And They Lived Happily Ever After
The book of Ruth ends with a joyful climax—Boaz marries Ruth, and God blesses them with a son, Obed. This child brings renewed life to Naomi and secures Ruth’s place in the lineage of King David and ultimately Jesus Christ. The story begins in sorrow but ends in redemption, illustrating God’s providence, grace, and faithfulness. Boaz’s role as kinsman-redeemer foreshadows Christ, who voluntarily redeemed us at great cost. Just as Ruth’s life was transformed, our lives are changed through Christ’s love. For those in God’s family, the story truly ends with “happily ever after”—forever.
Sealed With a Sandal
In Ruth 4, Boaz courageously and strategically secures Ruth’s redemption at the city gate, where legal matters are resolved. Though another relative has the first right to redeem Ruth, Boaz honors God’s law and lets him choose first. When the man declines—unwilling to risk his own estate—Boaz steps in as the kinsman-redeemer. The transaction is confirmed by a symbolic sandal exchange. Boaz’s selfless love mirrors Christ’s, who redeems us despite our past. This chapter beautifully affirms that God’s providence works through faithful obedience and that no background disqualifies anyone from His redemptive plan.
A Midnight Proposal
In Ruth 3, Naomi encourages Ruth to approach Boaz and request redemption according to God’s law. Ruth humbly follows Naomi’s plan, proposing marriage to Boaz in a private, respectful way. Boaz is honored but reveals there’s a closer relative with the first right to redeem her. Still, he promises to act if the other man declines. Boaz’s integrity and Ruth’s faith highlight their trust in God’s Word. This midnight encounter offers a powerful picture of Christ’s redeeming love—He works on our behalf while we rest in His grace, trusting that only He can secure our eternal redemption.
No Such Thing as Chance
In Ruth 2, God’s providence unfolds through what seems like ordinary decisions. Ruth “happens” to glean in Boaz’s field, but this is no coincidence—it’s divine orchestration. Boaz, a godly man and potential kinsman-redeemer, notices Ruth and shows her kindness, protection, and generosity. His actions picture Christ’s redeeming love. As Ruth receives abundant provision, we’re reminded that God is always working behind the scenes. This lesson encourages us to trust God’s quiet, faithful guidance and to live in a way that honors Him daily—because nothing in life is left to chance.
The Man Who Had It Made
This lesson from Judges 13–14, titled “The Man Who Had It Made,” introduces Samson—the best-known judge of Israel—whose life began with divine promise but quickly revealed deep personal flaws. Born to godly parents and set apart as a Nazirite, Samson was blessed with supernatural strength and called to deliver Israel from the Philistines. Yet, despite his spiritual heritage, Samson was driven by selfish desires and external appearances. His demand to marry a Philistine woman and his disregard for godly counsel highlight a heart far from God. The lesson underscores that external blessings do not guarantee internal character, and godly parents are not guaranteed godly children. Still, God remains sovereign and can use even the failures of His people to accomplish His purposes.
Cross Your Heart and Hope to Die
This lesson from Judges 11:12–12:15, titled “Cross Your Heart and Hope to Die,” examines Jephthah’s tragic failure to trust God fully. As he prepares for battle against the Ammonites, Jephthah makes a reckless vow—offering as a burnt offering whatever first comes out of his house—trying to secure victory through spiritual bargaining. When his daughter is the first to appear, his vow brings deep sorrow. However, the text suggests she was not sacrificed physically but was dedicated to lifelong service at the tabernacle, never marrying. The lesson highlights that God cannot be bribed or manipulated and that true faith rests in His unbreakable promises. Jephthah's story ends with unnecessary conflict and civil war, reinforcing the dangers of distrusting God's Word and relying on human schemes.
Surprising Grace
This lesson from Judges 10:1–11:11, titled “Surprising Grace,” highlights God’s incredible ability to redeem broken lives and use unlikely people for His purposes. After a period of peace under Judges Tola and Jair, Israel returns to idolatry and suffers under enemy oppression. When the people finally repent, God responds by raising up Jephthah—a rejected outcast and son of a prostitute. Though disqualified by his past, Jephthah chooses grace over revenge and steps forward in faith to lead the people who once cast him out. The lesson powerfully demonstrates that no one is beyond God’s reach and that true healing and purpose are found when we surrender our past to His grace.
Failure in the Final Lap
This lesson from Judges 8:22–9:57, titled “Failure in the Final Lap,” chronicles the tragic downfall of Gideon after a strong beginning. Though he rightly credits God for Israel’s victory and refuses kingship, Gideon soon compromises by collecting gold and making a golden ephod—an unauthorized object of worship. His actions shift worship away from God's design, leading Israel into idolatry. Over time, Gideon amasses wealth, multiple wives, and even names his son Abimelech (“my father is king”), signaling prideful ambition. After Gideon’s death, Abimelech murders his 70 brothers and declares himself king, plunging Israel into chaos. The lesson warns believers that a good start doesn’t guarantee a faithful finish—and calls for daily humility, obedience, and dependence on God's Word.
No Room for Heroes
This lesson from Judges 7:1–8:21, titled “No Room for Heroes,” highlights how God intentionally reduces Gideon’s army from 32,000 to just 300 soldiers to ensure that Israel’s victory over the Midianites cannot be credited to human strength. God uses an unconventional battle plan—trumpets, torches, and broken jars—to create confusion among the enemy, proving His power works through humble, obedient servants. The lesson also warns of post-victory dangers: pride, disunity, and lack of support from fellow Israelites. Gideon handles conflict with grace and continues his mission despite exhaustion. The takeaway: God doesn’t need celebrities—He uses servants whose confidence is in Him alone.
Putting Away the Fleece
This lesson from Judges 6, titled “Putting Away the Fleece,” introduces Gideon—an unlikely hero chosen by God to deliver Israel from the oppression of Midian. Though fearful and hesitant, Gideon obeys God’s call, beginning with a bold act of tearing down his family's altar to Baal. His obedience stirs both public outrage and private conviction, even prompting his father to take a stand. Despite God’s clear promises, Gideon still seeks confirmation through the famous “fleece test,” revealing his weak faith. The lesson warns against testing God instead of trusting His Word and encourages believers to rely on Scripture, wise counsel, and prayer rather than signs to discern God’s will.