RUTH’S HARD WORK AND BOAZ’S KINDNESS (RUTH 2:17-3:5)

REFLECTION The theme, “Ruth’s Hard Work and Boaz’s Kindness,” encapsulates two essential pillars of a flourishing life. In this context, “Hard Work” refers to Ruth’s relentless industry and her refusal to succumb to despair, while “Kindness” represents the Hebrew concept of Hesed—a covenant love that goes beyond mere politeness to provide protection and dignity to…

Jean-Paul Agidi

Feb 10, 2026

3–5 minutes

bible, boaz, faith, jesus, ruth

REFLECTION

The theme, “Ruth’s Hard Work and Boaz’s Kindness,” encapsulates two essential pillars of a flourishing life. In this context, “Hard Work” refers to Ruth’s relentless industry and her refusal to succumb to despair, while “Kindness” represents the Hebrew concept of Hesed—a covenant love that goes beyond mere politeness to provide protection and dignity to the vulnerable. Through the lens of Ruth 2:17-3:5, we discover that consistent diligence positions us for divine favour, and that godly kindness creates a bridge for others to cross from poverty to plenty.

The Rewards of Persistent Labour

The first great lesson of this reflection is that diligence is the gateway to favour. In Ruth 2:17, the scripture records that “she gleaned in the field until evening, and threshed what she had gleaned.” Ruth did not merely show up; she remained until the task was complete. Her hard work was visible, measurable, and exhaustive. In our contemporary Ghanaian context, we see this spirit in the “kayayei” of our urban centres or the petty traders who endure the scorching sun in markets like Kejetia or Makola. Like Ruth, these individuals are driven by a sense of responsibility to their families.

The lesson here is persuasive and clear: God does not bless a vacuum; He blesses the work of our hands. As Proverbs 14:23 reminds us, “In all labour there is profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.” Ruth’s sweat served as her testimony long before she ever spoke a word to Boaz. It was her industry reputation that preceded her, proving that excellence in the “little things” is what prepares us for the “greater things.”

The Power of Intentional Kindness

Furthermore, we see that true kindness recognises and rewards character. When Ruth returned to her mother-in-law, she revealed the extent of Boaz’s generosity. Boaz did not just allow her to glean; he ensured she was safe, hydrated, and well-fed. His kindness was an active, protective response to her virtue. In many of our communities, kindness is often reduced to occasional almsgiving. However, Boaz’s example teaches us to be intentional. Whether one is a business mogul in Accra or a community leader, kindness should mean paying a living wage or mentoring a hardworking junior staff member.

Boaz acted as a “Kinsman Redeemer,” a role that required both the means and the will to help. We are encouraged by Galatians 6:9, which says, “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” Boaz’s kindness was not just a gesture; it was a life-changing intervention that restored Ruth’s dignity and future.

Strategy, Submission, and the Path to Rest

Finally, the transition from the field to the threshing floor in Ruth 3:1-5 teaches us that strategy and submission lead to rest. Naomi, acting as a mentor, provided Ruth with a specific plan: “Wash yourself therefore, and anoint yourself, and put on your best clothes and go down to the threshing floor.” Ruth’s response was one of total submission: “All that you say to me I will do.” While hard work gets us into the “field,” it is often wisdom and obedience to godly counsel that lead us to our place of permanent “rest.” Ruth’s willingness to follow Naomi’s instructions shows that she was not just a labourer, but a woman of character who respected the wisdom of those who came before her. In our modern lives, we must combine our professional hustle with the spiritual and practical wisdom found in our faith communities and elder circles.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

In summary, the story of Ruth and Boaz proves that when a person’s industry meets another person’s integrity, miracles happen. Ruth’s labour provided bread for a day, but Boaz’s kindness provided a home for a lifetime. We have seen that persistence attracts favour, true kindness restores dignity, and obedience to godly counsel is the final step in moving from survival to significance.

I challenge you today: if you are in a season of “gleaning,” do not complain. Work with such excellence that your character becomes your loudest recommendation. Conversely, if you are in a position of “Boaz”—a person of influence and means—look beyond your profit margins. Find a “Ruth” in your workplace or neighbourhood and be the answer to their prayers through your kindness. Let us be a people who work hard and love even harder.

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the example of Ruth’s diligence and Boaz’s heart. Grant us the strength to work heartily as unto the Lord, even in difficult seasons. Open our eyes to see those around us who need a hand of kindness, and give us the grace to be channels of Your Hesed love. May our hard work and Your favour bring us into our place of divine rest. In Jesus’ name, Amen.