Courtship is a season of prayerful discernment, where character is revealed and values are tested. A man who truly fears God will treat a woman with honor, respect, and kindness long before marriage. If he consistently belittles, manipulates, abuses, or refuses to value your God-given worth during courtship, those are warning signs that should not be ignored. God’s design for marriage is one of mutual honor and sacrificial love, not control or disrespect (Ephesians 5:25; 1 Peter 3:7).
The story of Boaz and Ruth is a beautiful picture of godly courtship. Boaz treated Ruth with dignity, compassion, and generosity. He protected her, spoke kindly to her, and respected her integrity without taking advantage of her vulnerability (Ruth 2:8–12, 14–16). His conduct reflected his reverence for God and demonstrated the kind of character that forms the foundation of a healthy marriage. A relationship rooted in honor and respect is far more likely to flourish than one marked by neglect or dishonor.
Never settle for a relationship that diminishes your value as God’s child. Wait for someone whose words and actions consistently reflect Christlike love and respect. Your identity and worth come from God, not from another person’s opinion or treatment of you. Trust the Lord to lead you to someone who will cherish, encourage, and walk with you in fulfilling His purpose for your lives together (Psalm 37:4–5; Proverbs 3:5–6).
