Character is described in the dictionary as: The combination of qualities or features that distinguishes one person, group, or thing from another.

An additional definition is: The combined moral or ethical structure of a person or group.

Your character and mine are made up of a mixture of good and bad qualities. Our qualities are seen by others and are probably judged by them. Our qualities distinguish us from other people.

Our thoughts become the words we speak

and the words we speak reveal our character.

We should measure our thoughts and words with what Scripture states, our measure should not be in comparison to others.

(NIV) Philippians 4:8-9 “…whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praise-worthy – think about such things.”

(NASB) Ruth 2:3 “So she departed and went and gleaned in the field after the reapers; and she happened to come to the portion of the field belonging to Boaz, who was of the family of Elimelech.”

***What can we know of Ruth’s character from this statement? She had to walk from Bethlehem to go into the harvest fields. She expended physical effort and then she would be working hard throughout the day then need to walk back to Bethlehem with a load of grain that she would have gleaned. What she did was not easy. She was productive. No one could accuse her of being lazy!

She would have had to keep moving; gathering grain in the heat. She would have been breathing in the dust and chaff. This would also be demanding physically.

(NASB) Ruth 2:4a “Now behold, Boaz came from Bethlehem and said to the reapers…”

***What can we know of Boaz’ character from this verse? He kept tabs on how the work was progressing, how the workers were faring and other things a landowner would be responsible for at harvest time. He was conscientious and kept himself informed. He interacted with the workers:

“˜Listen’ to Boaz’ exchange with some of his workers:

(NASB) Ruth 2:4b “‘May the Lord be with you.’ And they said to him, “˜May the Lord bless you.'”

***What a greeting! Boaz blessed his workers with the name of the Lord. And he wasn’t even a preacher or priest!

A man’s character is shown by his words.

Boaz must have been well respected by those workers for they returned a blessing of the Lord.

What is your character like when you address others, whether they work for you or with you? How do others respond to you, is it with respect?

Respect is earned and is a mark of good character.

What is your prayer?