Boaz and Ruth: A Godly Love Story of Loyalty, Faith, and Commitment

A Man Worthy of a Wife: Boaz and Ruth's Godly Love Story

Have you ever wondered if there are any examples of godly marriages in the Bible that we can look up to and learn from? Surprisingly, they are quite rare. While there are couples like Jacob and Rachel, Abraham and Sarah, and David and Abigail who shine in certain aspects, they also have their fair share of indiscretions and failures. However, amidst these imperfect unions, the love story between Boaz and Ruth stands out as a beautiful and commendable model for a godly marriage.

In the pages of Scripture, we find numerous teachings about marriage, but only a few actual marriages that we can emulate. This is what makes the love between Boaz, a righteous son of Judah, and his Moabite bride Ruth all the more remarkable.

A Worthy Woman

When Boaz discovered Ruth lying at his feet on the threshing-room floor in the darkness of night, he assured her, saying, "Now, my daughter, do not fear. I will do for you all that you ask, for all my fellow townsmen know that you are a worthy woman" (Ruth 3:11). Through her fierce loyalty, undaunted courage, Godward dependence, and submissive initiative, Ruth had proven herself to be a woman of noble character.

But what does it mean to be a "worthy woman"? In Proverbs 31, we find a beautiful description of the virtuous woman who exemplifies the qualities of a godly wife. She is trustworthy, hardworking, and wise. She cares for her family, manages her household with efficiency, and extends her hands to the poor and needy. Her husband and children rise up and call her blessed, and her character shines as a model for all women to aspire to.

Ruth, too, embodied these qualities. Her loyalty to Naomi, her mother-in-law, is evident throughout the book. Despite the challenges she faced as a Moabite widow in a foreign land, she remained faithful and committed to the God of Israel. Her humility and willingness to serve others, including Boaz and the field workers, demonstrated her selflessness.

A Love Rooted in God

The love story of Boaz and Ruth is not just a tale of romantic affection; it is a love story rooted in their shared faith in God. From the moment Ruth chose to leave her homeland and follow Naomi, she embraced the God of Israel as her own. Her commitment to God was not just a casual acknowledgment; it was a deep and sincere devotion.

In Ruth 1:16-17, Ruth famously declares, "Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if anything but death separates you and me." These words reflect Ruth's unwavering commitment to both Naomi and the God of Israel.

Boaz, too, demonstrated a deep faith in God. In their first encounter, he immediately noticed Ruth's loyalty and faithfulness. He praised her for seeking refuge under the wings of the God of Israel (Ruth 2:12). By acknowledging her trust in God, Boaz recognized that Ruth's character was firmly grounded in her relationship with the Lord.

As Christians today, we can draw valuable lessons from the love story of Boaz and Ruth. A godly marriage is not just about finding a compatible partner; it is about finding someone who shares our commitment to God. When both partners prioritize their relationship with God above all else, their love becomes a reflection of His love for us.

Lessons for Today's Marriages

The love story of Boaz and Ruth transcends time and remains relevant to marriages in the present and future. Here are some lessons we can learn from their example:

1. Loyalty and Commitment

Ruth's loyalty to Naomi and her decision to stay with her despite the challenges she faced demonstrate the importance of loyalty and commitment in a marriage. In a world where relationships are often disposable, Boaz and Ruth's unwavering commitment to each other serves as a reminder of the lasting covenant of marriage.

2. Selflessness and Servanthood

Ruth's humility and willingness to serve others, even in her own difficult circumstances, highlight the importance of selflessness in a marriage. Serving one another and prioritizing the needs of our spouse fosters a healthy and loving relationship.

3. Godward Dependence

Boaz recognized that Ruth's character was a result of her trust and dependence on God. In a marriage, relying on God and seeking His guidance strengthens the bond between husband and wife. By keeping God at the center of their relationship, couples can navigate challenges and experience true unity.

4. Faithfulness and Trust

Boaz and Ruth's faithfulness to one another is a testament to the trust they built in their relationship. Trust forms the foundation of a strong and thriving marriage, allowing couples to weather storms together and grow in love and intimacy.

5. Embracing Differences

Ruth, as a Moabite, came from a different culture and background than Boaz. Yet, their love transcended these differences. In a diverse world, marriages can learn from Boaz and Ruth's example of embracing and celebrating each other's unique qualities and backgrounds.

In Conclusion

The love story of Boaz and Ruth offers us a rare glimpse of a godly marriage in the Bible. Their unwavering commitment to each other, rooted in their shared faith in God, serves as an inspiration for couples today and in the future. By embodying qualities such as loyalty, selflessness, and Godward dependence, husbands and wives can cultivate a love that reflects the love of Christ for His Church. May the story of Boaz and Ruth continue to guide and encourage marriages in the years to come.