Freely Speaking Audio Devotion

Welcome to Freely Speaking, an OHSOFREE devotional ministry where we share our hearts and trust God for transformation.

Today’s devotion was written by Shayla Bullock.

“Also Ruth the Moabite, the widow of Mahlon, I have bought to be my wife, to perpetuate the name of the dead in his inheritance, that the name of the dead may not be cut off from among his brothers and from the gate of his native place. You are witnesses this day.” (Ruth 4:10 ESV)

Have you made a large purchase recently? What went into your decision-making process? When we think about making a purchase, we think about things, not people.

We would be appalled to hear someone speaking of purchasing someone today. How would you respond to a husband declaring he bought his wife? I imagine it would bring a visceral response.

I had a similar response while reading the book of Ruth, particularly Ruth 4:10, “Also Ruth the Moabite, the widow of Mahlon, I have bought to be my wife, to perpetuate the name of the dead in his inheritance, that the name of the dead may not be cut off from among his brothers and from the gate of his native place. You are witnesses this day.” But then I had to consider the context of that time's culture. However, I also looked beyond just the setting of the culture and considered the purpose of Boaz in purchasing Ruth. He wasn’t purchasing Ruth to bind/control her but to bring her freedom. He was purchasing her to offer freedom from the lack she was experiencing so she could enjoy plenty. Freedom from her toil so she could rest from labor. Freedom from fear because he would now protect her. Jesus also purchased us and offered freedom! A freedom from fear, lack, sin, and even death. He offers us an abundant life (John 10:10 paraphrased ESV).

How has Christ’s purchase of you, with his precious blood, brought your freedom?

What are some specific ways you have found freedom in Christ? How does the reality that Christ purchased you at a price encourage you to seek freedom over sin?

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