Juanita Hall

The Ruby Woman Juanita Hall

Much has been written on the subject of the Proverbs 31 Woman. This study seeks to go deeper, to discover how the same Hebrew words used of her are used in other parts of the Bible, and how they apply to our lives today. Rather than a list of attributes to attain to, the Proverbs 31 poem is like an obituary, describing the character of this "Ruby Woman's" life. It lists her domestic responsibilities, business enterprises, and charitable service. It's not that this woman gets up every morning before dawn and stays up late every night! It's just that her life is characterized by selflessly doing whatever is necessary to meet the needs of her family. It's not that she is always perfectly serene, pleasant, and helpful, but that her life is characterized by that. That is her consistent way of life. Doing good deeds for selfish reasons (to draw attention to self; to gain love, admiration and gratitude from others; to feel good about self, etc.) gains us nothing (1 Co 13:3). Our prayer is that this study not only helps women become more like this woman of valor, but also a great witness to the Gospel as the Spirit compels us to love. May it also help our young men have greater discernment in choosing a life-long companion!