These Six Ephahs of Barley He Gave Me; for He Said, “Do Not Go Empty-Handed to Your Mother-in-Law.”

Boaz was a mighty man, not just because he was rich in earthly goods, but mostly because he was a prudent man. He realized that Naomi was behind all this with her good advice, and that Ruth was obligated to her.

Paul says, “If we have sown spiritual things for you, is it a great thing if we reap your material things?” 1 Cor. 9:11.

Naomi had sown spiritual goods into Ruth’s heart so that she was now sufficiently suited and wise to become the mighty man’s wife—he who possessed the field as well as the heap of grain. Was it then too much that she took these six ephahs of barley with her? I know of spiritual fathers in Christ who have not only imparted spiritual goods to their children, but have also given them material goods. May God reward such faithful laborers with a rich harvest in the eternal habitations.

There are more than a few spiritual children who are so crippled in their understanding that they let themselves be served year after year, and they receive plenty of spiritual goods; yet it never occurs to them to open their hearts and hands to give of their earthly goods. He who receives spiritual goods is quite simply obligated to give of his earthly goods. However, if the man or woman who helps you does not want to receive your gift because he either does not need it or does not want it, then in God’s name give it to someone who needs it, for we will always have the poor among us.

We should also remember the person who assisted us when we were converted. He has sown of his spiritual goods into you. Therefore remember him with your earthly goods—if you have any. If he does not need it, then show your thankfulness to God and him in another way.

Instead of showing thankfulness, we see many spiritual children who increase in their own strength, even to the point where they think they can instruct their fathers in Christ. However, that wisdom is not from God; therefore it will not stand.