She is worth far more than rubies.

Proverbs 31:10

Mothers deserve more than one day of recognition for the service they provide to the world. Now that Mother’s Day is past, here are five reasons to keep praising the mothers you know every single day of the year:

 

  1. She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. (Proverbs 31:25)

Mothers choose the behaviors of love again and again as their relationships with their children develop. They exhibit mind-blowing levels of patience, kindness, humility, respectfulness, selflessness, forgiveness, honesty, and commitment. No matter what kids do, their mothers love them unconditionally. Children know this. That’s why “Mom” is so often the go-to person when it’s time to talk through major life concerns and decisions.

Mothers provide strength, levity, and perspective. Through modeling, they teach their children how to retain their dignity in the midst of life’s most brutal challenges. “This too shall pass,” Mothers say. And so, their children learn to endure and even develop a sense of humor about the inevitability of change.

 

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

Mothers save their children from purposeless lives. They illustrate what it looks like to move through life with purpose, vision, and values. Mothers are very clear about their expectations in this area and they leave nothing to chance about the positive future that they see and want for their children. They engage their children and create an environment of development. They let children know how important they are to the work of the family, and that their children’s work is particularly meaningful in the achievement of the family’s purpose.

 

  1. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. (Proverbs 31:27)

Mothers put their own hopes and dreams last. They understand that, after they’ve had children, their most pressing concern isn’t what they want, but what their children need.

Mothers set up boundaries for their children and then empower them to spread their wings and be in control of their goals. They cheer them on and provide positive encouragement for each and every accomplishment. This is tireless work! Mothers never get to rest…not even when they sleep.

 

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

Mothers constantly stretch their children out to be the very best that they can be. In doing this, they inspire their husbands, too. Who else can so expertly blend strength and compassion in order to draw out the potential of their children?

 

  1. Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the lord is to be praised. (Proverbs 31:30)

 Mothers are vulnerable, always wanting to be better, and always knowing that their children are watching them, learning how to live a life of service. So many of the superficial things they prioritized before take a back seat once they have children.

Because they “clear their plates” of extraneous concerns, mothers free themselves up to become outstanding listeners. Instead of worrying about fleeting standards of “charm” or “beauty,” mothers focus on modeling the things that truly matter. They exude grace and empathy, character and compassion. These are the things husbands and children truly value in women as they age.

Husbands and fathers, do you agree?

I know I will always be thankful for the outstanding model of servant leadership my Mom was for me. She always thought about others before herself, and was tireless in her efforts to be the very best for not only her children and my Dad, but also for everyone she came into contact with. She lived to serve! I would not be the person I am today if it were not for my Mom’s love, guidance and direction throughout my formative years.

What impact on servant leadership did your Mom have on you? How are you going to keep praising the mothers you know every single day this year?

Blessings,

My son, keep your father’s command and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.

Proverbs 6:20