Boaz is a Benjamin figure — a man in a position of authority who is kind to a poor woman gleaning in his fields, who responds generously when she approaches him as a beggar, and who follows Israelite law and town customs as he provides for her. Benjamin's teachings illuminate the virtue and nobility of Boaz.
Family and Church
King Benjamin emphasized care in expanding circles: self, family, and others. The Lord reaffirms this pattern in modern revelation: children have claim first upon their parents and then upon the church. As disciples of Jesus Christ, we must wisely balance self-reliance, family care, and contributions to the Lord’s storehouse.
Succor, Lift Up, and Strengthen
The Lord invited Frederick G. Williams to "succor the weak, lift up the hands which hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees." It begins with awareness: we need to notice the need. Then we can provide appropriate assistance, whether that be emergency relief, encouragement, or training and coaching.
A Job Description for Servants of God
Doctrine and Covenants 4 reads like a job description. It states the need, the expectations, the compensation, and two lists of qualifications. We don't need all of those qualifications to get started. With God's help, we can develop them as we serve.
Service, Joy, and the Love of God
King Benjamin taught that when we are serving others, we are serving God. Elder Dieter F. Uchtorf added that serving others brings joy, and Elder Alexander Dushku added that we can feel the love God has for others as we serve them.
Without the Camp
When sacrifices were performed in ancient Israel, the bodies of the animals were burned "without the camp." Jesus was similarly crucified outside of the walls of Jerusalem. We must meet Him there: outside of our comfort zone and our usual social circles.
Giving Cheerfully
When we give or serve grudgingly, we miss out on the enjoyment that is inherent in these activities. The faster we can overcome our initial resistance, the sooner we can experience the joy and growth that come from giving cheerfully!
By the Hand
Peter took the lame beggar by the hand and lifted him up as he healed him. Alma did something similar for Zeezrom. We may have opportunities to serve people from a distance, but there is really no substitute for serving other people directly.
“Ye Visited Me”
Jesus taught that we should provide what others lack where possible: food for the hungry, clothing for the naked, etc. When we can't remove their challenges, such as when they are sick or in prison, we can visit them.
The Sheep and the Wayfaring Man
The hymn "A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief" elaborates on the types of service described in the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats. As we serve others and meet their needs, we are blessed immediately, and we become more prepared to return to God's presence.