Godly Mothers
by Dan C. Bailey
In a world burdened with wars, economic crises, crime, and traumatic physical events such as hurricanes, floods, tornados, and earthquakes, a day to honor mothers may seem trivial. Yet, the greatest influence in the world, other than the Word of God, is a godly mother. "Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies" (Proverbs 31:10). She helps to mold and fashion her children to become good citizens and future leaders. She is especially influential when she is a godly mother. She teaches her children to work hard, to pray, and to love the Lord and His Holy Word. A godly mother struggles with her children at worship services, knowing that they will someday become Christians and eventually inherit immortality. Her efforts are often taken for granted and even unappreciated by some, but you can be sure that God notices her great labors! The greatest attributes of a godly mother are love, service to the Almighty, and sacrifice. Isn't it interesting that these are the same qualities that were in Jesus, our Lord and Savior?
Mothers should be appreciated every day of the year. Fathers should help and encourage their wives in the rearing of the children. Children should obey, be respectful, love, and appreciate all that a godly mother has done for them. "Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee" (Exodus 20:12). "For Moses said, Honour thy father and thy mother; and, Whoso curseth father or mother, let him die the death" (Mark 7:10).
When mothers get older they are still mothers, and they should never, on any occasion, be treated with contempt and disrespect. "Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old" (Proverbs 23:22). The children owe this, and so much more to their mothers. When Jesus was dying on the cross, He turned His mother over to the care of the apostle John. "Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son! Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home" (John 19:25-27). The Son of God demonstrated His love and respect for His dear mother. How about you?
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"Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come. She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her. Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all. Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised. Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates." Proverbs 31:25-31