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PROVIDENCE, RELATIONSHIPS AND MARRIAGE (4)
TUESDAY, AUGUST 27
Ruth 4:1-10

1 Corinthians 7:17-24

 

“…let every man,
wherein he is called,

therein abide with God.”

 

PROVIDENCE, RELATIONSHIPS AND MARRIAGE (4)
 
As Boaz advertised the parcel of land that Naomi was selling to the nearer kin, he not only informed him about the sale and the kinsman’s priority in redeeming the land, he also clearly stated his desire and intent to redeem it if the nearer kinsman did not wish to do so. There is nothing wrong with having interest in matters that are lawful. It is good to have desires, but it is important to handle matters properly and be careful to control our desires and ambitions. In his addressing of the nearer kin, he did not withhold or distort the facts, and all was done in the presence of the elders of the city as witnesses.
 
“…And he said, I will redeem it” (Ruth 4:4). The initial response of the nearer kin upon hearing the matter was one of willingness to redeem the land. But his response was one that was not well thought out. He had not considered all the requirements of the law and his desire was not governed by God’s will and law. How often, like this man, do we jump to conclusions and make decisions on matters of life, relationships and marriage, thinking only of the temporal and temporary good? Once the decision is made, the consequences must be borne. Therefore it is important that the decisions we make are not rash ones, but are well thought out and weighed, and done with full knowledge and willingness to bear the consequences that come with it.
 
“…thou must buy it also of Ruth the Moabitess, the wife of the dead, to raise up the name of the dead upon his inheritance” (Ruth 4:5). Another lesson we may draw from this is: just because the law permits and allows us something, it does not mean we must do it. This is especially so in marriage and relationships. Just because marriage is honourable and is instituted by God, does not mean every person must marry or be married. Every man has his gift from God, and marriage comes with responsibilities. You cannot choose to marry and reject the duties, roles, and responsibilities that come with marriage. The kinsman could not choose to redeem the land and not raise up a seed for the dead brother.
 
THOUGHT: Duties cannot be fulfilled in part, but fully.

PRAYER: Help me, Father, to embrace my roles fully and joyfully.

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