Mothers

No surprise about my topic or picture today! We celebrated Mother's Day today. I didn't know much about the history of Mother's day until I researched it a little. Ann Jarvis wanted to honor her mother back in 1908 and held a memorial for her. She then tried to get it to be wide known throughout America and it was by 1914. 

We may not all be mothers but we have all had a mother and I for one am extremely thankful for mine. My mom greatly influenced my life. I am thankful for the godly heritage from my parents and the godly example shown through my mom's life. She has become my best friend as I became an adult and I am thankful for her unwavering support in all I do and unconditional love. I love you mama!

Thirteen years ago we moved 1200 miles away from each other. I had never been more than about 12 miles from my mom so this was not only a challenge but something extremely odd for me. Long distance calling became quite common and we have enjoyed the times that we are able to spend together.

When we moved the Lord was good and provided 2 different "mom" figures to help fill the gap and I want to mention them here. My mom and I are thankful for both of them.

Carolyn became my mom while she lived here and I am thankful for her love and concern and friendship. We had lots of trips and fun times together. She has now moved out of state to be near her three children and I miss her a ton but am glad we still get to visit and spend time together. I love you!

Then God brought Gail into my life and I have become the 4th daughter in their family. She challenges me in my Christian walk and is there to talk to and spend time with. She and I enjoy our bible study time and tea time together. She is a wonderful shopping buddy and I am blessed to spend time with her and the rest of her family. She shows true grace and dependence on the Lord in trials and is a wonderful example to me. I love you Florida Mom!!

God knows what we need and provides them exactly. He has blessed me greatly now as I have become a mom to 2 wonderful children. I strive to live the example of what I have been shown in  being a godly mother for my children.

The verses that I want to share tonight depict my mother as well as the other 2 women that have impacted me greatly. My prayer is that as my children look back on my life that they can say that I also have the qualities of the Proverbs 31 woman.

 Proverbs 31:10-31:

   10Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.

   11The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.

   12She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.

   13She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.

   14She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar.

   15She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.

   16She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.

   17She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.

   18She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.

   19She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.

   20She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.

   21She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.

   22She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.

   23Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders at the gate.

   24She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.

   25Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.

   26She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.

   27She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.

   28Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.

   29Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.

   30Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.

   31Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.

If you still have your mother in your life then hug her and let her know you love her-mend any fences and reconcile your differences for there is no other relationship like a mother-daughter. If your mom is gone then remember the good times and be thankful for the time that God allowed her to be a part of your life. She will never truly be gone since we all are a small part of our mom! If you are a mom then strive, with God's help, to be the best mom that you can be. Raise your children up in the Lord one day at a time and dedicate them to Him. If they are already grown then enjoy them and be available to still help when asked.