A Tribute to My Mom

Mother's Day is fast approaching and with it come thoughts of my mother. My mother is one of my best friends. Some of you may not know it but I talk to my mom almost every day. She lives in New Hampshire and I am not able to see her very often although the closeness we share is something that many miles can not take away.

When I think of my mother, "Godly woman" is what comes to mind. My mother is one that sets an example of what a Godly woman is. Her relationship with the Lord is evident and she lives out that relationship on a daily basis. She treats others with love and kindness.

The Bible talks about a wife of noble character. Proverbs 31:10-31 says, "A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life. She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands. She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar. She gets up while it is still dark; she provides food for her family and portions for her servant girls. She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard. She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for the tasks. She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night. In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers. She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy. When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet. She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple. Her husband is respected at the city, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land. She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes. She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: 'Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.' Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate."

Do you have to do all of these things that are described here to be considered a wife of noble character? I don't think so. Superwoman does not really exist. My mother didn't sew a lot, she didn't buy fields, and she didn't have servants. She did however shop for our clothes, always had food for us, was there when we needed her and most of all, she feared the LORD and still does to this day. I always remember my mother being up before everyone else. During that time she had her quiet time with the Lord because that was where she received her strength.

My mother was never into the latest clothing or fashion although she took care in how she looked. 1 Peter 3:3-4 says, "Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight."

I believe my mom is a great example of what a wife and mother should be. I thank the Lord for such a Godly example. My prayer is to be that kind of example to my own kids. Thank you Mom! Happy Mother's Day!