For the next few days, let’s look at the seven instructions Naomi gave Ruth for approaching Boaz, the man who would become her husband and greatest benefactor. You see, there’s a certain protocol involved in walking with God; once you learn it, the things you’re waiting for suddenly begin to happen in your life. Step 1: Have an agenda: Ruth had an agenda. She wasn’t looking for just any man; she had a specific one in mind. And because Naomi had done her homework, she was able to tell Ruth where to find him. Listen: ‘he is winnowing barley tonight at the threshing floor.’ Research what you want from God before you start ‘naming and claiming’ things. Make sure it’s really what you (and God) desire for your life. If your name’s not on it, don’t pursue it. Don’t go after something just because it looks good on somebody else. Ever notice how people who don’t do much for God love to live vicariously through those who do?  Kind of like a soap opera? When you know God’s got something specific for you, you don’t have to live that way anymore. You won’t have to imitate anybody or envy them. You’ll get up each morning with a sense of purpose. It won’t matter how you feel that day. Why? Because you understand that what you’re going through at the moment is just preparation for what God’s about to do in your future!