RPG Adults
PROVIDENCE, RELATIONSHIPS AND MARRIAGE (11)
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3
Ruth 4:1-10
Ephesians 5:21-29
“Submitting yourselves
one to another
in the fear of God.”
PROVIDENCE, RELATIONSHIPS AND MARRIAGE (11)
Marriage entails much. Boaz, in making his choice, considered not only the character and virtue of Ruth, but also the burden and responsibilities he was to bear. In his interactions with Ruth beginning at Ruth chapter 2, he had repeatedly acknowledged her virtue and spirituality, which is an important consideration in marriage. Here in Ruth chapter 4, he publicly proclaimed and acknowledged his responsibility as he took on the duty of the kinsman-redeemer.
“…to raise up the name of the dead upon his inheritance…” (Ruth 4:10). The man, who enters into a relationship not prepared to take up the responsibilities and duties that come with the relationship, is one who sets himself up for misery and heartache. Though Boaz had the opportunity to marry Ruth whom he had held in high regard, he was conscious that there was a duty to be performed before God. Though he anticipated a happy life with her, his happiness was not the only factor or motive in marrying Ruth, neither was he motivated by the amassing of wealth by adding to himself the property that belonged to Elimelech. He made known to the witnesses that he was conscious of the responsibilities and duties placed upon him by the Law of God, and he was willing to accomplish all that God had set forth for him by virtue of being the kinsman-redeemer.
Many marriages which struggle, and relationships which falter, have one indicative factor in common: spouses who are not doing their part, and are not ready to do their part before their spouses do their part. The common complaint at many counselling sessions is: “How does he expect me to obey him when he does not love me. Let him love me first, then I will obey.” And the spouse would respond: “How do you love someone who does not respect you? If she wants me to love her then she should respect and submit to me.” When Boaz spoke before the elders, he did not speak of what Ruth was to do, but rather testified of the duty he bore and spoke of his resolve to do his part.
THOUGHT: When I believe God’s Word, I focus on my duty.
PRAYER: Give me grace, Father, to use Thy Word to assess myself.