Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Unfailing Relationships

Today there are many books, websites, and standards that people use for help on dating and finding the right partner. While not all these materials are bad, does God have an example in the Bible for Christians? Yes, being the wise Father that He is, God had given us many examples. In the book of Ruth we uncover a love story of hardships and devotion. By observing Ruth's relationships, we can see that God surely has a will in how we pursue a spouse.

First and foremost, she had a secure relationship with God. She set everything aside to do what she knew to be right, even if it appeared far from her own desires. She trusted God. She followed Him to a new home, sought out a lowly job, and worked with integrity. She was not idle with what God placed before her, whether great or small. When steadfast with the Lord, she would always have a path worth persevering.

Her self-denying relationships with others was also essential in this love story. First of all she was willing to leave those she grew up with because of their wickedness. Then she committed her unknown future to abide with her unpleasant mother-in-law. Despite her situation, she did not inquire after the field men working near her. She obeyed her mother's counsel without question, and bravely explained to the master of the fields, Boaz. Her relationships with others reflected her relationship with God –and Boaz saw this.

In the end, she had an unbreakable relationship with the right man. Because of her quiet submission to God, the Lord was able to give Boaz full knowledge of her godly testimony. She expressed her circumstances to him with all honesty. Boaz, encouraged by her faith, responded with much generosity. He also was honest, and promised her that he would settle the inheritance with whom it was due, depending on God for results.

Truly, Ruth's virtuous relationships were instrumental in God's purposes of a new companion. Losing her first husband, choosing to serve her mother-in-law, and long, uncertain months in the fields could not prevent God's will; but rather, they accomplished it. God not only helped her find the right man, but He also helped her in building a relationship with him all the way. God promises to do the same for you.



And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28

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