Single Christians dating tip: Choose to date those who demonstrate godly character traits like family loyalty, responsibility, strong work ethic, maturity and determination during trials.

When they arrive in Bethlehem, Ruth, consistent with her vow to Naomi in chapter 1, goes and finds a job gleaning in a barley field. Gleaning was picking up whatever grain was left behind by the harvesters. Gleaning was the work of very poor people.In the field Ruth “just happens” to meet Boaz. He is a wealthy relative of Naomi’s dead husband. Listen to what Boaz’s foreman had to say about Ruth’s character: “She said, Please let me glean and gather among the sheaves behind the harvesters. She went into the field and has worked steadily from morning till now, except for a short rest in the shelter.”
 

Boaz discovers that Ruth is a hard worker, who takes seriously her vow to care for her mother-in-law. Ruth did not come expecting a handout. She came with a willing heart to work.

Single Christians dating tip: Affiliate with people who have a strong work ethic. People who are willing to do what it takes to provide for themselves.

Now let’s take a look at the character traits of Boaz…verses 8-12 in chapter 2 speak volumes about Boaz. Listen to what Boaz says to Ruth: My daughter, listen to me. Don’t go and glean in another field and don’t go away from here. Stay here with my servant girls. Watch the field where the men are harvesting, and follow along after the girls. I have told the men not to touch you. And whenever you are thirsty, go and get a drink from the water jars the men have filled.

Boaz is the prototype of true masculinity. While Ruth is working in his fields he protects her. He provides for her. He treats her with the utmost respect. Later on Boaz compliments Ruth’s willingness to provide for Naomi and blesses her in the name of the Lord. It’s likely for Ruth that this feels like the beginning of a safe relationship. Single Christians need good information on how to build healthy relationships.

 

Single Christians dating tip: Affiliate with people who not only confess faith in God through Christ, but who express their faith confidently.

It’s interesting to note that Boaz builds Ruth up. He does not offer empty platitudes or flirtatious remarks that make her feel compromised or uncomfortable. His remarks communicate his respect for Ruth and her priorities.

How does Ruth respond to Boaz’s graciousness…Ruth responds with humility and thankfulness. Ruth is not too proud to except Boaz’s provision for her and Naomi. Neither is she embarrassed by her needy situation. She is willing to do what it takes and receives Boaz’s kindness as the blessing that it is from the Lord.

Most importantly, this appears to be the beginning of a relationship which will draw her closer to God and affirm her beliefs and her values. Single Christians dating need to avoid relationships that compromise their Christian values.

 

Single Christians dating tip : Ask yourself “Is this relationship drawing me closer to God or further away from Him?

Throughout the book of Ruth, Boaz continues to express great integrity. Ruth is the new girl on the block. She is not familiar with the customs of the Jews and Boaz is sensitive to her emotional vulnerability. He tells his men be gentle with her. He offers her grace when she makes mistakes. In healthy relationships people feel safe to be themselves. They feel safe enough to make mistakes, because the expectation is not perfection.