TGIF :)
We already know that Ruth showed devotion to Naomi not knowing what the future would hold. Even Naomi tells her, “Return home, my daughters. Why would you come with me? Am I going to have any more sons, who could become your husbands? Return home, my daughters; I am too old to have another husband. Even if I thought there was still hope for me—even if I had a husband tonight and then gave birth to sons— would you wait until they grew up? Would you remain unmarried for them? No, my daughters..."
In other words, Ruth had very little to gain by staying with Naomi.
Yet God was about to bless Ruth beyond her wildest dreams because of her faithfulness. First principle of the day: God blesses those who are faithful in their relationships.
A love story will soon unfold between Ruth and Boaz, and Naomi plays a significant role by helping Ruth navigate the tricky waters of the dating game. Second principle of the day: Older women and men sometimes really do know best. We have been there/done that, and as a result of our own life experiences we can help all you beautiful guys and gals avoid some of the pitfalls of relationships.
Naomi had expressed her desire for Ruth, which was, "My daughter, shall I not seek security for you, that it may be well with you?" Naomi was talking specifically about marriage, and chapter three in the book of Ruth is all about Naomi mentoring Ruth with good advice that would lead to marriage.
I love what Naomi says in this verse. A marriage to the right person leads to your well-being and provides security. It provides financial, sexual, relational, emotional, physical, and yes, even spiritual security. Given what's at stake we should all be seriously praying right now for our kids or even for those of us who are single to marry the right person. Yes, God can send a Boaz or a Ruth for us, and the book of Ruth exists to give us hope. But we have to do our part, which is the third principle of the day: Be willing to follow the advice of wiser people. What good is it to listen and then not follow through? For all you young'uns living at home, if mom or dad does not like the person you are dating, ask yourself, "Why?"
I will be the first to admit that the dynamic of the family has changed--so much so that not all of us have a mom or dad in our lives to guide us along. Please keep in mind that Naomi was Ruth's mother-in-law. It was not your standard husband, wife, two kids and a dog unit. Our Lord is telling us that the traditional definition of family is not the only source for our guidance. Amen to that! What is important is having a mutually loving and respectful relationship period, and I have seen that among friends, church family, next-door-neighbors, grandparents/grandkids, and even colleagues.
Next week we will still be on this topic as we see the fruit of Naomi and Ruth's relationship, which is principle of the day number four: A good and trusting relationship with a wise person is a great resource when considering dating and marriage.
PRAYER:
Dear Lord, Relationships can be a blessing if we follow the great guidelines You provide for dating and marriage. Help open our eyes to Your wisdom so we make good decisions. We all want security and well-being for ourselves and our children. In Jesus' name, AMEN~
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