Tuesday, February 23, 2016

For Widows Who Want to Remarry---Reason #8 Why the Book of Ruth Is for Widows

The Book of Ruth shows the virtues to build while single. Virtues like patience, trust, gratitude, humility, respect, abstinence, perserverance and prayer...things that every Christian should strive for but widows get to exercise them all in this particular trial called bereavement.

But what about remarriage? Does Ruth reveal especially good traits to look for in a man?

The answer is YES! Let me list the qualities I saw in Boaz, the man who married Ruth. These might not be all the qualities of a great husband but they helped me know that Tom was right for me when I met him. I'm glad Tom decided I was right for him too!

The following list is from chapter 15 of my book, Postcards from the Widows' Path. This chapter also tells about the weirdest week of my life and further explains the character qualities, but I think you can benefit from this brief list too.
  • Boaz put God first
  • He appreciated and understood Ruth's actions and character
  • He was sensitive to Ruth's possible fears
  • He didn't make promises he couldn't keep
  • He was concerned for Ruth's safety and reputation
  • He was generous and well-mannered
  • He was comfortable and accepting of Ruth's strength
  • He didn't procrastinate
  • He was financially secure
However, it's not all about the man! Ruth equalled Boaz in virtue (Ruth 3:11); they were a matched set! So, ladies, please don't imagine Ruth was a helpless princess waiting around for her knight in shining armor to come to her rescue.

It's not all about the two lovers either! Ruth never would have met and married Boaz without working in the barley field and listening to the promptings of her friend and mother-in-law Naomi. I myself would have never met and married Tom without some effort and the promptings of my friend Laura. God's plans come to fruition in the community of God's people, not in isolation.
Ask yourself these questions:
  • Ruth worked in a barley field----where do I work, volunteer, worship, learn and fellowship? Where can I venture today to meet new people and enrich my life?
  • Ruth listened to Naomi---who is my Naomi? Who's wise? Who knows me and wants what's best for me? To whom can I be a friend like Naomi?
If you want your life to change, then start changing your life according to God's Word. Take the first small step today. 

ferree

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