Title

Packaging Our Character

Scripture
Therefore wash yourself and anoint yourself, put on your best garment and go down to the threshing floor...
(Ruth 3:3)
Devotional
Ruth not only honored Naomi; she made herself subject to her. She listened with an ear leaning toward obedience. Ruth was teachable and Naomi was wise. Naomi understood that Ruth needed to win the favor of Boaz; and that the winning of favor begins with an outward appearance. This is not the case with God; however, it is the case with man. It says in the book of Samuel, “Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”(1) The fact is that man does look at the outward appearance. Therefore, we are to do our best to reflect on the outside that which is on the inside. Ruth packaged herself in truth. She made her outward appearance match her inward quality. Our actions, words and deeds will eventually expose our inward appearance. Again, we are to package ourselves honestly and with dignity. Therefore seek wise counsel and receive instruction with regard to appearance.

(1) 1 Samuel 16:7
Text For The Day
Ruth 3:3: “Therefore wash yourself and anoint yourself, put on your best garment and go down to the threshing floor…”
Thought For The Day
“The more excellent something is the more likely it will be imitated. There are many false diamonds and rubies, but who goes about making counterfeit pebbles?” Jonathan Edwards in Religious Affectations. Christianity Today.
 
Questions To Ponder
Morning Study Guide
Defining:  Ruth was not putting on false apparel, but she clothed herself appropriately and with dignity for the occasion.
 
Referencing: “To give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness,” Isaiah 61:3.
 
Applying: Dress for success. Dress appropriately for the occasion. There is a time to wear work clothes, play clothes, and there is a time to dress up.