Proverbs 31

Mother’s Day is special to all of us

Greetings and Blessings of joy and peace to all mothers. This is a day to celebrate all mothers for their role in nurturing the next generation – whether children, teens or grown-ups. For in a mother’s heart her son or daughter will always be a ‘child’ to her; a child in the sense of a precious one worthy of her attention, protection and provision. And that is why Mother’s Day is special to all of us.

Indeed, may all mothers receive special appreciation and praise from their loved ones today as a recognition of their noble work.

May we appreciate and treasure all the noble women that the Lord has blessed us with in our lives.

28 Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:
29 “Many women do noble things,
but you surpass them all.” (Proverbs 31, NIV)

Truly this role of mother is not confined to mothers with biological children and we want also to acknowledge the many aunties, ‘big sisters’ and spiritual mums who have this nurturing heart and are ‘special mothers’ to those under their care. We honour you too.

I believe the description of this noble woman in Proverbs 31 who is a wife and mother has significance for all of us. Her character is one that all of us should emulate.

Of first priority is that she fears the Lord – Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who “fears the Lord” is to be praised (v30). Her noble character is “worth far more than rubies” (v10). And why is she such a treasure to her family? We can find answers in the following verses:

• She gets up while it is still night; she provides food for her family and portions for her female servants (v15)
• She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy (v20)
• She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come (v25)
• She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue (v26)
• She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness (27)

The family of this noble woman do not fear lack; they are in good hands and have a warm and secure home. She treats her helpers with love and guides those around her with wisdom and care. She sets a good example of responsibility and diligence for the next generation.

May we appreciate and treasure all the noble women that the Lord has blessed us with in our lives.