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PROVIDENCE, CHOICES, AND FAMILY LIFE (15)
LORD’S DAY, AUGUST 18
Ruth 3:14-18

1 Thessalonians 5:12-22

 

“Abstain from all appearance of evil.”

 

PROVIDENCE, CHOICES, AND FAMILY LIFE (15)
 
When morning came, Boaz had one last charge for Ruth before she left. The charge addressed the nature of the mission before him. Normally, something publicised draws reactions and interests that are varied. Some of the reactions and interests generate work against justice and truth, and seek to hinder God’s will. Hence at times, there is a need for confidentiality in matters that can generate interest that may subvert truth and justice.
 
“…Let it not be known that a woman came into the floor” (Ruth 3:14). Boaz allowed Ruth to lie at his feet till morning, because upon hearing her request, he was convinced that there was no malice or ill intent on her part. He knew that their conversation was also wholesome and edifying, and the request was lawful and according to God’s ordinances. But he did not know how others would construe what had happened and how men would spin it. Therefore, just as the Bible exhorts in matters that are optional and not sinful, “let not then your good be evil spoken of ” (Rom 14:16), he gave Ruth the charge that would help deny opportunity to gainsayers to misinterpret or misconstrue what had happened.
 
Care had to be taken here to ensure that no falsehood, division or dissimulation was involved. Care also has to be taken to ensure that we cut off any occasion that may bring reproach to the name of Christ, or hinder the will and work of God. Like Samuel finding a way to go and anoint David after the rejection of Saul as king, and ensuring that his concerns were covered, so did Boaz ensure that the just cause of Ruth was not hampered by undue and unfounded suspicion or interference due to the knowledge of her visit to the threshing floor. The instruction of Christ to His disciples gives good wisdom to us: “be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves” (Matt 10:16).
 
THOUGHT: (Read Psalm 112:5 and Proverbs 11:22.)

PRAYER: Grant, Father, that I may maintain discretion and knowledge.

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