In Love for Life

As Solomon states, three cords are stronger than a single cord. When we have cords in our relationship that are interwoven, they interact together to offer a greater level of strength. The more cords the stronger the bond. Consider how cables of wire are woven together to hold even the largest and heaviest of structures.

Naomi recognized that her daughters needed to have a full life rather than to be bound by the custom of remaining widowed and caring for her. She was willing to sacrifice her needs to provide for theirs. Kindness towards each other is one of the strands in the cord that holds us together in marriage. It is seen in our desire to put the needs of our spouse before our own needs. It is seen in how we express ourself to each other by kind words and deeds. Don't forget, kindness is also one of Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).

Ruth rejected Naomi's sacrifice choosing instead to remain and care for her widowed mother-in-law. She recognized her responsibility of caring for Naomi above fulfilling her own needs and wants. Note that through her actions, she was eventually able to fulfill both Naomi's needs as well as her own.

We make a total and permanent covenant (commitment) to our spouse and must honor all aspects of that. In addition to this, we remain loyal to our spouse no matter the circumstances or challenges of life.

Ruth worked hard, both physically and emotionally, to provide for herself and Naomi. In addition to the ministrations she provided to Naomi, she worked physically as a hired hand. We have to work hard, making the effort to build and sustain our relationship.

We have to be willing to pay the price to care for and provide for one another. This is beyond the physical element of earning a living. All too often, this becomes the primary focus at the expense of emotional and spiritual elements. The concept of hard work extends to every part of our relationship.

Ruth was told to wait patiently for the opportunity to make herself know to Boaz.

Building a successful and happy marriage requires time. We must work at it consistently and patiently. Remember, we are building a lifetime together. This helps sustain our relationship through difficult times as we look beyond the now and into the future. Impatience leads to mistakes. Patience helps us avoid rash and poor decisions. Patience also builds experience upon which we can draw wisdom.

Ruth was responding to Naomi's needs out of her love for her. There is no indication it was through a faith in God, although there was a deep spiritual element to that relationship (Ruth 1:16-18).

As history unfolded, we see God's hand guiding her life to fulfill His purpose (See Romans 8:28). As a result, her faith was rewarded. Not only was God's plan fulfilled through her, but she, Naomi, and Boaz were all blessed.

Even though we know that eventually our marriage will end due to some level of separation (divorce or death), we commit to one another and express our faith and devotion to God by following His plan for our marriage. For those faithful to God, they commit to His plan for life and marriage and to one another for life.

This is not only an expression of love for our spouse, but more importantly, our love for God. Because of this, our love for each other transcends this life into life eternal.

It can be convincingly argued that developing and sustaining our faith in God together is the greatest way to express our love for each other.

The cords of love keep our relationship alive and growing.

When others see this, especially our growing faith, they are encouraged by our example. This is especially true in our family but extends to those with whom we come into contact.

Teacher Note: Consider having the class sing the song, "Bind us Together"