Seeking Godly Character in Relationships: Lessons from Ruth
Summary
In this sermon, I was reminded of the importance of seeking Godly character in relationships and the significance of exploring connections with others. The sermon highlighted the story of Ruth and Boaz, emphasizing their pursuit of each other and their shared values. The pastor also discussed the importance of showing consideration for one another, as demonstrated by Boaz's actions towards Ruth in the fields.
The sermon also touched on the topic of dating and marriage, acknowledging the awkwardness that can often accompany dating. The pastor shared personal anecdotes to illustrate these points, emphasizing the importance of communication and genuine connection in relationships. He also discussed the potential pitfalls of online dating, cautioning against treating people as commodities while acknowledging that it can be a useful tool for meeting potential partners.
Key takeaways from this sermon include:
- The importance of seeking Godly character in relationships, as demonstrated by Ruth and Boaz's story ([41:34]).
- The significance of exploring connections and showing consideration for one another in relationships ([44:57]).
- The potential benefits and drawbacks of online dating, with a reminder to treat people as individuals rather than commodities ([30:03]).
- The power of God's grace and redemption, even in the face of great sin or brokenness ([57:50]).
- The reminder that God is always present and working in our lives, even in times of struggle or pain ([57:08]).
Study Guide
Bible Passages:
1. Ruth 2:1-23
2. Proverbs 31:10-31
3. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Key Points from the sermon:
1. The importance of seeking Godly character in a partner.
2. The value of exploring connections and showing consideration in relationships.
3. The role of faith and spirituality in building strong relationships.
Observation Questions:
1. What qualities does Boaz see in Ruth in Ruth 2:1-23?
2. How does Proverbs 31:10-31 describe a virtuous woman?
3. What does 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 say about love?
Interpretation Questions:
1. How does Ruth's character in Ruth 2:1-23 reflect the qualities of a virtuous woman as described in Proverbs 31:10-31?
2. How can the principles of love in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 be applied in a dating or marriage relationship?
3. What does it mean to show consideration in a relationship, as Boaz did for Ruth?
Application Questions:
1. How can we seek and develop Godly character in our own lives?
2. How can we show consideration and love to others in our relationships?
3. How can we apply the principles of love from 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 in our daily interactions with others?
Devotional
Day 1: God's Grace is Limitless
God's grace is a gift that is freely given, not because we have earned it, but because He loves us. It is limitless, reaching us in our deepest despair and lifting us to new heights of love and forgiveness. Even when we feel undeserving, His grace is there, ready to heal, restore, and renew.
Ephesians 2:8-9 - "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you felt undeserving of God's grace. How did you experience His limitless grace during that time? If you are currently in a strained relationship or marriage, how can you and your partner actively seek God's grace for redemption and renewal?
Day 2: Seek Godly Character in Relationships
Our relationships should reflect the love and respect that God has for each of us. This means seeking godly character in ourselves and in those we choose to surround ourselves with. It means valuing honesty, kindness, patience, and love above all else.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7 - "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres."
Reflection: Think about your current relationships. Are they characterized by godly values and mutual respect? If not, what steps can you take to foster a deeper connection based on godly character?
Day 3: The Power of God's Word
God's word is a powerful tool for transformation. It can bring comfort in times of sorrow, guidance in times of uncertainty, and hope in times of despair. It is a source of wisdom and truth that can change our lives in profound ways.
Hebrews 4:12 - "For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart."
Reflection: How has God's word impacted your life? Are there specific verses or passages that have brought about significant change in your life? How can you share the power of God's word with others?
Day 4: The Generosity of the Church
The church is called to be a community of generosity, sharing our resources, time, and talents to further God's kingdom. This generosity is a reflection of God's own generosity towards us, and it is a powerful way to show His love to the world.
Acts 20:35 - "In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’"
Reflection: In what ways have you experienced the generosity of the church? How can you contribute your time, resources, and talents to further God's work in your church community?
Day 5: Hope for the Future
Even in the midst of challenges and trials, we can have hope for the future because of God's promises. His word assures us that He has a plan for us, a plan to give us hope and a future.
Jeremiah 29:11 - "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you faced significant challenges. How did your faith in God's promises provide hope for the future? How can you cultivate this hope in your daily life, especially during difficult times?
Quotes
1. "I thank God for all of you and I thank God that he's entrusting our church with calling to get his word out for free to everyone everywhere every day." - 27:37
2. "Dating can be kind of awkward. It's a little bit like a job interview. You're not sure what to wear, you're not sure what to say. Maybe the most difficult part about the date for me always was like how do you end it?" - 28:15
3. "I've seen many many times God bring great couples together through online dating. I think it can be a very very good thing. If there's any type of a downside it might be that it trains us almost to like commoditize people." - 30:03
4. "Even in your struggling marriage, he is the one that when you call on him and when you seek Him He will always be found by you and he is so good in his providential power he's working in all things to bring about good to those who love him and are called according to his purpose." - 57:08
5. "There is no sin too great for God's grace. There is no marriage too Broken for God's healing and there is no relationship Beyond God's Redemption." - 57:50
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