The Book of Ruth, a poignant narrative nestled within the Old Testament, offers a timeless and deeply moving illustration of God's providential hand in the lives of those who seek marriage under His direction. Far from a simple romance, the story of Ruth unfolds as a testament to unwavering loyalty, selfless devotion, and the beautiful tapestry woven when individuals align their desires with God's overarching plan. For those who aspire to enter the sacred covenant of marriage guided by divine wisdom, Ruth's journey provides invaluable insights and enduring principles.
At its heart, the story begins with tragedy. Naomi, an Israelite woman, finds herself widowed and childless in the foreign land of Moab, having lost her husband Elimelech and their two sons, Mahlon and Chilion. Her Moabite daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth, face similar desolation. When Naomi decides to return to her homeland of Judah after hearing that the Lord had visited His people and given them bread, she releases her daughters-in-law to return to their own families and gods. Orpah, though initially hesitant, eventually chooses to go back. However, Ruth's response echoes with a profound and unwavering commitment:
"But Ruth said: Entreat me not to leave you, Or to turn back from following after you; For wherever you go, I will go; And wherever you lodge, I will lodge; Your people shall be my people, And your God, my God. Where you die, I will die, And there I will be buried. The Lord do so to me, and more also, If anything but death parts you and me." (Ruth 1:16-17)
Ruth's declaration is not merely an expression of affection for Naomi; it is a profound statement of faith and a decisive turning point in her life. She chooses to forsake her homeland, her family, and her gods to cleave to Naomi and, more importantly, to Naomi's God, Yahweh. This act of selfless devotion lays the foundation for the blessings that follow, highlighting a crucial principle for those seeking God's direction in marriage: prioritize spiritual alignment and commitment to God's people and His ways. As the Apostle Paul later wrote, "Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness?" (2 Corinthians 6:14). Ruth's choice demonstrates the wisdom of seeking a partner who shares a deep and abiding faith in the same God.
Upon their arrival in Bethlehem, Ruth, driven by a desire to provide for Naomi, humbly seeks permission to glean in the fields during the barley harvest. Her diligence and respectful demeanor catch the eye of Boaz, a wealthy and influential relative of Naomi's late husband. Boaz, a man of noble character and evident piety, inquires about Ruth and shows her remarkable kindness. He instructs his young men not to harass her and even invites her to drink water with them and partake in their meal. Boaz's words to Ruth reveal his recognition of her virtuous character and her loyalty to Naomi:
And Boaz answered and said to her, “It has been fully reported to me, all that you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband, and how you have left your father and your mother and the land of your birth, and have come to the people whom you did not know before. The Lord repay your work, and a full reward be given you by the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings you have come for refuge.” (Ruth 2:11-12, NKJV)
Boaz's blessing upon Ruth is significant. He acknowledges her faith in seeking refuge under the "wings" of the Lord God of Israel, a metaphorical expression of divine protection and care. This encounter underscores the importance of living a life of integrity and diligence, allowing one's character to speak for itself. For those aspiring to marriage under God's direction, cultivating godly character traits such as kindness, humility, and industry is essential, as these qualities often attract the attention and favor of those who are also walking in God's ways. Proverbs 12:26 states, "The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray." Choosing to live righteously increases the likelihood of encountering others who share similar values.
Naomi, recognizing Boaz's kindness and his kinship, perceives an opportunity for Ruth's provision and potential future. She instructs Ruth according to the custom of the kinsman-redeemer (goel in Hebrew). The goel had the responsibility to redeem a relative's property and, in some cases, to marry the widow of a deceased relative to continue the family line. Naomi's plan, though seemingly strategic, is rooted in the legal and social framework of their time and ultimately relies on God's providence. She advises Ruth to present herself to Boaz at the threshing floor, a place where he would be present and where the community gathered.
Ruth's obedience to Naomi's instructions, even those that might have seemed unconventional or even a little risky, demonstrates trust in godly counsel. Proverbs 11:14 reminds us, "Where there is no counsel, the people fall; But in the multitude of counselors there is safety." Seeking and heeding the wisdom of mature, godly individuals in matters of the heart is crucial for those desiring to walk in God's direction.
The encounter at the threshing floor is pivotal. Ruth humbly requests Boaz to "take your maidservant under your wing, for you are a close relative" (Ruth 3:9). Her words are a respectful claim on his responsibility as a kinsman-redeemer. Boaz's response is filled with admiration for her virtuous conduct:
Then he said, “Blessed are you of the Lord, my daughter! For you have shown more kindness at the end than at the beginning, in that you did not go after young men, whether poor or rich. And now, my daughter, do not fear. I will do for you all that you request, for all the men of my city know that you are a virtuous woman.” (Ruth 3:10-11)
Boaz commends Ruth for her discretion and her focus on family responsibility rather than pursuing personal gain or youthful romance. His acknowledgment of her being a "woman of valour" (often translated as virtuous or excellent) highlights the significance of inner character and reputation in attracting a godly spouse. Proverbs 31:10-11 speaks of such a woman: "Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies. The heart of her husband safely trusts her; So he will have no lack of gain."
However, the story doesn't conclude immediately with Boaz claiming his right of redemption. The Law of Moses stipulated that there might be a closer relative with the first right of redemption. Boaz, being a righteous and honorable man, meticulously follows the legal process. He goes to the city gate, the place of public assembly and legal proceedings, and presents the matter to the closer relative. When this relative is unwilling to fulfill the responsibility of redeeming the property and marrying Ruth (lest it jeopardise his own inheritance), Boaz legally and publicly takes Ruth as his wife.
This part of the narrative underscores the importance of honoring God's principles and processes even in matters of marriage. Boaz doesn't take shortcuts or act impulsively. He operates within the framework of the law, ensuring that everything is done with integrity and transparency. For those seeking God's direction, this implies seeking His will through prayer, seeking godly counsel, and acting in a way that honors His Word and established principles.
The culmination of Ruth and Boaz's story is a beautiful picture of God's redemptive love and His ability to bring blessing out of hardship. They marry, and the Lord grants them a son, Obed, who becomes the grandfather of King David, ultimately placing Ruth, a Moabite woman, in the lineage of Jesus Christ. This unexpected turn of events reveals God's sovereign hand at work, demonstrating that He can use even seemingly unlikely circumstances to fulfill His greater purposes.
For those aspiring to marriage under God's direction, the story of Ruth offers several key takeaways:
* Spiritual Alignment is Paramount: Ruth's initial decision to follow Naomi and embrace her God set the stage for all the blessings that followed. Seeking a partner who shares your faith and commitment to God is foundational.
* Godly Character Attracts Favour: Ruth's diligence, humility, loyalty, and virtue were evident to Boaz and the community. Cultivating godly character traits is essential.
* Trust Godly Counsel: Ruth's obedience to Naomi's wise guidance played a significant role in the unfolding of events. Seeking and heeding the advice of mature believers is crucial.
* Live with Integrity and Diligence: Ruth's hard work in the fields and her respectful demeanour opened doors for her. Diligence in all areas of life honors God and can lead to unexpected blessings.
* Honour God's Principles and Processes: Boaz's adherence to the law and his transparent actions demonstrate the importance of seeking God's will within the framework of His Word and established principles.
* God's Providence is at Work: Even in times of hardship and uncertainty, God is actively working behind the scenes to bring about His good purposes. Trusting in His sovereignty is essential.
The story of Ruth is not a formula for finding a spouse, but rather a powerful illustration of how God can guide and bless those who seek Him wholeheartedly and live according to His principles. It reminds us that marriage, when entered into under God's direction, is not merely a union of two individuals, but a joining of lives that can contribute to His greater plan, just as Ruth, the Moabitess, became an integral part of the lineage of the Messiah. As Psalm 37:4 encourages, "Delight yourself also in the Lord, And He shall give you the desires of your heart." When our deepest desires align with God's will and our lives reflect His character, we can trust that He will guide our steps and bring about His perfect plan for our lives, including the sacred journey of marriage.
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