Do you know how to bless others with your words? Do you know how to receive a blessing from others? These simple graces are far too rare. Here we have a wonderful example. First, take a look at what Boaz says.

“May the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge, reward you fully for what you have done.”

Boaz recognizes in Ruth the character God seeks and rewards. He sees what God sees and says so. How many people in our lives would stand taller and walk straighter if we openly acknowledged their growth, development, and reflection of God’s nature?

Second, look at how Ruth responds.

“I hope I continue to please you, sir,” she replied. “You have comforted me by speaking so kindly to me, even though I am not one of your workers.”

Her way of life has been noticed and openly acknowledged. She feels rewarded, strengthened, and grateful. 

Each side of this short conversation is worth translating into our habits of heart and mind. 

Learn to give blessings. Speak specially chosen words of edification (Ephesians 4:29). Declare truth. Emphasize character. Anticipate a special future.

Learn to receive blessings. Declare your intention to continue along the trajectory of living a life that honors God. Emphasize the kindness of the compliment. Anticipate continuing mutual encouragement.

Years ago, two family friends named Jim and Shirley stepped in and provide our family with unanticipated, and most welcome, kindness. Choosing how to respond was a challenge. I stumbled over my attempt. It was an awkward moment. Shirley taught me an important lesson when she stopped my blather by saying, “Just say ‘Thank you.’”

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I will speak edifying words and respond to edification with gratitude.

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Our Father, thank you for words of affirmation that declare how we are becoming who we need to be. Thank you for the time and effort people make in noticing when we do something right and emphasize the meaning of that behavior. Thank you for how those people strengthen us for living into our best next steps. Empower us to bless others with the power of words fitly spoken (Proverbs 25:11). Teach us how to express gratitude with focused simplicity. Amen.