When someone was in trouble, danger, or in dire need during biblical times, a male relative could step in and "redeem" them. This relative was called a "kinsmen redeemer." They could step in and pay off their debts, buy back their property, and set them free from indentured servitude.

A great example of this is in the book of Ruth. Both Ruth and her mother-in-law Naomi were widows living penniless, gleaning left behind wheat in the fields to eat. Then a wealthy relative named Boaz stepped up and took them in. Ruth suddenly went from having nothing to having it all. Though Ruth was a Moabitess, she became King David's great-grandmother and is listed in the lineage of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:5).

The Lord is often mentioned as a Redeemer in the Bible. The word Redeem means: to save, compensate for the defects of, vindicate. In this light, the Lord wants to:
- (Save) Rescue you and keep you safe from danger.
- Compensate for your defects and make you a better person.
- (Vindicate) Clear you of all blame.

Jesus Christ became our Redeemer. He stepped in and laid down His own life for us. He paid the debt we couldn't pay. Jesus chose the church as His bride, just as Boaz chose Ruth. So leave yesterday behind and let the Lord guide you from this day on. Your past is in the past, and your future is now a bright one. Don't look back.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I thank You so much for redeeming me. Lord, I want all that You have for me in this life. Please lead me and teach me the things that I should know. Let me hear You clearly. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen!

Note: Today is Thankful Thursday at the Ministry Events group! This event gives us an opportunity encourage each other by posting thoughts, moments, and prayers of gratitude for Him, His creation and all that He does in our lives. All our welcome! To join, just click on the group name and then the join link on the page that will follow. As always, if you have a prayer need, we are here for you! We and the prayer team are ready to lift you up at our private prayer page: RHM Prayer Network.