Do You Have Someone? | AllWorship.com

We were created for connection and relationship. It is hardwired into us: We all need someone with whom we can connect, on whom we can depend, and in whom we can trust to do what they say they will do.

These qualities are in short supply, it seems. Most people will do what they say when it is convenient, beneficial, or makes them look good. But those who will do what they say solely because they are committed to it are few.

In today’s Scripture passage, Naomi says of Boaz, “Just be patient and don’t worry about what will happen. He won’t rest until everything is settled today!” Apparently, Boaz had a reputation for being a trustworthy person of integrity. Someone may be thinking, “What’s that? I’ve never seen one.” (Not meant as a joke.)

Don’t worry, I’ll do what you have asked. You are respected by everyone in town. It’s true that I am one of the relatives who is supposed to take care of you, but there is someone who is an even closer relative. Stay here until morning, then I will find out if he is willing to look after you. If he isn’t, I promise by the living God to do it myself. Now go back to sleep until morning. When Ruth got back to town, Naomi asked her what had happened, and Ruth told her everything. She also said, “Boaz gave me this grain, because he didn’t want me to come back without something for you.” Naomi replied, “Just be patient and don’t worry about what will happen. He won’t rest until everything is settled today!” (Rth 3:11-13, 16-18 CEV)

Would you like to have a friend like that?
DO you have a friend like that?
ARE you a friend like that?

All of us want such a friend. The greater question, however, is whether we are willing to BE such a friend. It works both ways: You cannot have one without being one. It’s just the way it works.

Today’s passage is also about trusting and being trustworthy. Ruth was told to trust Boaz. She did. He proved he was faithful to do what he said. Boaz was a “type” (example) of Jesus in that he was a “redeemer” according to the custom of the day.

In this, I encourage you to consider your relationship with Jesus. FYI: That relationship works both ways, too. Do you trust Him to do what He says He will do? Do you trust Him to do it FOR YOU?

This question cuts to the heart of faith. It is one thing to believe that Jesus can do what He says or even will do what He says. Most admit to this. But are you able to believe that He will do it for you? That is the real test. Can you trust that, like Boaz, He will not rest until He does what He says He will do … FOR YOU?

That question is a hard one. Few of us really believe that He will do it FOR US to the point that we will not trust Him without a plan with specs and a documented schedule. Don’t get puffy; you know this is true.

Set your faith to trust Him even when you have no evidence. Trust Him just because He said it. Let His promise be your evidence.
Set your heart to rely on Him to do what He says … FOR YOU. This is the defining line between true faith and religious rhetoric. Rhetoric cannot move mountains. Faith can.

You need a friend like this. You are hardwired with this need and cannot disregard it without inflicting serious psychological damage on yourself. The good news is that Jesus can be this for you. Make no mistake: This is literal. If it is not, then in what are we believing? (Real question.)

Will you choose to be such a person of faith and integrity? You can, if you will. It’s time to decide.