Naomi was intent on overcoming Boaz’s inertia, so she hatches a plan. But before we get to this very dangerous, and very daring plan, we have to ask the question… Why? There are a number of reasons.

She feels responsible for Ruth, we know, not just because she is her daughter-in-law, but because she loves her and she wants a good life for her. She wants to display to Ruth the same kindness that Ruth has displayed to her. She wants a husband and a home for Ruth.

But, standing out among these many reasons is one—she is anxious. She wants to ensure provision and protection for her sweet daughter-in-law. She is concerned about her future and the vulnerability in which they exist—and we, many of us, can identify.

We all know what it is like to feel vulnerable and anxious about the present and the future, and we often find ourselves afraid not only of the outcomes, but even the feelings themselves. Is it unfair to say that We are afraid of being vulnerable in any way?

Ruth | Resolved | Ruth 3:1-18