“A Virtuous Woman” - 1/20/25

 

While Ruth spoke to Boaz about being married, and he being a near kinsman, Boaz promised, “Fear not; I will do to thee all that thou requirest: for all the city of my people doth know that thou art a virtuous woman” Ruth 3:11). The word “virtuous” is an interesting word. Saying the whole city of Bethlehem knows her as such also speaks volumes.

 

What does the word “virtuous” mean in this context? “Virtuous” is translated from the Hebrew word “chayil.” It is similar in thought to the Greek word (arete), translated “virtue” (II Pet. 1:5). In both cases, the idea of “virtue” is that of moral courage or moral strength. The Berean Study Bible reads, “a woman of noble character.” The ESV and NET say she is a “worthy woman.”

 

Ruth has shown herself to be a woman of strength, of moral character, and godliness. Not only had this been noticed in Boaz’s field (Ruth 2:6-23), but in the city itself (some translations say the “gate of the city,” Ruth 3:11)!  It reminds me of what Solomon would say in later years, “Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised” (Prov. 31:30). In the next verse he adds, “let her own works praise her in the gates” (Prov. 31:31). Yes, the value of a virtuous woman is “far above rubies” (Prov. 31:10).

 

Please understand that the city gate was a significant place in Biblical times. It was a place of civic action, commerce, etc., and where the leading men went daily to conduct the town’s affairs. It was here that the agreement concerning the “nearer” kinsman would happen (Ruth 4). Thus, when Boaz says she is a woman of character or moral strength and recognized by the leaders of Bethlehem, this means something. She was living the teachings in Proverbs 22:29 before it was written!

 

Friend, do not ever think you have little or no influence on others. In fact, the opposite is true when we talk about being a light for the Lord (Matt. 5:14-16). When we live for Him and serve God faithfully, we are being that light desperately needed in today's world. Folks will see us and note how we live. They will be watching to see what this life as a Christian is all about. Friend, what are we showing them? I am deeply impressed with Ruth along this line because she was not even a Jew, yet she followed the Lord’s will faithfully in those days and was a good example to the Jewish people who saw her daily.

 

How are we doing along this line? How is our moral courage? We noted earlier that this is talked about in the New Testament, and this is what Christians need to add to their faith (II Pet. 1:5)! Is this happening in your life? It takes a while to grow that good character, so how are we doing in developing this? Living as a Christian is not for the faint of heart nor for the lazy! Ruth showed her willingness to work and be active in her daily life. What are we showing the world regarding our faithfulness to the Lord? Do we take up our cross daily (Lk. 9:23)? Let us be thankful God gives us examples like Ruth, who show us how to live for the Lord in hard times (Rom. 15:4).

 

- Jarrod M. Jacobs