Ruth 3:11 “And now, my daughter, do not fear. I will do for you all that you request, for all the people of my town know that you are a virtuous woman.”
While Ruth 3:11 is Boaz’s positive response to Ruth’s request, the last part of the verse captures our attention as Boaz says that his reason for fulfilling the request comes from what HE KNOWS and OTHERS KNOW about Ruth’s reputation (character). Please ponder his characterization of her character. “For all the people of my town know that you are a virtuous woman.” Ruth was known around town as a VIRTUOUS WOMAN.
How are you known around town? What do people THINK about you? Do you think about what others think – KNOW? Some people quickly say, “I don’t care about what others think.” Hmmm. You need to rethink how you think! Please recall that, for instance, those in positions of spiritual leadership are to “have a good testimony among those who are outside,” (1 Tim. 3:7)
So, I ask again, how are you known around town? How are you known in your neighborhood? How are you known at your place of employment? How are you known at the Gym? At the Golf course? At church? At school? On the ball field? How are you known in your home? When your name is spoken does it stir up thoughts of you being a person of integrity, honesty, and virtue? Do others see you as being good and doing good?
Or does the mention of your name bring up thoughts of, well, shall we say, negative thoughts? Would others say you are not to be trusted? That it would be better for others to steer clear of you?
I appeal to you today to think about your reputation around town. Be known around town like Ruth was known – that of being a virtuous – upright – honest person!
1 Timothy 4:12 says, “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
Continue Strong being known for Christian character around town,
And remember to DATE the Word