When we see a geneology in scripture, we can be reminded that God has been soverignly weaving a beautiful "scarlett thread" through history that placed Jesus exactly where He wanted Him, and placed us exactly where He wanted us, from before the foundations of the world.

We can look at the admonishment of Naomi in a modern lense and see how we are constantly seeking justification by works. We can take the same admonishment and see how our Redeemer has brought life and has satisfied so we should not call ourselves Bitter but Pleasant.

Looking further at this interesting act of the sandal handed over, we see a man abdicating what he could not do to a redeemer that gladly took it. We abdicate what we are able to offer to a Redeemer who gladly took it upon Himself.

In chapter 4, we learn about the namless man who was more concerned with his name than doing the right thing. We, in Christ, are brought in to the heritage of Jesus and are given His Name.

Continuing into chapter 3 this week, Ruth is put in a difficult situation. She throws herself on the character of a mighty man of valor. We have to realize that we cannot redeem ourselves, only Jesus can. He is the one that freely redeems us.

As we continue to study the Book of Ruth, we see the Lord showering blessings on Ruth through Boaz, but Naomi views Boaz as the source of her blessings. We're reminded that the Lord is the source of all our provision and every blessing.

We're reminded by Ruth that as people of the Word, we should take refuge in the Gospel. It is only under the wings of our Savior that we can deny the lies of the enemy and find our ultimate hope and rest.

Continuing our study through the book of Ruth, we see how Naomi's beliefs and actions look very similar to the modern cultural "Christianity" and how these things lead to a twisted view of scripture, a damaged view of God, a distorted view of sin, and a perverted view of grace. We cannot hold something so powerful so lightly.

Beginning our study in the book of Ruth, Pastor Matt Bowles not only lays down a contextual baseline for the study, but also shows us what we can see of the character of Naomi and her family from their acts in these beginning verses. We, as a people of God, hold fast to His promises and trust His Word.

As we begin the new year, Pastor Matt preaches on a biblical understanding of our stewardship of time and finances. These are probably the two facets of a Christian life that we have the hardest time surrendering to the Lord, but God calls us to give Him all that we have because they are His in the first place.