A Woman of Noble Character

Ruth 3: 11 And now, my daughter, don’t be afraid. I will do for you all you ask. All the people of my town know that you are a woman of noble character.

Chapter three gives us a closer look at Ruth, who Boaz describes as a woman of noble character. We already know she’s loyal because of the way she followed her mother-in-law from Moab to Israel. We see her taking a risk (and not for the first time) in going to Boaz on the threshing floor. She has taken time to understand and follow Israeli traditions (such as gleaning and kinsman redeemers). In short, she is the sort of woman who pays attention to and engages with the world around her.

When Boaz says she is “a woman of noble character,” he seems to be referring to the loyalty, courage, and care that she exudes. Of course, this doesn’t mean that she’s perfect, but she is a model for us. As you reflect and talk to Jesus throughout the day, spend some time asking him what it might look like for you to be a person of noble character? Think of some specific spaces in your life where this might be particularly poignant.