I like the first day’s study of session 4 from Ruth, Loss, Love, Legacy. We are about to jump in to the “love” portion of it. 
Naomi’s plan for Ruth to go to the threshing floor where Boaz will be is interesting, curious, intriguing for sure. What was she thinking? Sending a woman alone in the dark of night looking lovely and smelling delicious. Boaz had been at his work site all day winnowing barley with other men. I imagine the most prevalent smell among them was sweat.
And along comes the sweet “Moabite rose” as Kelly Minter aptly puts it.
The plan was unusual, to say the least. I believe Naomi to be a woman of God, despite her grief and the resulting anguish and blame she put on God. Who of us hasn’t blamed God and questioned what in the world He was doing in the midst of our pain?
I picture Naomi praying and petitioning Yahweh for months while Ruth went daily to the fields to glean. She must have seen how weary Ruth was each evening, her hands blistered, her back aching. And I believe Naomi began to formulate a plan, with the inspiration of God, to bring about rest, a home, and a husband for Ruth, her beloved daughter-in-law.
The Scriptures in Proverbs and Jeremiah that Kelly listed in the study guide paint a picture of a sovereign God who meticulously manages the universe and our individual lives with thought and care.
- Proverbs 20:24 assures me my steps are ordered by the Lord though I don’t always understand what’s going on.
- Proverbs 16:1 says I can make all sorts of plans in my mind, but the truly wise answer will come from the Lord.
- Proverbs 21:30-31 confirms no wisdom of man can ever stand up against God’s plan. We might think we are in this thing on our own, but be assured, He is fighting battles and will bring victory for His children.
- Jeremiah 10:23 tells me I cannot direct my own steps in my own wisdom.
It all reminds me of a song by The Martins, my all-time favorite Southern Gospel music groups.
“God’s gonna do what He’s gonna do. He’s always up to something new, and you’ll never know just who He’s gonna use. So when He calls your name, my friend, find your place and jump right in if you wanna be in on what God’s gonna do.”
It’s worth listening to: http://www.myspace.com/martinfamilyband/music/albums/what-god-s-gonna-do-studio-track-14188400
Making my own plans and asking God to bless them is a futile effort; I must seek to know God’s perfect plan first. Like Naomi, I can know God’s heart and understand Him more by being attentive to Scripture. I should seek Him daily for direction and wisdom in making decisions. I must conform my plan to His plan if I expect to make any progress.
I have a card on my desk that says, “God, I want to be part of your plan today.” That says it all. Care to jump right in?
Peggy's Journal 
What a great way to share the word of God!
Hi Peggy!
I’m just now getting caught up on your Bible study posts – I intended to read them faithfully as I love your studies. I have always loved the story of Ruth and the special relationship she had with her mother-in-law and how God directed her life to meet the man who would be hers. Such a beautiful story! And you, my friend, shared special “truth lessons” found within the story so beautifully.
Come and have lunch with me soon – I don’t get out too much (mainly on Sunday to church) but I still love to prepare for others my cooking and baking. As Candi has mentioned that the Fall weather makes her want to eat more – it makes me want to bake and cook more – don’t know why that’s so – but I’m enjoying it anyway.
I love you dear friend and pray God will continue to bless you in your studies. (I’m serious about lunch so fit it in your schedule and call me – okay!)
Your friend,
Judy
Peggy,
I am really enjoying your webset and appreciate all the work you put into it. Wednesday nights are wonderful. Thank you for leading the class. I appreciate you so much.
Dolores
Delores, it is an honor to have a fellow teacher in the group. Your heart for God’s Word is evident and I love it when you let the “teacher in you” speak out.
Its been a special treat to visit your new blogg. The study of Ruth has been a real blessing to this heart. I’m being enlightened by your comments. Sharing with the other ladies has enriched my study.Meeting and getting to know the others at our table on Wenesday nite has been a plus for me. Keep up the great lessons, you always make class fun and give us a reason to laugh. I’m loving your object lessons. Visual pictures always stay in my mind. I’m also loving the music from Kelly’s CD. I’ve gotta get this one. Blessings my dear friend.
Thanks for the encouraging words, Elaine. Encouragement is your gift.