Daily Devotionals

'Every Day Light' with Selwyn Hughes

Devotional: July 24th

For Reading and Meditation:
     Ruth 2:5-12

As Boaz makes his way through the field, talking to his workers, his eye falls upon the figure of Ruth. "Who is she?" he asks. His workers quickly inform him that she is the widowed daughter-in-law of Naomi, a Moabite by birth. We cannot be sure that it was love at first sight, but Boaz certainly shows all the signs of it. He walks over to Ruth and says: "Don't go and glean in another field and don't go away from here – I have told the men not to touch you. And whenever you are thirsty, go and get a drink from the water jars the men have filled" (vv. 8-9). Isn't that the language of a man in love? This protective care and concern prompts Ruth to ask: "Why have I found such favor in your eyes that you notice me - a foreigner?" (v. 10). Clearly, Boaz already knows of the return of Naomi and how her daughter-in-law Ruth has stayed at her side. He sums up his feelings in the words: "May the Lord repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge" (v. 12). Some of you have stood for God despite great criticism from your families and friends. He has seen all your tears, all your heartache and all your sacrifices. And He promises you a perfect reward one day. Draw close to Him now and nestle beneath the shelter of His great wings. Look up and see how easily they cover you. Under His wings there is no further need for tears - just trust!

O Father, how marvelous is Your timing. Just when I need it, You find a way of bringing me the greatest encouragement when all other doors are closed. You find a secret stair into my soul. Thank You, dear Father. I take this word from You. Amen.