Acts of Kindness: Ruth & Boaz

Summary

The Jesus Podcast — "Acts of Kindness: Ruth & Boaz"

Host: Ethan (Pray.com)
Release Date: July 14, 2026

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Episode Overview

This episode of The Jesus Podcast explores the theme of hidden kindness and genuine generosity through the teachings of Jesus on the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 6:1–4) and the biblical story of Ruth and Boaz (Ruth 2). The narrative intertwines Jesus’s call to practice righteousness without seeking human applause with the lived example of Boaz’s kindness to Ruth, a destitute foreigner. Listeners are inspired to cultivate selfless, humble acts of kindness and to value the reward that comes from God alone.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Introduction — The Call to Authenticity

• Opening Prayer (00:00–02:57): The episode begins with a prayer for sincerity in charitable acts, humility, and the quiet strength to do good for God’s approval rather than public recognition.

  • Quote: “Teach us the quiet strength of humility that we may find joy in unseen sacrifices and secret acts of kindness, knowing that you see all and reward what is done in secret.” (Narrator, 01:13)

• Jesus Teaches on the Mount (02:57–03:43):

  • Jesus warns against performing righteous deeds or charity for the sake of being seen by others.
  • Quote: “Do not do righteous deeds or offer gifts of charity to be seen by men. You may lose your reward from your Father in heaven.” (Host/Ethan, 02:57)

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2. The Biblical Story — Ruth’s Devotion and Boaz’s Kindness

Ruth’s Hardship and Hope

• Ruth’s Despair and Perseverance (07:21–15:04):
  • Ruth, a Moabite widow, stays loyal to her mother-in-law Naomi, facing poverty and alienation.
  • Quote: “Where is this redemption I’ve heard of? Do you even see me?” (Ruth, 14:48 and 15:04)
  • Ruth’s vulnerability is highlighted as she prays for deliverance amidst exhaustion.

Encounter in the Fields

• Cultural Laws of Kindness (09:24–09:47):

  • Naomi explains the Mosaic law requiring landowners to allow the needy to glean the corners of their fields—a radical, countercultural act of kindness.

• Facing Humiliation (11:21–12:18):

  • Ruth is mocked and harassed by field workers but maintains her dignity.
  • Quote: “Shame, shame. Such a beautiful flower can wilt if left in the sun too long.” (Host/Ethan as a young worker, 11:36)

Boaz Enters: Generosity Personified

• Boaz’s Introduction and Protection (16:29–20:32):

  • Boaz, the field owner, brings food to his workers, notices Ruth’s hard work, and inquires about her.
  • He rebukes his workers for harassing women and commands special protection for Ruth.
  • Quote: “You shall not harass these daughters of the Lord. They are not your playthings. They are precious and worthy of honor. Am I understood?” (Boaz/Ethan, 19:48)

• A Radical Act of Kindness (21:43–25:21):

  • Boaz greets Ruth warmly, assists her physically, and invites her to community meals.
  • Ruth is overwhelmed by undeserved kindness.
  • Quote: “Why are you being so kind to me? You don’t know me. I am a foreigner. Why are you treating me like this?” (Ruth, 25:13)

• Boaz’s Response (26:12–27:00):

  • Boaz affirms Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi and promises God’s blessing, reinforcing kindness without ulterior motive.
  • Quote: “You deserve to be honored for what you’ve done, not rejected. You deserve treasure, not teasing. The Lord is with you, Ruth.” (Boaz/Ethan, 26:12)

Restoration of Community

• Ruth Integrated (27:27–30:27):
  • Ruth is welcomed by the workers, experiences provision, and her hope is rekindled.
  • Boaz ensures Ruth receives extra grain and continued protection, deepening the ripple of kindness.

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3. Teachings and Application

Jesus’s Principle Revisited

• Reflection on Matthew 6:1–4 (30:58–32:00):
  • Reemphasis that acts of righteousness should be practiced in secret.
  • Quote: “When you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing...your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you.” (Host/Ethan paraphrasing Jesus, 30:58)

Practical Wisdom for Listeners

• Selfless Acts and Compounding Generosity:

  • True kindness asks for no return—seen in both Ruth and Boaz.
  • Generosity multiplies, influencing future generations (lineage of David, leading to Jesus).

• Kindness Honors God and Builds Community:

  • Unseen acts reflect God’s heart and foster a sense of belonging.

• How to Cultivate Kindness (34:00–end):

  • Practice giving in secret.
  • Trust God’s timing for rewards.
  • Build a habit of encouragement—give compliments and affirmation freely.
  • Quote: “We all want to be recognized for our good deeds...we want to be known as good people more than we want to be good people. That’s why we need transformed hearts.” (Host/Ethan, 33:00)

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Memorable Quotes & Moments

• On Humility:
  “Help us remember that we seek not the applause of men, but the quiet affirmation of our Father who sees in secret.” (Narrator, 01:40)

• On Selfless Kindness:
  “He didn’t want anything from her. He didn’t expect any reciprocity or gesture. He was simply and purely kind.” (Narrator, 25:21)

• On God’s Reward:
  “Trust that your selfless acts of kindness will have a lasting impact even if you don’t see immediate results.” (Host/Ethan, 34:40)

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Important Timestamps

• 00:00–02:57: Opening prayer and intro on authenticity in faith
• 02:57–03:43: Jesus’s teaching on secret acts of kindness
• 07:21–15:04: Ruth’s hardship, determination, and prayer for redemption
• 16:29–20:32: Boaz’s arrival, protection, and rebuke of improper behavior
• 21:43–27:27: Boaz’s generosity and Ruth’s emotional response
• 30:58–34:00: Connection to Jesus’s teaching and practical applications

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Closing Takeaways

The episode beautifully weaves the Gospel’s message of selfless, secret acts of kindness with the narrative of Ruth and Boaz, encouraging listeners to live out hidden generosity in daily life. The teaching resonates with the need to honor God above human approval and invites listeners to trust in the unseen rewards and multiplying effects of hidden acts of love.

Challenge for Listeners:
Practice an act of kindness this week with no expectation of recognition, trusting that God sees and rewards what is done in secret.

Transcript

[Narrator]

Be careful that you don't do your charitable giving before men to be seen by them, or else you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 6:1 Dear Lord, we come before you with a desire for authenticity in our faith. Strip away any pretense from our actions and purify our motives when we serve, give or pray. We want sincere devotion to you, not in pursuit of approval. Teach us the quiet strength of humility that we may find joy in unseen sacrifices and secret acts of kindness, knowing that you see all and reward what is done in secret. Help us to cherish the approval that comes from you more than the accolades that the world can offer. Remind us that true righteousness is a matter of the heart, cultivated under the watchful eyes of you alone. Grant us the wisdom to navigate the fine line between living as a light in the world and seeking attention for our deeds. May our lives be transparent reflections of your love and grace, influencing others not by our glory, but by yours, visible in the humble, genuine expressions of our faith in the pursuit of a life lived well for your glory. Help us remember that we seek not the applause of men, but the quiet affirmation of our Father who sees in secret. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen. Thank you for praying with me today. This is the Jesus Podcast. Remain here for a story of humble devotion and pure love inspired by the Sermon on the Mount. If you're wondering how to partner with us in this series, you can share, rate and review this podcast. These small steps go a long way. Thank you for making the mission possible. Jesus continued to preach on the Mount. People were enraptured by the way he preached with authority, but didn't come off as arrogant or pompous. He had a gentle spirit, but power behind every word turned his head to some of the temple leaders. They were artists of religious flair. He held up a finger in warning.

[Host (Ethan)]

Be mindful, friends. Do not do righteous deeds or offer gifts of charity to be seen by men. You may lose your reward from your Father in heaven when you do merciful deeds or acts of kindness, don't make it a performance. Don't sound the trumpet when you give your offering, and don't advertise your good

[Narrator]

deeds after doing them. If you seek glory from men, you'll

[Host (Ethan)]

get it, but it will come at the cost of God's favor. When you do good deeds, don't let your right hand know what your left is doing. Practice kindness and mercy in secret. Your Heavenly Father, who sees in secret, will reward you openly.

[Narrator]

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[Host (Ethan)]

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[Narrator]

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[Host (Ethan)]

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[Host (Ethan)]

Kindness begets kindness. Generosity opens doors that would have been locked before. When you choose the way of Jesus, you'll find that more paths to peace open up to you. This is the Jesus Podcast. I'm Ethan with Pray.com join us as we continue our mini series through the Sermon on the Mount. We've been connecting biblical stories to the Gospel message of Jesus spoken on the Sermon on the Mount. Today we delve into a profound teaching from Jesus. Sermon on the mount found in Matthew, chapter 6, verses 1 through 4. This passage addresses the importance of practicing kindness and generosity in a way that honors God rather than seeking human recognition. We'll connect this teaching to the story of Boaz's generosity to Ruth in Ruth Chapter two, highlighting how kindness and generosity multiply when given freely and without expectation of return. Together we'll explore how to embody these values in our own lives.

[Narrator]

Ruth stepped outside and breathed in the cool autumn air. The morning invited her with the smell of barley and fresh fallen rain. The sun was rising over the fields in the distance, splashing the sky with hues of orange and yellow. Each cloud that passed captured the sunrise within itself. They were like floating wisps of flame lighting up the morning sky. The sight warmed Ruth's heart for a brief moment. She turned her cheek to the light and closed her eyes. The warmth of the sun's rays was a pleasant respite after a cold and unforgiving night. She had spent most of the night covering Naomi with blankets and stoking the fire. It was a never ending fight to keep her hope alive. Ruth had lost everything her home, her husband, her future. But she remained devoted to her mother in law, Naomi. Her loyalty to Naomi was like an ember of optimism. All it needed was a little wind to make it rise. Yet despite all the tragedy Ruth had endured, she tried to approach each day with quiet optimism. As the light appeared over the horizon, so did new opportunities.

[Ruth]

I'm going out to search for food. Perhaps there are some roots I can dig up in the hills.

[Narrator]

Naomi wasn't quite as chipper that morning. She quietly sipped a cup of hot water and peered up at Ruth.

[Ruth]

Come here, child.

[Narrator]

Ruth sat at her side and the two stared blankly at the fire. Naomi squeezed Ruth's hand in appreciation.

[Ruth]

There is a custom here in Israel established by the law of Moses. Farmers must allow the poor and needy to reap from the corners of their fields. Since it is harvest time, you will be allowed to work for your food.

[Narrator]

Ruth was shocked by the mere idea. In Moab, the concept of poor people receiving that type of generosity was unheard of.

[Ruth]

What kind of law is that? The law of the Lord. There are many laws protecting orphans, widows, the poor and foreigners. I suppose laws like these may be the only light source in my otherwise dark existence.

[Narrator]

Naomi's heart had become calloused. The law established by God through Moses was intricately designed to protect and preserve the richest of the rich and the poorest of the poor. When obeyed correctly, everyone was supposed to live together in unity and safety. However, not everybody obeyed God or His law. They strayed and sought after the self indulgent practices of foreign gods. That is why they found themselves in trouble so often. Nevertheless, Ruth was excited about earning food for her and Naomi. She kissed her mother in law on the cheek and ventured out into town. The vast barley field stretched down the slope toward the hill country. The sun peeked over the hills, revealing dozens of reapers already hard at. Ruth ventured down the hill towards the edge of the field. A group of young men stood by handing tools and baskets out to the edge. Reapers. Ruth approached them timidly and bowed her head.

[Ruth]

Hello. My name is Ruth. My mother in law is Naomi, wife of Elimelech. I was told I could glean at the edge of the field for food.

[Narrator]

The young men smirked at one another when they saw Ruth. They looked her up and down and chuckled.

[Host (Ethan)]

Shame, shame. Such a beautiful flower can wilt if left in the sun too long. Are you sure you want to stay out here?

[Narrator]

He lifted his hand to touch her face, but Ruth jolted her head back in disgust.

[Ruth]

I have no choice. If you don't have work, I can go somewhere else.

[Host (Ethan)]

Of course. There's Ruth room here. Having such a beautiful view while we work will be nice.

[Narrator]

Ruth cringed at the man's comments. She was embarrassed and frustrated, but her determination to work the fields kept her from walking away.

[Ruth]

If you could spare a tool in a basket, I would be very grateful.

[Host (Ethan)]

Here you are, my sweet flower.

[Narrator]

Ruth tried not to cringe at his words. The young man, clearly annoyed that Ruth was not playing his game, cleared his throat and gave her some tools.

[Host (Ethan)]

You may glean at the edges of the fields. We'll reap and leave bundles of barley on the floor. You're free to keep whatever you can glean from the bundles. That is the master's policy. Whatever you can carry, you can leave with. Understood?

[Ruth]

Yes.

[Narrator]

Ruth took her supplies and found a space to glean at the edge of the field. Dozens of young men were out in the fields, chopping away at the barley and building the sheaves. It was a beautiful operation to behold. The rudeness of the young men aside, the entire system was well run and enjoyable. The men sang, the women laughed, and a few children also helped. Ruth knelt and watched from a distance. She meticulously sorted the bundles and placed the grain into a large basket. It was monotonous work, a perfect opportunity for Ruth to let her mind wander. She thought about Malone, the farm in Moab, and the future that was taken from her. It was a continual fight for her to remain hopeful. Sweat dripped steadily from Ruth's brow and the sun seemed to remain in the sky forever. The monotonous work became intense as the heat of the day increased. All the optimism in Ruth seemed to be melting away slowly. For months she had taken care of her sick husband and now her mother in law. The whole time she had been steady and unwavering. However, as she worked in the dirt under the hot sun, she couldn't help but feel sorry for herself. Rue thought about God. She recalled the stories of redemption that Naomi had told her. It was said that God heroically saved Israel from slavery and kept them safe in the wilderness. He parted seas, destroyed armies, and sent food from the sky for his people.

[Ruth]

Where is this redemption I've heard of?

[Narrator]

Her head sank and tears began to fall from her dusty cheeks. She could not control her emotions. It had been too much.

[Ruth]

Do you even see me?

[Narrator]

Tears wet the ground underneath her and Ruth clenched her jaw. The wind shifted for a moment and Ruth felt a gentle breeze against the side of her face. It was a brief breeze, but it was the perfect pause for Ruth. She took a few deep breaths and composed herself. She looked out again at the horizon. The clouds were further away than before, escaping over the hills. She sighed and shook her head. Ruth would not stop praying for a miracle, but she would not stop working either. She wiped her tears and picked up another sheave to continue working. The coolness of the late afternoon was approaching and the young men picked up the pace to continue their work. On the side of the field opposite Ruth, they swung at the barley and bundled everything up tightly. Once the sheaves were tied up, some of the men loaded them into carts to be taken to the silos. Some of the women gleaned near the silos, while others prepared a meal for the rest of the workers. As they worked, a familiar voice shouted

[Host (Ethan)]

from the road, the Lord be with you faithful men and women riding up

[Narrator]

on a horse was the owner of the field, Boaz. He was a tall and broad man with striking features. His dark curly hair was held back in a bun and his beautiful had slight signs of gray. His most notable features, however, were his kind eyes and friendly voice. He was very endearing and had the affection of all the reapers under his care.

[Host (Ethan)]

I brought some dried figs for you to eat. Take a break and enjoy.

[Narrator]

All the young men flocked to Boaz and shared the figs. They thanked him affectionately and continued with their work. Boaz smiled and scanned the fields. Reapers were scattered across the different sections and the women sifted together near the silos. Except for one in the distance. A woman was working alone in the corner of the field. She caught Boaz's eye. He peered at her and cocked his head to the side curiously. She was beautiful, but what gripped his attention was the way she worked. He watched her carry three large baskets of barley on her back to eat sheave. Clearly she had been working for hours and it concerned Boaz that no one was helping her. He gestured to the young man who was in charge of the reapers. He pointed and asked, whose young woman is this?

[Host (Ethan)]

I do not recognize her.

[Narrator]

The young man smirked.

[Host (Ethan)]

Aha, she's new, he said with a

[Narrator]

teasing glint in his eye. Boaz gave the young man a harsh look and immediately wiped the inappropriate grin off his face. The young man cleared his throat and

[Host (Ethan)]

said, she's a daughter in law of Naomi and a widow. Rumor has it she followed her all the way here from Moab after their husbands died.

[Narrator]

Boaz stroked his beard and furrowed his brow.

[Host (Ethan)]

Now why would she do such a thing? A young woman of such beauty should have been able to marry again, especially of Moab. People talk. It seems she remained at Naomi's side to care for her.

[Narrator]

Boaz checked in with the rest of his workers while keeping a close eye on the young woman at the edge of the field. He watched one of the young men stroll to her and kneel beside her. He reached out a hand to stroke her hair, but was quickly rejected. The young man walked away frustrated. Boaz could see him mouthing curses at her as he left. Many of the young women in the field liked the attention of the younger men, but Ruth was different. Boaz did his best not to stare. He remained with his men, rolled up his sleeves and worked alongside them. Boaz interrupted the men working for a moment.

[Host (Ethan)]

Good work, my friends. Your work is worthy of honor and pleases the Lord. I know you are young and find it amusing to taunt the young women. Some of them may even play along. But let me be clear. You shall not harass these daughters of the Lord. They are not your playthings. They are precious and worthy of honor. Am I understood?

[Narrator]

The men nodded apologetically. Boaz pointed down the fields toward Ruth.

[Host (Ethan)]

I command you not to speak to that woman unless it is to help her. If you disobey me, there will be a price to pay.

[Narrator]

The men gulped and nodded again. Boaz demeanor loosened as he smiled.

[Host (Ethan)]

Thank you.

[Narrator]

Ruth's blistered hands trembled as she put the last of the grain in her third basket. The sun was still a few hours from setting, and she was determined to work until she could no longer work. The late afternoon shade was an initial blessing, but it was beginning to get cold. Ruth wrapped herself in her shawl and kept her head down. A few of the young men had come over to make passes at her, but she refused to give them the attention they were after. She loathed their teasing and was afraid that the more she resisted, the more violent they would become. That's why she sprang to her feet when she heard footsteps approaching from behind. She looked to the top of the hill. A man was standing in the distance, smiling. Ruth was ready to flee. She didn't want any more trouble from the young men. The man didn't approach her any further. He remained at a distance and waved to her.

[Host (Ethan)]

God be with you, daughter of Moab.

[Narrator]

His voice was disarming. Ruth unclenched her fists and relaxed her shoulders.

[Ruth]

Hello.

[Narrator]

She was not sure how to respond. She didn't know what this man wanted from her. His kind gaze was alluring to Ruth, and his smile was reassuring. Clearly, he meant her no harm. Ruth let her guard down and smiled back.

[Ruth]

Oh, hello. I'm Ruth. Who are you?

[Host (Ethan)]

Shalom, Ruth. I am Boaz, son of Salman. I own this field.

[Narrator]

Ruth's eyes widened. She finally realized who she was speaking to. She bowed to him in embarrassment. Her look of surprise made Boaz chuckle. He gestured for her to be at ease and smiled.

[Host (Ethan)]

Don't worry, Ruth. I know you've had a long day. May I help you with those baskets? It's nearly dusk and you'll have to carry these a long distance.

[Narrator]

Boaz approached softly and slowly. He knew that Ruth. Ruth was probably skittish from hours of being harassed by the younger men. He lifted two of the baskets with ease onto his shoulders.

[Host (Ethan)]

Come with me. There should be a warm meal waiting for us near the silos.

[Narrator]

Ruth picked up the remaining basket and followed Boaz up the trail. The sun was setting over the hills in the distance, painting the horizon in brilliant shades of purple and pink. Boaz was silent and unthreatening. He whistled while he carried the baskets. Ruth walked beside him, scanning him up and down curiously.

[Ruth]

What does he want?

[Narrator]

Ruth thought to herself. It seemed odd that the owner of the field would help one of the poor cleaners. She did not work for him. She was merely taking charity. Boaz, sensing Ruth's distrust, nodded toward the other women working in the field.

[Host (Ethan)]

These are some of the women of my household. They work the fields daily. Tomorrow, when you come to glean, do not go to the corner of the field. Instead, stay with the women. Follow them and do what they do. You will glean much more and perhaps make some friends in the process.

[Narrator]

They continued walking and passed the young men. Instead of looking at Ruth and teasing her, they kept their heads down. Ruth noticed this. Boaz gestured to them and said, I

[Host (Ethan)]

told them not to touch or come near you unless it is to help you. You are protected here, Ruth. You have nothing to fear. These young men are foolish and I apologize if they've harassed you.

[Narrator]

Ruth stopped following Boaz and dropped her basket. Some of the grain spilled onto the floor. Ruth stood over it with her head buried in her hands. The kindness of Boaz was disarming. It was the first time in months that she felt like someone was watching out for her instead of the other way around. Like a dam that was breaking, she burst with emotion. Ruth bent down to her knees and put her face in the dirt. Tears wet the earth below her.

[Ruth]

Why are you being so kind to me? You don't know me. I am a foreigner. Why are you treating me like this?

[Narrator]

Boaz didn't say anything initially. He put down the baskets and and knelt down beside her. He gently cupped the spilled grain in his hand and placed it back in the basket. Ruth's face still buried in the dirt. She was too embarrassed to look up. She could sense that there was no ulterior motive or hidden desire behind his gaze. His kindness existed independently of her. He treated everyone with kindness and generosity. He had a rare quality not in many men. He didn't want anything from her. He didn't expect any reciprocity or gesture. He was simply and purely kind.

[Host (Ethan)]

I heard about what you sacrificed for your mother in law after your husband died. I'm sure you had an opportunity to return to your family. Instead, you remained with her. That type of loyalty is worthy of praise, Ruth. You deserve to be honored for what you've done, not rejected. You deserve treasure, not teasing. The Lord is with you, Ruth.

[Narrator]

Boaz words were like a balm to Ruth's wounded soul. She drew a deep breath and composed herself.

[Ruth]

I was beginning to think the Lord hated me. Or maybe he had just forgotten about me. Oh, thank you for helping me. I am just a stranger, but you have treated me like one of your own.

[Host (Ethan)]

You are no longer a stranger, Ruth. The Lord will repay you for your kindness. What you have done for Naomi will not go unnoticed. You are in Israel, the land of God. It is under his wings. You have come to take refuge, not mine.

[Narrator]

Boaz extended a hand and helped Ruth to her feet.

[Host (Ethan)]

Come with me. There's a meal prepared for all the workers. Join us and fill your belly.

[Narrator]

Ruth nodded and pulled her hair behind her head covering. She followed Boaz up the slope to the silos. As he walked before her, Ruth couldn't help but smile. At the top of the hill was a silo. In its shadow were a few fire pits and tables for the reapers to recline and eat. Surrounding the space were torches, for when the sun set. At the edge near the silo were a few of the reapers resting on sacks of grain. Everyone was laughing and enjoying themselves. There was a sense of familial love and safety among them. The men who had teased her all day greeted her politely when she passed, and the women introduced themselves. The smell of roasted barley and freshly cooked stew wafted towards Ruth and surrounded her like a warm hug. She could not remember the last time she ate a decent meal, and her stomach was demanding her to eat. Ruth sat down with the rest of the women. Boaz blessed the Lord and then served the food along with some workers. Although Boaz was the master of the property, he he served food to everyone like a servant. He filled up bowls of roasted barley and stew and gave it to each of them. Ruth watched in amazement as he greeted each of them individually. He asked them questions about their days and listened genuinely to their answers. He was a man of the people and did not consider himself great than them just because he was their master. In a short time, Boaz had managed to captivate Ruth. She didn't pay much attention to her feelings, though she had too much to worry about. But for a brief moment she allowed herself to feel joy again. She listened to the sound of children laughing and playing near the silos. She laughed alongside the women as they told stories of their childhoods. The pain of the past few months was slowly melting away like ice in the early spring sun. The Young men and women rose from the tables to finish their work. They still had to tie up the last sheaves and store them. Ruth stood up and followed the young women, just as Boaz instructed. Before she left, she could hear Boaz talking to the head of the reapers,

[Host (Ethan)]

saying, make sure none of the men harass Ruth. I also want you to pull out some of the stored bundles for her to glean.

[Narrator]

Ruth smiled and pretended not to hear it. She was grateful beyond words, and a small ember of hope began to burn within her. Perhaps God had not forsaken her and Naomi. Perhaps there was redemption for this poor Moabite widow after all.

[Host (Ethan)]

Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets to be honored by others. Truly, I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you. Jesus emphasizes the importance of practicing acts of kindness and generosity in secret, without seeking attention or praise from others. True generosity is motivated by a desire to honor God and help others, not by a desire for recognition. When we give in secret, God who sees what is done in secret will reward us. The story of Boaz and Ruth beautifully illustrates the power of hidden kindness and generosity. Ruth, a Moabite widow, showed extraordinary kindness and devotion to her mother in law, Naomi, by leaving her own homeland to care for her. When they returned to Bethlehem, Ruth went to glean in the fields to provide for them. Ruth had radical kindness and devotion, the kind that walked hundreds of miles and endured pressure and discomfort. In Ruth Chapter two, we also read about Boaz's generosity. Boaz's kindness to Ruth was not motivated by a desire for recognition, reward, or some ulterior motive. He saw her need and responded with generosity and protection, ensuring her safety and provision. Their relationship was not romantic at first. Boaz's kindness sprang forth from a place of devotion to his God and a desire to see others thrive. Ruth's own kindness and loyalty to Naomi were similarly selfless, born out of love and devotion. Let's explore a little bit more about what kindness looks like and how its effect multiplies in the lives of others. Ruth's own kindness and loyalty to Naomi were similarly selfless born out of love and devotion. Let's explore a little more about what kindness looks like and how its effect multiplies in the lives of others. First, it looks like selfless acts. Ruth's devotion to Naomi and Boaz's generosity to Ruth were selfless acts. They didn't seek anything in return, but were motivated by compassion and love. This kind of kindness reflects the heart of God. Those who live with an I'll scratch your back if you scratch mine mentality may build a large network of people. But when they're unable to bring anything to the table, those friends disappear quickly. Next, it looks like compounding generosity. Boaz's kindness had a ripple effect, leading to further blessings. Ruth's hard work and Boaz's generosity eventually led to their marriage, securing a future for Naomi and Ruth and continuing the lineage that would lead to King David and ultimately to Jesus. Kindness and generosity leave a legacy. They multiply beyond us in ways we would have never imagined. Kindness also always honors God. When we practice kindness and generosity in secret, we honor God. Our actions become a reflection of his love and grace, impacting others in profound ways. Finally, kindness and generosity build community. Hidden acts of kindness build trust and strengthen community bonds. Boaz's generosity created a safe and supportive environment for his workers. Ruth was grafted into that community. Kindness and giving freely foster a sense of belonging to care. So what are some practical ways we can cultivate kindness and generosity in our lives? Like a well tended garden, we can carefully and diligently take care of our hearts to ensure kindness and generosity grow naturally in us. First, practice giving in secret. Follow Jesus teaching by practicing acts of kindness and generosity without seeking attention. Find joy in giving quietly, knowing that God sees and rewards what is done in secret. This is often the hardest step for people. We all want to be recognized for our good deeds. A while ago, people were surveyed and asked if they would rather always do the right thing or simply have people think that they always did the right thing. In this anonymous survey, most people said that they would rather people think they always did the right thing. This shows our hearts. We want to be known as good people more than we want to be good people. That's why we need transformed hearts submitted to Jesus willing to embrace humility. Sometimes the only way to cultivate this type of humility is to do it until it no longer becomes uncomfortable. Next, trust God's reward. Believe that God who sees your hidden acts will reward you in his time and way. Trust that your selfless acts of kindness will have a lasting impact Even if you don't see immediate results, don't succumb to impatience and try to speed things up. Like flowers in a garden need time to grow. So do heavenly rewards. Lastly, build a habit of encouraging others. How often do you give unprompted praise for the work someone else is doing? When was the last time you gave someone a compliment without expecting them to compliment you back? Have you taken time to let your spouse, your children, your roommate, your parents or your siblings know how much they mean to you? Be a source of encouragement in people's lives and watch kindness and generosity flow from them to you as well. As we reflect on Jesus words in Matthew, Chapter six, verses one through four and the story of Boaz generosity to Ruth, let us be reminded of the power of hidden kindness and generosity. May we strive to practice selfless acts of love motivated by compassion and by a desire to honor God. Let us trust in the multiplying effect of our generosity, knowing that God sees and rewards what is done in secret. Let us pray for the grace and the wisdom to be true citizens of heaven, living out the hidden kindness and generosity that Jesus calls us to.