The rip-roaring romance between Ruth and Boaz is but a shadow of the mutual love between Christ and his church. Yet, it does contain many instructive lessons for anyone seeking a similarly beautiful and successful romance. Or healthy relationships of any kind. The chief lesson we learn from both Ruth and Boaz is this: we do not seek God in order to obtain his blessings, but rather we seek God as the greatest treasure of all. Every other blessing is the overflow of knowing God and centering our life in his will.
As we consider the story of Ruth and Boaz, then, three important lessons emerge:
1) Be the man or woman you ought to be, for God’s sake.
Point to ponder: God will not be a bonus blessing or optional add-on — he insists on being at the center of our universe.
Question to consider: If we seek God as a side-benefit to some other goal, what happens if we don’t obtain that goal?
2) Listen to wise counselors, and take appropriate steps for success.
Point to ponder: Though we must ultimately wait on God’s wisdom and timing, it is appropriate to act wisely even as we await an answer to prayer.
Question to consider: If you are in a period of waiting right now, is there a godly mentor from whom you could get advise? Are there any steps you can take in the way of preparation as you wait?
3) Only trust yourself to a man or woman who is trusting in God.
Point to ponder: When we come to Christ by faith, we are saying, “Will you be God’s great instrument of love and nurturing for me?”
Question to consider: Are you trusting yourself to Christ’s protection and provision, or are you looking elsewhere for safety and security?