Nothing Happens By Chance

In the words of the late R. C. Sproul, "God doesn't roll dice." Nothing happens by chance. Ever. 

Ruth is one of the most beautiful short stories ever written. Every detail counts--nothing is added as filler.

In our study of the book of Ruth, we've seen how, in a time of famine, Elimelech moved his family to Moab (a foolish decision). While they were in pagan territory, Elimelech and his two sons die. Ten years later Naomi, Orpah and Ruth prepare to travel to Bethlehem. Orpah returns to Moab, but Ruth pledges her loyalty to Naomi. Together the two widows--one old and one young--return to Bethlehem at the start of the barley harvest (April-May). Naomi feels like God has abandoned her because she left Bethlehem full and returned empty.

I'm grateful to Drew for bringing us a powerful message last week. And I thank Jared for bringing the Word to our congregation this Sabbath.

As Ruth 1 ends, we can sense that "something" is about to happen, but what is it? How will the story unfold? Naomi feels like she is trapped at midnight. Where is the sunlight of God's kindness?

The first three verses of Ruth 2 begin to unfold the answer. As we study this passage, we can see how God's providence behind the scenes to accomplish something stupendous for Naomi and Ruth. Neither of the widows has the slightest idea of what is about to happen.

How does God's providence work in the lives of ordinary people like Naomi and Ruth?

1. GOD PREPARES PEOPLE. Verse 1: "Now Naomi had a relative on her husband's side. He was a prominent man of noble character from Elimelech's family. His name was Boaz." Naomi came back home deeply discouraged. But God has been at work behind the scenes!

Are you worried about next week, next month, or next year? He's already there! Theologians call it the "prevenient grace" of God. God goes before his people. God is at work in the future while we live in the present.

2. GOD ARRANGES THINGS. Verse 2: "Ruth the Moabitess asked Naomi, 'Will you let me go into the fields and gather fallen grain behind someone with whom I find favor?' Naomi answered her, 'Go ahead my daughter.'" In Deuteronomy 24:19 God had commanded his people to leave some grain in the field so that the poor could have something to eat.. God had commanded the same thing regarding olives and grapes. "Leave some behind so the poor can find food to eat."

3. GOD OVERSEES THE OUTCOMES. Verse 3: "So Ruth left and entered the field to gather grain behind the harvesters. She happened to be in the portion of the field belonging to Boaz, who was from Elimelech's family." The writer is letting us know that Ruth did not set out to glean in Boaz' field.

I like these words from Alva McClain: "From the fall of a raindrop to the fall of an empire, all is under the providential control of God." Not even a sparrow can fall from a branch apart from God's knowledge and control. God numbers the hairs on our heads (Mt. 10:29-31). God oversees the tiniest details of life--nothing happens apart from God.

The God who took care of Ruth, Naomi and Boaz is our God too. We can trust Him!

Your Pastor,

Duff