“And she went down unto the floor, and did according to all that her mother in law bade her.”– Ruth 3:6 (KJV)
“So Ruth went down to the threshing floor and did everything her mother-in-law had told her to do.”– Ruth 3:6 (NLT)
“So she went down to the threshing floor and did everything her mother-in-law told her to do.”– Ruth 3:6 (MSG)
What Does Ruth 3:6 Mean?
This verse in the book of Ruth holds a special significance for many believers. It captures a pivotal moment in the storyline, showing the transformation of Ruth from a widow grappling with loss to a woman taking significant steps towards a hopeful future. In these simple actions, we see the embodiment of trust and obedience, demonstrating how faith can lead to a divine outcome.
Ruth has been guided by her mother-in-law, Naomi, who tells her to approach Boaz, their family relative, at the threshing floor. In this light, we realize just how much influence Naomi has in Ruth’s life, her voice carrying wisdom born from experience. Ruth’s decision to follow Naomi’s advice showcases a commitment not only to her family but also to a faith journey that stems from loyalty, love, and a strong sense of responsibility. For us, this emphasizes the importance of seeking wise counsel in matters of our lives, as we too face decisions that can shape our future.
Ruth 3:6 Explanation and Commentary
Ruth’s obedience to Naomi highlights how interconnected our lives can be. Naomi was not only a mother-in-law but also a mentor. Her advice to Ruth was rooted in their shared experiences, understanding their cultural expectations and traditions. This moment indicates the trust that Ruth places in Naomi’s wisdom and the deep bond that has been forged through adversity. We can reflect upon our relationships and the voices that guide us, recognizing the importance of surrounding ourselves with those whose life experiences can offer us insight.
In approaching Boaz, we should contemplate both the gravity of Ruth’s situation and the courage it took for her to step out of her comfort zone. She was a foreigner in a land that harbored its own traditions and practices, yet she chose to act on her faith. This encourages us to take bold actions in our lives, pressing forward even when the path is unclear. Sometimes, all we need is to take that first step based on trust and faith.
This verse also prompts us to reflect on why Ruth was instructed to approach Boaz at the threshing floor. It symbolizes the time of harvest, a season of abundance and the potential for new beginnings. As we apply this to our lives, we see that the “threshing floor” can represent moments in our own lives where divine opportunities arise, urging us to act despite uncertainty. Such moments are often filled with hope and promise, and we can liken them to times when we take significant risks that advance our journeys.
Context of Ruth 3:6
To appreciate the full context of Ruth 3:6, we must first understand the backstory leading to this point. Ruth is a Moabite who suffered the loss of her husband. When Naomi lost her husband and her two sons, she chose to return to Bethlehem, having heard that the Lord had provided for His people there. At this juncture, Ruth decides to accompany her, declaring, “Where you go, I will go; and where you stay, I will stay.” This was not merely a commitment to Naomi; it was an act of faith in the God of Israel whom Ruth had come to know through her relationship with Naomi.
This act of loyalty set in motion a series of events that would change the lives of both women forever. Ruth began to glean in the fields of Boaz, a relative of Naomi. As the story unfolds, we encounter the cultural customs of Israel, including the practice of levirate marriage, where a relative marries a widow to continue the family line. Naomi devises a plan to ensure Ruth’s future through Boaz, a man of standing whose actions speak not only of kindness but also of moral integrity. Here, we recognize how interconnected lives can truly lead to redemptive outcomes if we are willing to trust one another and follow godly wisdom.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Ruth 3:6
The key components of Ruth 3:6 come alive when we examine the distinct aspects of Ruth’s journey. When Ruth “went down unto the floor,” this signifies both her physical journey and her spiritual commitment. The act of going down can symbolize humility, a surrendering of pride as she approaches Boaz with a heart open to what is to come. We, too, can find meaning in humbling ourselves as we acknowledge our needs and the needs of others.
The instruction to do “according to all that her mother-in-law bade her” signifies a complete trust in Naomi’s judgment. As she steps forth into the unknown, we see an example of how stepping out in faith can lead to God’s blessings, often beyond our comprehension. In this part of the verse, we must ask ourselves what it means to be obedient. Obedience is not simply submission but involves a deep understanding of who we trust, willingly choosing to align our actions with the wisdom imparted to us.
We also refer to the symbolic nature of the threshing floor—a space where grain is separated from chaff. In our lives, we may find ourselves in situations where we, too, must separate the ‘good’ from the ‘bad’ or the ‘important’ from the ‘irrelevant.’ This highlights the importance of discernment as we enter the ‘threshing floors’ of our lives. We are reminded that it is in these moments of segregation that we find clarity and direction, leading us closer to our purpose.
Lessons to Learn From Ruth 3:6
Ruth 3:6 teaches us about the essence of obedience and faith. It gives us insight into the rich tapestry of family bonds, mentorship, and trust. As we consider our own relationships, we see how important it is to nurture and value those connections. At times, we may have advice or wisdom to share, that could shine a light for others on their path or help them steer through difficult decisions.
This scripture also serves as a powerful reminder of taking steps even when the end result is still unclear. Oftentimes, we may feel apprehensive about how actions will unfold, but Ruth’s story illustrates the importance of taking a leap of faith. Each decision we make can be a building block towards something greater. Much like Ruth, we may not know what will happen next, but we can trust that our steps aligned with righteousness will lead to blessings.
Through Ruth, we can see the importance of seeking community and surrounding ourselves with individuals who offer support and guidance. In our lives, we can encourage and mentor others as Naomi did for Ruth, fostering an environment of trust, belief, and shared growth. As we journey together, we can celebrate each other’s victories and navigate challenges hand-in-hand, just as Ruth and Naomi did.
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on Ruth 3:6, we are inspired to recognize the intertwining of our lives with those around us. We can take Ruth’s example to heart, embracing the lessons of obedience, trust, and faith as we seek to grow in our own spiritual journeys. This powerful narrative encourages us to step into the unknown with confidence, knowing that each of us can have a profound impact on those we encounter.
As we continue on our paths, we can draw strength from the bond shared between Ruth and Naomi, learning to cherish and value our connections in a world that can often feel isolating. May we have the courage to act, the humility to listen to wise counsel, and the faith to trust in the plans that God has instored for us. Let’s walk alongside others, guiding and being guided, just as Ruth and Naomi did. For more inspiring stories and lessons, we encourage you to explore topics like Acts of the Apostles and The book of Joshua. Together, let’s continue to learn and grow.