They Shall Rise and Call Her Blessed

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.”

Wise Parenting

I'll admit that, in the beginning, most of my prayers were somewhat selfish in nature. I desired to know I'd done the right thing and wanted to feel appreciation from the people who mean the most to me in this world. I didn't always get what I asked for. There were times when my children made decisions that caused me to question them. These were times to teach, pray, and love them despite those decisions.

As wise parents, we commit to this responsibility. We must own it. We must dedicate ourselves to be faithful to what God is calling us to do as a parent. As we are faithful to follow God’s instructions to us to teach His wisdom to our children, He will faithfully enable us to do it. Lean on Him. Talk to Him. Trust in Him. Desire to be a mom after God’s own heart—a mother who will do all God’s will, including teaching wisdom to your precious ones.

Look for the Blessings

The beautiful thing about my quest to have my children rise and call me blessed is that every time my children disappointed me, God used it as a lesson for both of us. These obstacles in our faith walk became opportunities.

It was a chance for me to see where my child's heart really was so I could focus my teachable moments with them. It was an opportunity for me to realize my children's well being and Christ-like behavior was about their relationship with God and not about me receiving praise for my efforts to teach them. I needed to get over myself to elevate my children spiritually.

Once that happened God did something wonderful. He caused my children to rise and bless me! No, they didn't run into the kitchen one morning saying mom you are a blessed woman or call me the best of anything. In fact, they never uttered a word. It was in their "rising" that I received my blessing:

• Seeing my children with arms stretched out in worship and a heartfelt praise coming forth from their very core...I am blessed.
• Lying in bed with fever and having my child lay hands on me in prayer and feeling the power of the Holy Spirit....I am blessed.
• Overhearing a conversation and my child declined to go to a close friends house because no parents would be there...I am blessed.
• Seeing my children grow and prosper with their own families now…I am blessed.

I could go on and on about the blessings I’ve received over the years, but you get the idea. These blessings are so much greater than passing accolades or praises sung to appease a mama's heart. These blessings have eternal value.

RESPOND:

Dear Lord, You are with me every step of the way in this parenting job. I am excited to share You with my child by living out Your goodness. When I need a boost, a creative idea, or an attitude adjustment, Your ever-present hope brings relief and renewal. Amen.

RENEWING RESOURCES:

Proverbs for a Woman’s Day by Elizabeth George covers the matters closest to your heart, including how to train and enjoy your children. Don’t miss out on this uplifting Bible Study!

REFLECT:

What has been your impression when you’ve heard about or read Proverbs 31 for yourself? What has your child(ren) risen up and done in the past that blessed you?

REMEMBER:

As a wise parent, we commit to this responsibility. Our children's well being and Christ-like behavior is about their relationship with God and not about us receiving praise for our efforts to teach them.