Portrait of a Mother (#164)

Bible version used: NIV

A most beautiful portrait of a Christian mother is given to us in the Bible. Chapter 31 of the book of Proverbs portrays for us those qualities of heart and mind that make a true mother.

If you have a mother who is like this portrait, be sure to thank her while you can. If you are a mother, ask God to help you to be like this mother.

Here are the qualities the writer lists for us:

WISDOM: She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. Proverbs 31:26

INDUSTRY: She gets up while it is still dark; she provides food for her family... She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. Verses 15, 17

GENEROSITY: She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy. Verse 20

FAITHFULNESS: Her husband has full confidence in her... She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life. Verses 11, 12

CHARACTER: She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. Verse 25

FAITH: Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Verse 30

Why should a mother who trusts in the Lord be praised, rather than one who has charm and beauty? Because true happiness for herself and her children can be found only when they are in a right relationship with Jesus Christ.

A mother with these qualities is to be thanked. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her; Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all. Verses 28, 29

That’s quite a portrait! Is it your portrait? Do you have these qualities of heart and mind? Do you have the beauty that comes through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ? God can give you these qualities through the power of faith and the gift of the Holy Spirit.
May you excel in the noble, demanding, and often thankless task of being a mother! John T. Ebbers