On Sunday, we celebrated Mother’s Day, expressing gratitude for the incredible gift of mothers and their profound impact on our lives. As believers, we understand motherhood is a sacred calling infused with love, sacrifice, and God’s grace. I have often referred to spiritual moms as those who are not necessarily biological moms but serve as mother figures to others for the cause of Christ.
Proverbs 31:26-28 beautifully captures the essence of a godly mother: “She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.” Now, it is essential to note that the picture presented here is an ideal; it is meant to offer a framework for understanding godly womanhood.
A mother’s role extends beyond physical care; she plays a crucial role in spiritually, emotionally, and mentally nurturing her children. Just as God nurtures and cares for His children, mothers reflect His love and compassion in their everyday actions. In Proverbs 22:6, we’re reminded of the importance of a mother’s guidance: “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old, he will not depart from it.” This observation is worth noting and emulating.
Mothers exemplify the sacrificial love that Jesus taught us. John 15:13 says, “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” Mothers often sacrifice their own needs and desires for the sake of their children, embodying the selfless love modeled by Christ. My Mom indeed expressed such love for my brother and me.
Furthermore, the Bible teaches us about mothers’ strength and resilience. Proverbs 31:25 states, “Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come.” In times of adversity, mothers draw strength from their faith and trust in God’s providence, inspiring us all with their unwavering courage. My Mom came to Christ when I was 15. I came to Christ when I was 5. However, she was an example of strength and dignity, while spiritual moms exemplified faith. I am thankful for both. I am grateful my Mom became a lady of faith as well.
As we honor mothers, let’s remember to express our gratitude and appreciation for their unconditional love. Ephesians 6:2-3 reminds us of the commandment with a promise: “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise—”so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” Paul is teaching here that honoring our moms is a sign that we genuinely know God and results in us being blessed by the Lord.
Ultimately, Mother’s Day is a time to reflect on the profound blessings of motherhood and to thank God for the precious gift of mothers, whether biological, spiritual, or both, in our lives. Let’s celebrate their love, emulate their virtues, and honor them as representatives of God’s grace and wisdom. How could we do any less? Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!