Ruth is described as a virtuous woman, translating the Hebrew phrase 'ešet hayl, which means woman of worth, strength, or noble character. This phrase appears in Proverbs 12:4 and Proverbs 31:10, where it refers to an excellent or virtuous wife. Boaz praises Ruth's kindness for choosing him over a younger man and notes that everyone in Bethlehem holds her in high esteem for her virtue. Her actions, though potentially seen as scandalous, are deemed honorable by Boaz due to her reputation for virtue. Ruth's virtuous nature is evident in her diligent work in the fields, her kind treatment of Naomi, and her wise and loyal words. These characteristics align with the description of the virtuous wife in Proverbs 31, suggesting Ruth as a model for this ideal.

On this Sabbath day, as we count toward Pentecost, we are reminded of the transformation God is working in us to become the virtuous and unleavened life He already sees fulfilled. Jesus Christ is preparing His bride, a precious gem and delight to Him, for the glory of the Father. We are in a process of real and permanent change, becoming the image and likeness of God, and with our cooperation, the unleavened life of Jesus Christ will become as natural to us as it is to Him, by the grace of God. As firstfruits, we are Jesus Christ's precious jewels, making up the bride of Christ who will follow Him wherever He goes. Proverbs 31:10-31 offers a profound description of the virtuous wife, whose worth is far above rubies or pearls. Her husband's heart safely trusts her, and she does him good all the days of her life. She works willingly with her hands, provides for her household, extends her hand to the needy, and is clothed with strength and honor. She speaks with wisdom and kindness, watches over her household, and her children and husband praise her, declaring that she excels all others. A woman who fears the Lord shall be praised, and her own works will honor her. This virtuous woman may reflect the bride of Christ, the perfect helpmate who supports Jesus Christ in His work. Her value, described as surpassing rubies or pearls, underscores her preciousness, paralleling the church as the pearl for which Christ paid the ultimate price. The heart of her husband trusts her, ensuring no lack of gain, and her strength, honor, wisdom, and kindness reveal a life devoted to God, permeating every relationship. As the bride of Christ, prepared to follow the Lamb wherever He goes, she diligently works with Him, embodying the honor, worth, and blessing of God's view of the perfect wife.

A woman's success in the world is less a function of her appearance than it is of her competence. What a woman can do ultimately matters more than how she looks. A woman might look like a super-model, but if she shows up for work three hours late, doesn't answer her phone calls, and can't do the work she's assigned to do, then she won't be successful no matter how good she looks.

The Virtuous Woman, as described in Proverbs 31, reveals a stark contrast to the worldly view of a biblical wife as an oppressed slave. Instead, she is portrayed with honor and praise, possessing worth beyond measure. Her life is filled with opportunity, blessing, great fulfillment, and satisfaction. This depiction aligns with God's view of a perfect wife, showcasing the positive aspects of following His instructions.