Unlikely Outcomes

“Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife, and he had relations with her. And the LORD enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son.”—Ruth 4:13–14 NASB

Of all the unlikely scenarios in the Bible, none is more unlikely than the marriage of Boaz and Ruth. He was a respected Israelite, a man of property and stature. On the other hand, Ruth not only was not from Israel but came from Moab, people who historically were Israel’s enemies.

It was bad enough when Naomi and her husband, Elimelech, relocated to Moab. Then, when Elimelech and their two sons died, Naomi was left with nothing but Ruth and her other daughter-in-law. Arriving in Israel, they faced more impossible situations. They had nothing and no one to call on for help.

But they discovered they did have Boaz, “a kinsman of her husband, a man of great wealth.” Ruth was given permission by Naomi to go glean in his fields for the grain they needed (Ruth 2:1–2). She went on to win favor and a positive reputation. Then, miraculously, she was able to gain the attention of Boaz and became his wife.

Here she was, a woman without any connections, yet married to a man of prestige and influence in the country where she and her people had been considered enemies.

These are the kinds of miracles God can perform. Impossible mountains can be climbed. Problems that seem unsolvable can be solved. This story should inspire us to believe in the impossible. If Ruth could marry Boaz, what can God do in your life?

Reflection Question: What insurmountable challenge do you need God’s help with?