The Marvelous Mom

By Michael Youssef, Ph.D.

There are several women in the Bible that are highlighted as examples of character and faith in the Lord. But the most complete description of a woman of noble character is found in Proverbs 31.

We are tempted to believe that today's wife and mother wears far more hats than the woman of yesteryear. The modern mom is a cook, chauffeur, fashion consultant, tutor, seamstress, money-manager, cheerleader, counselor, and nurse — and that is just the short list.

However, when we read Proverbs 31, we read a description of a woman who was the equivalent of all of those things and more. In this chapter, Solomon details the qualities of a marvelous mom of any era.

Worth: A virtuous woman's worth far surpasses worldly wealth. (verse 10)

Wholeness: Her influence brings completion to the family and they lack nothing of true value. (verse 11)

Workmanship: A marvelous mom is eagerly at work meeting her household's spiritual, physical, and emotional needs. (verses 12-15)

Wealth management: She is a sharp woman financially. Her business deals are researched and profitable. She plans diligently for her family's financial future. (verses 16, 18, 24)

Willingness to serve: "She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy" (verse 20). She does not turn a blind eye to the needs around her.

Watchfulness: She anticipates her family's needs and arranges for their care before they ever feel the need. "When it snows," says the Scripture, "she has no fear for her household, all of them are clothed in scarlet" (verse 21).

Wisdom and Wholesome Speech: She faithfully instructs her family with godly wisdom. Her speech is seasoned with salt. She knows when a word of rebuke, a word of encouragement, a word of conviction, or a word of kindness is needed. She controls her tongue. She speaks a word in due season. (verse 26)

Worthiness of praise: She is praised by all who know her. Not only is she praised but her husband is respected and honored, too. (verses 23, 28-31)

Worship: Above all of her other qualities, she fears the Lord and maintains a spirit of worship. "Charm is deceitful and beauty is fleeting, but the woman who fears the Lord is to be praised" (verse 30).

Solomon's description is not of the perfect woman. Perfection belongs to God alone and it is unrealistic and unattainable this side of heaven. However, the wife and mother of noble character is always seeking to serve and to care for her family and is bringing daily glory to God. She is not perfect but she is a rare treasure.

This Mother's Day, celebrate your marvelous Mom by thanking God for her and by sharing your praise with her for her hard work in your life.