Bible Text: Ruth 2:1-23 | Preacher: Pastor Joe Ricchuiti | Series: Ruth, When God is in Control

1.  Ruth and Boaz are people with that something extra.  They go beyond what is expected, beyond the ordinary, beyond the minimum duty and requirements. They stood in stark contrast to the immorality, idolatry, spiritual apathy and indifference to God and His will in the period of the Judges.  In every generation God looks for those who will stand above the crowd.

2.  Boaz notices Ruth and inquires about who she is, learning that she is related to Naomi (a relative of his) and that her work ethic is as solid as her reputation. Ruth is known as a woman of character (2:11; 3:11)

3.  As with Boaz, Ruth had outstanding character and qualities, qualities which are worth emulating.  They are:

-she was a woman of faith who trusted the Lord to provide for her physical needs as well as her need of significance

-she didn’t make demands or seek to get her own way, but trusted in God’s timing and direction

-she submitted to those around her, who were over her in the Lord

-she was gentle, not an “in your face” kind of person, common in our day

-she was not self-serving but unselfish with a servant’s heart, not thinking of herself

-she was humble and thankful

-she was patient, waiting for and expecting God to move in her life

-she was well respected

-she cared for the widowed/elderly

-she willingly took up her responsibilities