3/14/26

Ruth 4:6 NASB95 The closest relative said, “I cannot redeem it for myself, because I would jeopardize my own inheritance. Redeem it for yourself; you may have my right of redemption, for I cannot redeem it.”

What a picture this paints of a future dealing. The closest relative had an opportunity. He could have the land to increase his wealth, but he would also have to take Ruth and have a child with her, who would belong to the line of Elimelech. Because he feared having to divide his land into smaller pieces he chose not to. His concern was only his possessions. His property was all that mattered to him.

On the other hand, Boaz was concerned with the person of Ruth and what she had been through. He didn't care about the land and the possibility that he would lose his name and inheritance to the line of Elimelech. He would purchase the land only for the person of Ruth and Naomi.

One wanted the rule of the land but didn't care for the people and the other had no interest in the land. He was only concerned with the people.

In Matthew 4:8-9 NASB95 Again, the devil took Him to a very high mountain and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory; and he said to Him, “All these things I will give You, if You fall down and worship me.”

Jesus wasn't concerned with the land, he turned Satan down because it would cost the people. Jesus instead gave His life to purchase the world that will later be destroyed by fire just so He could save the people who would place their faith in Him.

Boaz bought the farm because he loved Ruth.

Jesus bought the world because He loves you!

The close relative didn't love Ruth, he loved himself.

Satan doesn't love you he loves himself.

Whom would you desire, one who will give you away for his wealth or one who will give all He has including His life for you?

Are you more like the close relative, or Boaz, Satan, or Jesus?

Something to ponder. Should we use people to get wealth that will burn or use wealth to keep people from burning?

Jesus chose to empty Himself to keep us from the fire.

Love Bro. Scott