close relative. He is one of our kinsman-redeemers.”” — Ruth 2:20
In this moment, Naomi is expressing deep gratitude and hope. She's recognizing someone's kindness, not just to her but to everyone around them, both the living and those who have passed on. It's like she's shining a light on this person's goodness, saying, 'Look at this! This matters!' You can feel the warmth in her words, as she connects the dots between the past and the present, showing that kindness is a thread that weaves through our lives, bringing us together even in tough times.
The book of Ruth is traditionally attributed to Samuel, a prophet who lived during the time of the judges in Israel. He wanted to preserve this story because it highlights the importance of community, kindness, and family ties. By including this detail about Naomi’s recognition of Boaz, he emphasizes the idea that there are people in our lives who can offer support and help us heal, even in our darkest moments. It's a reminder that hope can be found in unexpected places.
This story takes place in ancient Israel, during a time when people were often struggling with famine and uncertainty. The culture was heavily focused on family and community support, especially during hard times. Naomi and Ruth are widows, which puts them in a vulnerable position, relying on the kindness of others. Understanding this backdrop helps you see why Naomi's words about kindness are so significant—it's a lifeline in a world that can feel very harsh and isolating.
This verse is a powerful reminder that kindness has a ripple effect, reaching beyond just one person. It's about recognizing the impact of someone's good actions, whether they're here with you now or they've left this world. In your life, you might be facing challenges or feeling alone, and Naomi's words can inspire you to look for the kindness around you. It encourages you to appreciate the people who show up for you and reminds you that even in tough times, there’s hope and support waiting to be discovered.
Take a moment this week to notice acts of kindness around you. Whether it's a friend lending a hand or a stranger's smile, let those moments sink in. You can also reach out to someone who might be in need of encouragement. Send a text, write a note, or even offer help where you can. Reflect on how your kindness can make a difference in someone else's life, just like Boaz did for Ruth and Naomi. It's about building connections and lifting each other up.
This verse is part of a powerful story unfolding in Naomi and Ruth's lives. Naomi, who has faced immense loss, is beginning to see a glimmer of hope in a man named Boaz, who has stepped in with kindness. Just before this moment, Ruth, Naomi's daughter-in-law, has been out gathering food, and Boaz has taken notice of her. Naomi’s words here signal a turning point; it shows that hope is waking up in her heart as she sees a chance for redemption and a brighter future. This verse carries the weight of potential change, setting the stage for what’s to come in their journey.
What does it mean to you to recognize kindness in your life, and how can you express gratitude for those moments?
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