Encouragement for Mothers

Contentment is almost an extinct virtue, yet it is one of the greatest blessings in the world. The Word of God calls us to be content. In fact, Paul shares with us in 1 Timothy 6 that godliness with contentment is great gain and that food and clothing are all we need to be content

One of my favorite descriptions and pictures of the Proverbs 31 woman is that of her watching over her family and home: “She watches over the ways of her household” (Proverbs 31:27). As wives, mothers, and homemakers, we wear many hats as we discharge our duties at home. And there’s no doubt that one of our most important duties is that of a “watchwoman.”

When I taught elementary school, I could not “wing it” when teaching my students. I had to think ahead about the year’s schedule. I had to search for effective teaching materials and look up creative ideas. I spent hours planning each lesson to give my students the building blocks they needed to succeed in the next grade and beyond.

God tells us in Deuteronomy 6:6-7 to, “Teach them to your children diligently.” The “them” is what you are to teach—God’s Word and His commands. And “diligently” is how you are to teach—with purpose, and conscientiously as a task or duty.

Be the primary role model and teacher of truth.

When our children are growing up in our home, we seek to train their spiritual sensitivity so they can “distinguish good from evil” (Hebrews 5:14). We examine what’s going on in our home. We desire to protect them from ungodly influences and dangers. Then they leave the nest.

Just like you and me, Jesus’ disciples seemed to need help with praying. Wisely, they asked Jesus, “Lord, teach us to pray” (Luke 11:1). Jesus then gave them—and us—a model or sample prayer to pray. This prayer is usually referred to as the Lord’s Prayer.

Consider God’s choice of Mary as the mother of His Son. Mary was young and probably not from a prominent or wealthy family. The Bible doesn’t give any details about her physical appearance or information about her father and mother. We are not told of any outstanding characteristics Mary had… except of her love for God and her deep trust in Him.

Many of us juggle responsibilities in our homes, churches, families, and communities, feeling alone in the middle of such busyness and efforts. But there’s nothing believers will have to do or bear alone. Here's why.

Becoming an empty nester presents many unexpected challenges, especially when we have been used to living in a home bustling with children. For years, our calendar was marked with school projects, sporting events, youth groups, and family meals around the table. Now we have an abundance of free time, and we want to steward it well.

I've studied the verses of Proverbs 31 for many years. This woman has at times both intimidated and inspired me. While it took me years to begin to understand the purpose of these passages, I have always prayed for my husband and children to fulfill Proverbs 31:28, which says, “Her children rise up and bless her; her husband also.”

Memorial Day heralds the beginning of summer. To students, it begins the countdown to summer vacation. Often summer schedules are hectic with family members going in every direction for sports, camps, social activities, or college preparation. Don’t let your summer get away from you!

No matter what you do with each day or in your life, doing anything God’s way is a matter of the heart. Whether it’s deciding how to spend your money or your time, how you treat people, how you dress, or how you accomplish your work, your choices reveal the treasure of your heart.