Faith Talk – February 22, 2026

Title: The Masterplan of a Mother-in-Law

Scripture: Ruth 3:1–18

Overview: In Ruth 3, Naomi creates a bold plan to secure rest and redemption for Ruth through Boaz, their kinsman-redeemer. Ruth follows Naomi’s counsel with courage and humility, appealing to Boaz for protection and redemption. Boaz responds with integrity and honor, though an obstacle remains. The chapter highlights wise counsel, patient trust, and God’s sovereign work behind the scenes to accomplish redemption.

Main Points:

• The Proposal – Naomi lovingly guides Ruth toward rest and provision.
• The Plot – Ruth obeys with courage and careful timing.
• The Plea – Ruth asks to be taken under Boaz’s wing as her redeemer.
• The Plan – Boaz commits to act, though an obstacle must be resolved.
• The Pursuit – Redemption moves forward with urgency and faith.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• Why did Naomi want to help Ruth find a husband?
• What does it mean that Boaz was a “family redeemer”?
• Who are some people God gives you to help guide and encourage you?

For Students & Adults

• How does Naomi’s role show the importance of wise, godly counsel?
• What risks did Ruth take in chapter 3? What does that teach us about faith?
• Where do you currently need to trust God while waiting for Him to resolve something?

Application: Who has God placed in your life to guide you — and who might He be calling you to guide or encourage this week?

Scripture: Malachi 1–4

Christ/Gospel Connections:
All of Scripture points back to Jesus. In our study each week, every age group’s lesson includes a note about how the message connects to Christ. Use these Christ/Gospel Connections as a springboard for meaningful discussion about who Jesus is and what He has done for us.

Preschool – Malachi told everyone that another messenger, John the Baptist, would come to get people ready for Jesus, God’s Son, who came to save people from their sins.

Kids – Malachi told the people to turn away from sin as they looked forward to the promised Messiah. Years later, God sent John the Baptist to prepare the way for Jesus—the Messiah. Jesus brought a message of repentance and salvation.

Students – Though Malachi, God promised a Messenger—Jesus—who would purify His people. Through His blood and sacrifice, Jesus purifies us, making us right with God because of His righteousness.

Adults – Though those who trust in Jesus are in right standing with God the Father because of Christ and are being sanctified daily by the Holy Spirit, when Christ returns, He will purify us completely, finishing our sanctification process as He finally establishes His kingdom on earth.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• What does it mean to turn away from sin?
• Why did God send John the Baptist before Jesus?
• How does Jesus make our hearts clean?

For Students & Adults

• What does purification look like in the life of a believer?
• Why is it good news that God will both judge evil and purify His people?
• How does knowing Christ will return shape the way you live today?