Opening Prayer: Lord, I pray that you lead me into your truth as I meditate on your word in Jesus name.

Scripture: Ruth 4: 1‐22

Question(s) for Reflection
• Is there any example for me to follow or not to follow?
• What truth is God revealing to me in this passage?

MESSAGE

Observe the actions Naomi took to protect and cater for Ruth. The actions of Naomi and Ruth were legitimate at that time. Since Ruth had been accepted into the family of God’s people, the law gave her the right to ask for Boaz’s protection for both herself and her husband’s family inheritance (Deuteronomy 25:5‐10). Ruth, being an alien, might not know the law but she was humble enough to listen to and obey her mother‐in‐law.

Young people still have a lot to learn from older Christians as Ruth did from Naomi and Boaz. Notice the steps Boaz takes to redeem Ruth (vs.1‐12). Carrying relatives and the community along gives credibility to the marriage union. From vs.13‐21 can you identify the purpose for this particular marriage? God has a divine arrangement for the birth of Jesus Christ. Also, read 2 Samuel 7:16, 28&29. Each couple is brought together for a special purpose.

Do you know yours? Consider the difficult circumstances Naomi finds herself and the outcome of absolute trust in the Lord. Do you find any encouragement from this (v.15)? How about the blissful marriage her daughter‐in‐law, Ruth, gets? God‐ordained marriages fulfil His purpose – gives Him pleasure (Hebrews 13: 4).

Practice/Word Application
So What? It is imperative that both parents and their grown‐up children who are ready for marriage, apply godly principles as they observe their unique cultural marital rites.

• Any new insight or reinforcement of what you already know?

Closing Prayer
• Prayer: Help me, dear Lord, to honour you in all aspects of my marriage.

Offer a prayer of faith in line with
Genesis 6:8; Ezekiel 19‐21

Daily Guide 5th September 2022 | Scripture Union