Matthew Henry Commentary Ruth 2:1-3

"And Naomi had a kinsman of her husband`s, a mighty man of wealth, of the family of Elimelech, and his name was Boaz. And Ruth the Moabitess said unto Naomi, Let me now go to the field, and glean among the ears of grain after him in whose sight I shall find favor. And she said unto her, Go, my daughter. And she went, and came and gleaned in the field after the reapers: and her hap was to light on the portion of the field belonging unto Boaz, who was of the family of Elimelech." — Ruth 2:1-3 (ASV)

Observe Ruth's humility. When Providence had made her poor, she cheerfully stoops to her lot. Proud individuals would rather starve than stoop; but not Ruth. Indeed, it was her own proposal. She speaks humbly in her expectation of permission to glean.

We should not demand kindness as a debt, but ask for it and receive it as a favor, even in a small matter. Ruth also was an example of industry. She did not like to eat the bread of idleness.

This is an example for young people. Diligence holds good promise, both for this world and the next. We must not shy away from any honest employment. No labor is a disgrace. Sin is beneath us, but we must not think that anything else to which Providence calls us is also beneath us.

She was an example of regard for her mother and of trust in Providence. God wisely orders events that seem small to us; and those that appear entirely uncertain are nevertheless directed to serve his own glory and the good of his people.