The Dating Game

Is it Biblical?

Last time we talked about Ruth and her obedience to the advice of Naomi. We will continue today with some practical lessons from the book of Ruth. Please read chapters 3 and 4.

Ruth has prepared herself for this very important event. She now goes to the threshing floor and as per the instructions of Naomi, she lies down at the feet of Boaz. Now obviously I would not advise any young lady to follow this advice literally. But there is a most wonderful picture of humility and subjection by Ruth. This position that Ruth takes is that of a servant. Today not many young ladies have this attitude. We live in a society that teaches equality of the sexes. In the sixties there started a movement called "women's liberation." A university professor at that time held the door open for a lady student. The young lady turned around, scolding and asked; "did you hold the door open because I'm a lady?" "No," the professor answered, "I did it because I'm a gentleman."

In Ruth we have a wonderful example of a godly woman. You see, God created man and woman and He knows what is best for each. Some think that the Bible is out of date. Let me assure you that if you, as a young Christian lady want to find "rest in the house of your husband," you will do good to understand and obey God's way.

It will not do for you to say, "yes, I will be submissive when I get married." No, you must show this attitude now. And for you guys, if you are looking for a godly wife this is one characteristic you must observe. A beautiful young lady that is not submissive now will NOT be so after the wedding vows.

Boaz here becomes the protector, Ruth humbly accepts his leadership and protection. Young lady, are you willing to accept the leadership of a husband? Are you ready to give all to him? Or are you the independent type? You will decide about your life, your future, your career, your job, etc, etc. Biblical marriage is not a 50/50 relationship, it is 100/100.

Does that mean in a Biblical marriage the husband is the "macho man," the slave driver and the wife is the submissive "slave?" Not at all. Let's look at Boaz now.

Boaz has been observing Ruth for quite some time. He has noticed that she is a godly woman, a hard worker (Ruth 2:3,7,17), a caring person (2:11), and she had the testimony of a virtuous woman (3:11). This is a good thing to do, just observe and take note of the good characteristics of a lady. Once you get involved your emotions will mar a proper judgment.

Boaz speaks to Ruth with respect and treats her like a lady even though she is a peasant widow. Every young Christian man should be a perfect gentleman ALWAYS. And do not be deceived by looks. Boaz was not looking for a beauty queen, he did notice, however the qualities that make for a good wife.

Boaz could have taken advantage of this situation (a beautiful young woman laying at his feet) but, as a godly man, he doesn't. He listens to Ruth and then praises her. There is nothing that will conquer the heart of a young lady than to find a gentleman that will respect her, listen to her and say nice things.

There is much more we could note in this story. I would like to note though that they maintained their purity, they had a good testimony and when they did decide to marry they did it publicly and properly.

RC