Read Ruth 2:14-20.
A Secret Kindness
“And let fall also some of the handfuls of purpose for her, and leave them, that she may glean them, and rebuke her not” (v. 16).
I remember the first time someone prayed this prayer for me: “And dear Lord, please drop some handfuls of purpose into her life today.” At first, I didn’t quite know what the phrase “handfuls of purpose” (also “handfuls on purpose”) meant. After a bit of research, I quickly fell in love with the concept. My friend had prayed that God would sprinkle some small extra blessings into my day— unexpected signs that He sees, cares, provides, and loves me.
If I’m not careful, I lose sight of how often God does this and miss it entirely. I barely give these “handfuls of purpose” cursory side glances in the hurried rush of life's busyness and to-do lists. What comfort I could gain if I were more alert to these moments!
Friend, are you catching the “handfuls of purpose” God is dropping into your everyday life? Did you witness last night’s fabulous sunset or this morning’s blush-pink sky?
Did you hear that birdsong just outside your window or wonder at the iridescence on a soap bubble? Did your friend’s encouraging text seem random or impromptu? Did that pay raise come at just the right time? I don’t know what God might do for you today, but stay alert. Boaz isn’t the only one who showers people with quiet kindness. He learned from the One who does it best. (SW)
Multitudes of precious blessings Every moment round me spread;
Blessings from my heav’nly Father Showered down upon my head.
--- H. H. Green
