Unexpected Rewards of Mercy

When Ruth, the Moabitess, married into a family of Israelites, she had no idea what trials and blessings were ahead.

Her marriage was brief. Her husband died, as did her father- and brother-in-law. And then her grieving, bitter mother-in-law, Naomi, decided to return to Israel.

Would Ruth go home, or would she live among strangers with Naomi? Although she had seen sorrow in Elimelech’s household, she had also seen faith. She knew Naomi’s God was the true God, and she chose Him.

So she remained with Naomi, serving her as a faithful daughter.

Her mercy did not go unnoticed. The people of Bethlehem talked. By the time she arrived in Boaz’s field, he already knew of all she had done for Naomi, so he offered her food and protection. He also blessed her saying, “a full reward be given thee of the Lord” (Ruth 2:12 KJV).

Ruth had a fuller reward than she could have imagined. She married Boaz and became part of the lineage of Christ.

Our acts of mercy are never ignored by our Lord. In His time, He will give a full reward. As we sow, so shall we reap.