Proverbs 31:10 asks the question: “Who can find a virtuous woman…?” Webster’s dictionary defines the word virtuous as general moral excellence, goodness of character, or chaste. The end of verse ten goes on to say if you can find such a woman, “her price [or value] is far above rubies.” The standard here is not an unrealistic perfection in all areas of life. Instead, it is an inward beauty of character and morals that can make any woman who seeks to cultivate these qualities a highly valued woman to all who know her.
We actually have biblical examples of virtuous women. Ruth was told that all the city knew she was a “virtuous woman” (Ruth 3:11) for her devotion to Jehovah, loving care for her elder mother-in-law, work ethic, and humility to listen to instruction. The virtue of Sarah is described in 1 Peter 3:4-6 for her submission to her husband with a “meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.”
Proverbs 31 emphasizes several qualities of a virtuous woman. She is worthy of her husband’s trust (Pr. 31:11), will always do her husband good and not evil (Pr. 31:12), diligently and consistently “worketh willingly” to advance family finances (Pr. 31:13-24), she conducts herself with “strength and honor” (Pr. 31:25), “opens her mouth with wisdom [or discretion, and]…kindness” (Pr. 31:26), and “looketh well to the ways of her household” without engaging in “idleness” (Pr. 31:27). Pr. 31:30 seems to also imply that while she may possess or desire outward beauty, she realizes this is “vain,” or empty, and fleeting. Therefore, she places a higher value on the inner beauty of the virtues studied above, and she does so because she has godliness or is “a woman that feareth the Lord.”
If you are a man who has found a virtuous woman, you are greatly blessed. Proverbs tells us “a prudent wife is from the Lord” (Pr. 19:14), and she is “a crown to her husband” (Pr. 12:4). Tell your virtuous woman today that you greatly appreciate her godliness. If you’re not yet married, this is the kind of woman you should be looking for. If you are a woman who is not satisfied that these qualities are developed fully enough in you, don’t be discouraged. Instead, take one of these qualities, ask the Lord to help you grow in this virtue, and prayerfully work on it today. source