Introduction

The family is important. My dad has two sisters still alive, one who lives in Oklahoma and one in Texas. The one in Texas has dementia. My aunt who lives in Oklahoma is an amazing woman. She loves Jesus. She is artistic and funny. She was with me the day my dad went to heaven. I am close to her sons my cousins. When we are together, we remember the old times and create new memories. Today we read about another kinsman besides Boaz in our story.

Reading and Assignment

Ruth 3: 12-13, SOAP Ruth 3: 12-13. Tomorrow’s reading is Ruth 3:14-18.

Scripture

And now it is true that I am thy near kinsman: howbeit there is a kinsman nearer than I. Tarry this night, and it shall be in the morning, that if he will perform unto thee the part of a kinsman, well; let him do the kinsman’s part: but if he will not do the part of a kinsman to thee, then will I do the part of a kinsman to thee, as the Lord liveth: lie down until the morning” (Ruth 3:12-13, KJV).

Observation

Boaz shares that there is another kinsman, a relative, that according to the Biblical laws needs the chance to be the one who marries Ruth. Boaz does not procrastinate, he plans to address this other person. This other person probably should have already offered to marry Ruth. Boaz is willing to marry Ruth and to fulfill the law.

Application

Boaz knew God’s laws and trusted God with the future. Do you know God’s word, follow God’s word, obey God’s word? Boaz knew he needed to settle the dilemma of another kinsman redeemer. Is there a situation you need to address? Perhaps, there is someone you need to forgive?

Prayer

Father God, I stand in awe of Your majesty. Thank You for Your word. Lord, search me and know me and see if there is any offensive way in me. Let me be quick to follow you. Let me be faithful to not put off what needs to be done today. Thank you for this love story that Boaz was willing to be Ruth’s kinsman redeemer. I know that You live within me and are my redeemer. I pray Lord that every woman will put you first.  In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Conclusion

My family is so important to me. Because of Facebook, I am in touch with my Aunt and my cousins. Boaz wants to marry Ruth but there is an obstacle in the way, this other family member that should have already married Ruth. As I read the commentaries, Boaz follows the law. The commentaries also say that He honored Ruth and there was nothing sexual when he says lie down until morning. As the Lord liveth was an oath. Boaz exemplifies integrity.

Who is your kinsmen redeemer?