asnoteftb@comcast.net
Welcome!
This “Spiritual Note” is dedicated to all Mothers!
A MOTHERS LOVE AND PRAYERS CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE !
“…And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way,
and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.” – Deuteronomy 6: 6-7
Someone asked a mother whose children had turned out very well the secret by which she had prepared them for usefulness and for the Christian life.
Without hesitation she answered:
“When I washed my children, I prayed that they might be cleansed by the Saviour’s precious blood.
“When I put on their garments, I prayed that they might be arrayed in the garments of salvation and in the robe of God’s righteousness.
“When I gave them food, I prayed that they might be fed with the Bread of Life.
“When I started them on the road to school, I prayed that their faith might be as the shining light, brighter and brighter to the perfect day.
“When I put them to sleep, I prayed that they might be enfolded in the Saviour’s everlasting arms.”
Dear Friend, no wonder her children were early led to a saving knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ and became adornments to the doctrine of God our
Saviour in all things! What a joy to that mother’s heart when her children rise up and call her blessed! Now that her secret has been revealed, may
hosts of other mothers follow it.
Martin Luther always testified that much of the blessing of his life was due to the influence of his mother. It was said of her that
“She was a worthy woman, distinguished above all else for her modesty and fear of God and constant communion with God in prayer.”
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M – O – T – H – E – R
“M” is for the million things she gave me,
“O” ans only that she’s growing old,
“T” is for the tears she shed to save me,
“H” for her heart of purest gold;
“E” is for her eyes, with love-light shining,
“R” means right, and right she’ll always be,
Put them all together, they spell
“MOTHER”
A word that means the world to me.
-Howard Johnson
*
Mother is a woman who can take the place of all others, but whose place no one else can take.
“Of all the rights of women, the greatest is to be a mother.”
-Lin Yutang
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“Men are what their mothers made them.”
– Ralph Waldo Emerson
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Any woman can be a mother but it takes someone special to be a mommy.
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“An ounce of mother is worth a ton of priest.”
-Spanish proverb
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The danger of not raising our children for the Lord is not so much that they
will grow up not believing, but that they will believe anything.
*
The most important thing a father can do for his children is to love their Mother.
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“A wise woman once said to me:
‘There are only two lasting bequests we can hope to give our children.
One of these is roots; the other, wings.”
-Hodding Carter
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“Let parents bequeath to their children not riches, but the spirit of reverence.”
-Plato
*
Guy Doud tells the story of Billy, a boy born with no external ears.
He had auditory canals, so he was able to hear and was normal except for His appearance.
As a result, Billy suffered cruel ridicule from classmates throughout his school years.
While attending college, Billy received a call from his father informing him that a donor was found, and a successful transplant operation was performed.
Six months later, Billy received the shocking news that his mother had died of a heart attack.
At the funeral home, Billy’s dad looked at his son and said, “You never knew how much your mother loved you.”
With that remark, his father brushed back his wife’s long hair to reveal she had no ears.
She had given them to her son.
*
A young woman died in a blinding blizzard in Wales. A search team found her body beneath a mound of snow.
Before she died, she had removed her coat and wrapped it around her baby.
The child lived because of his mother’s sacrifice.
Years later, this baby, David Lloyd George, grew up to become the prime minister of of the United Kingdom,
and one of the greatest Britons of the Twentieth Century.
*
John Scudder, a promising young physician in New York, while visiting one of his patients one day many years ago,
picked up a tract on the table and read it. The result was that he and his wife went to India as missionaries.
Their nine children, seven sons and two daughters, all became missionaries in that land.When Mr. Scudder was asked as to the cause of all this he said,
“The only explanation I can give is the prayers of their Mother.
She was accustomed to spend the birthday of each child in all-day prayers for him.
God answered her prayers.”
*
“… Do not forsake your mother’s teaching.
Bind them upon your heart forever; fasten them around your neck.”
-Proverbs 6:20-21
*
“Honour thy father and thy mother, as the LORD thy God hath commanded thee;
that thy days may be prolonged, and that it may go well with thee..”
-Deuteronomy 5:16
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And He Created Mother’s
http://www.momof9splace.com/
A Mother’s Love http://www.spiritisup.com/
When Mother’s Pray http://www.spiritisup.com/
Gift For You Mum http://www.spiritisup.com/
*
Roses for Mama
(Video-Music) http://www.youtube.com/watch?
(lyrics) http://holyjoe.net/poetry/
No Charge
(Video-Music) http://www.youtube.com/watch?
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Dear Friend, a mother’s love knows no limits for her children.
Think about the sacrifices your mother made for your sake.
Tell her thanks for all she’s done for you!
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Hymns & Songs (Music Clips)
My Mother’s Bible http://www.oldchristianmusic.
http://www.jlfoundation.net/
Mother’s Prayers Have Followed Me http://www.oldchristianmusic.
Dust On Mother’s Bible
A Spiritual Note from the Bible. A Free International e-mail Ministry by Ted Matamis- You can find a variety of articles, comments, MP3 messages, DVD, etc.
It’s covers worn with age
And though it’s old and wrinkled
Mama’s there on every page.
The night the angels called her
Mama called me to her side
And handed me her Bible
Said “Son let God be your guide”
Chorus:
I picked up Mother’s old Bible
To my heart I pressed it tight
And I heard her soulfully whisper
“Son I’ll meet you on the other side”.
I kissed my Mother’s old Bible
And I wiped away the dust
Oh, you’ll never know until she’s gone
How you’ll miss your Mother’s love.
Chorus:
“Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.”
– Proverbs 31:28
Lora and Fred had three young boys. After a few years Lora needed to go back to work. The busy couple tried to juggle their work schedules so they
could provide as much of the care for their preschoolers as possible. After a few weeks of the new plan, Lora asked Fred, “When I am with them lately,
the boys have been asking me about religion, life and death. When you are alone with them, what do they ask you?” Fred simply replied, “They ask me,
“Where is Mommy?”
Dear Friend, where is your Mommy? How much do you love and appreciate her while she lives? After their Mommy dies, many kids say that they loved her
and remember her and they even put flowers on her grave. But they never showed their real love and appreciation in words and deeds while she lived.
Possibly they never told her sincerely, even one time, “I love you, Mommy.” Try not to be like them, but make sure you express your appreciation for her
in thought and deed not only on Mother’s Day, but every day. Women who raise children have a special place in God’s heart. Let your mother know
she has one in yours!
“The love of a mother is never exhausted.”
– Washington Irving
A Child
“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it”
– Proverbs 22:6
I took a piece of plastic clay
And idly fashioned it one day;
And as my fingers pressed it still
It bent and yielded to my will.
I came again when days were past
The bit of clay was hard at last;
My early impress still it bore
And I could change it nevermore.
You take a piece of living clay
And gently form it day by day;
Molding with your power and art
A young child’s soft, yielding heart.
Coming again when years are gone,
It is an adult you look upon.
Your early impress still is borne
And you can change it nevermore!
–A.J. Smith
*
Mother’s Tribute
The Bible in the Home
It is told of the mother of a family whose husband was an unbeliever and openly jested at religion,
that she nevertheless succeeded in bringing all her children up in the fear of the Lord.
When she was asked how she managed this, she said: “Because to the authority of a father I did not oppose the authority of a mother, but that of God.
From their earliest years my children have always seen the Bible on my table.
his Holy Book has constituted the whole of their religious instruction.
I was silent, that I might allow it to speak.
Did they propose a question, did they commit any fault, did they perform any good action–
I opened the Bible, and the Bible answered, reproved or encouraged them.
The constant reading of the Scriptures alone has wrought the prodigy which surprises you.”
*
“All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel Mother.”
-President, Abraham Lincoln
“The mother’s heart is the child’s schoolroom.”
– Henry Ward Beecher (1813-1887)
For God So Loved the World
_____________
FOR GOD
SO LOVED
THE WORLD
THAT HE
GAVE HIS
______________________________
ONE AND ONLY SON
______________________________
THAT
WHOEVER
BELIEVES
IN HIM
SHALL NOT
PERISH
BUT HAVE
ETERNAL
LIFE.
_____________
John 3:16
_____________
God loved the world. Do you?
Where will
you spend
ETERNITY?
Eternal Hell – THINK ABOUT !
How Can I Go To Heaven? (Video) By Dr. James A. Scudder
http://www.vigmedia.com/tv/
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God Loves You! “I Have Always Loved You!”
http://www.texaspepper.net/1.
Bridge To Life
http://www.navigators.org/us/
God’s Simple Plan in Many Languages
http://www.godssimpleplan.org/
Christian flash animation of the plan of salvation for kids.
http://thegoodnews.org/CD/
http://www.kidzplace.org/atf/
http://www.kidzplace.org/atf/
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Repent, Believe, Be Baptized
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“What is born of the flesh is flesh; and that what is born of the Spirit is spirit.”
– John 3:6
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http://images2.layoutsparks.
You Need Him The Most Important Decision of Your Life
http://888.needhim.org/
Come on home, Jesus is still waiting for you…
“Taste and see that the Lord is GOOD.”
– Psalm 34:8
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves:
it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast”
-Ephesians 2:8,9
Dear Friend,
If you need spiritual help please don’t hesitate to email us at:
asnoteftb@comcast.net
If you are interested in speaking to someone right now about how to begin
a personal relationship with Jesus Christ call at:
888-NEED HIM or 888-633-3446
If you want to talk to somebody in person, please contact the pastor or the missionary
of a Bible believing church in your area.
*
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”
-Hebrews 13:8
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“I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last.”
-Revelation 22:13
Prayer Requests
Pray for Jarrett, a 26 year old engineer, who has been diagnosed with cancer in its final 4th stage.
They found a tumor in his lungs and the cancer has moved to his bones and all over his body.
He works under my son, who is trying to comfort and minister to him and his parents.
Please pray that a miracle takes place and that the treatment he will receive will cure him and that the Lord will be glorified. .
Pray for JAPAN
Pray for all the different countries and individuals who are facing troubles around the world.
Pray for all missionaries, pastors and many others who are in God’s work
around the world.
Pray for all persecuted Christians all over the world that the Lord will
give them strength, provision and protection.
Pray for the protection of all Americans who serve the Lord around the world
at this time.
Pray for our President, our Leaders, our Nation and our Armed Forces.
Pray for all who have health situations, that the Lord will answer their
prayers according to His will.
Pray for those with financial difficulties due to the world’s economy.
Pray for more laborers to be sent forth into the harvest.
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A lot of kneeling will keep you in good standing.
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Prayer is taking our troubles to God…Faith is leaving them there.
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“I love the LORD, because he hath heard my voice and my supplications.
Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon him as
long as I live.”
-Psalm 116:1& 2
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PRAY For One Another
Testimonies
“Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering;
not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?”
-Romans 2:4
Evangelist Rufus Jones remembered one day when he was 13, his mother went to town, leaving him behind on the farm with some chores. Some friends came by
and Rufus forgot his chores. When he saw his mother’s car pull into the driveway that evening, his heart sank. He knew he was in for one of the
worst whippings of his life. Rufus said he would always remember what happened next. Instead of punishment, His mother took him upstairs into the
bedroom, knelt down beside him, wrapped him in her arms, and with tears streaming down her face, prayed one phrase over and over: “Lord, make a man
out of him.” Jones’ life was changed through the weeping arms of love.
Dear Friend, are you afraid God will give you what you deserve? Do you live in anticipation of a divine spanking? God doesn’t use fear to drive you to
Him. His mercy and grace are given even when you are most undeserving. Let His goodness draw you into His arms of love.
“Grace is free sovereign favor to the undeserving.”
-Benjamin B. Warfield
*
“… Do not forsake your mother’s teaching.
Bind them upon your heart forever; fasten them around your neck.”
-Proverbs 6:20-21
In one memorable scene from “Raisin in the Sun”, an American Christian mother is confronted by her daughter’s angry skepticism. “Mama, you don’t
understand. God is one idea I just don’t accept.… There is simply no … God.” With dignity and strength, the mother says, ‘I want you to repeat this
after me…in my mother’s house there is still God.” After a long pause, the daughter slowly acknowledges, saying “In my mother’s house there is still
God.”
Dear Mothers, do you want to leave a legacy of faith? Then
MAKE SURE YOU SHARE THE LORD WITH YOUR CHILDREN !
Whether they are young or grown, a mother has a powerful influence on the beliefs of her children.
Always remind your offspring that God’s still alive in Mama’s house!
A Blessed Mother’s Day!
“Before you were conceived I wanted you.
Before you were born I loved you.
Before you were here an hour I would die for you. This is the miracle of life.”
-Maureen Hawkins
Verses From God’s Word
“Honour thy father and thy mother:
that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.”
-Exodus 20:12
“Ye shall fear every man his mother, and his father…”
-Leviticus 19:3
“Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.”
-Proverbs 31:28
“Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise.”
-Ephesians 6:2
“A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish man despiseth his mother.”
-Proverbs 15:20
“Whoso curseth his father or his mother, his lamp shall be put out in obscure darkness.”
-Proverbs 20:20
“The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.”
-Proverbs 29:15
“He maketh the barren woman to keep house, and to be a joyful mother of children. Praise ye the LORD. “
-Psalm 113:9
“My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother.”
-Proverbs 1:8
“And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children,
and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house,
and when thou liest down,
-Deuteronomy 6: 6-7
Fundamental Fire Preaching
“Preach the word;
be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke,
exhort with all long suffering and doctrine.”
-2 Timothy 4:2
______________________________
“The best way to revive a church is to build a fire in the pulpit.”
-D. L. Moody
______________________________
Messages
by Dr. Calvin Ray Evans
Influence of a Mother & Grandmother
*
by Dr. Rod Bell Sr.
A Mother that Loved to the End
http://www.sermonaudio.com/
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by Dr. John Barnett
How to Be Godly Mothers and Wives
http://www.sermonaudio.com/
How to Encourage an Excellent Mother
http://www.sermonaudio.com/
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by Dr. David Peacock
How Well Do You Know Your Mother?
http://www.sermonaudio.com/
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by Dr. J. Drew Conley
How to Honor Your Mother
http://www.sermonaudio.com/
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by Dr. Wayne Joyce
Three Mothers of the Bible
http://www.sermonaudio.com/
Hannah – A Godly Mother
http://www.sermonaudio.com/
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By Pastor, Missionary and Evangelist Paul Washer
Sermon at Barbara Washer’s (Paul’s Mother) Funeral Service
http://www.sermonaudio.com/
*
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Music
For The Christian Family
Hymns & Songs (Music Clips)
My Mother’s Gentle Love By Ron Hamilton
http://www.oldchristianmusic.
Love You Lord (Orchestra)
http://www.oldchristianmusic.
I Love You, Lord (Choir)
http://www.oldchristianmusic.
I Love You Lord With More Precious Than Gold (Orchestra)
http://www.oldchristianmusic.
Thank You Lord (Piano)
http://www.oldchristianmusic.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Interesting Web Sites
Tribute to Mothers http://www.entourages.com/
Mothers in the Bible http://freepages.religions.
Teach Your Children their “ABC’s http://www.momof9splace.com/
Mom do you have a lost or wayward child? http://www.momof9splace.com/
Leading Our Children To Christ? http://www.momof9splace.com/
Mary Says, Obey My Son! http://www.momof9splace.com/
Letters to Mothers http://jefferson.village.
How to Be A Great Mother http://www.momof9splace.com/
Mom of 9’s Place http://www.momof9splace.com/
The Influence of a Godly Mother http://www.intouch.org/about/
A Key to Successful Parenting https://store.intouch.org/p-
Today Is Mother’s Day! http://www.sermonsearch.com/
Honoring Mom http://www.sermonsearch.com/
Mother’s Day: Conceived by Faith
http://www.sermonsearch.com/
A Godly Mother Ain’t Like No Other
http://www.sermonsearch.com/
A Mom’s Priorities http://www.sermonsearch.com/
A Mother’s Living Legacy http://www.sermonsearch.com/
A Mother’s Faith: A Message For Mothers
http://www.sermonsearch.com/
A Tribute to Our Mothers http://www.sermonsearch.com/
A Mother’s Great Gift http://www.sermonsearch.com/
Honoring Father And Mother
http://www.sermonsearch.com/
Honoring Our Parents Always
http://www.lwf.org/site/
How Should We Honor Our Parents -A Foretaste of Heaven
http://www.oneplace.com/
* * *
Christian Links http://www.zeitun-eg.org/
Greek Audio Links to Listen to Greek http://www.biblicalgreek.org/
Biblical Sites in Greece http://www.meandertravel.com/
KJV Concord Wide Margin Reference Bible http://www.google.com/
Grace Video Ministries http://www.gracevideos.com/
* * *
VIDEOS
The Influence of a Godly Mother http://vidego.multicastmedia.
Mama And The Bible http://www.youtube.com/watch?
Mothers who are no longer with us http://www.inspiringthots.net/
My Mother Kept a Garden http://www.youtube.com/watch?
Mother Taught Me http://www.youtube.com/watch?
All About Jesus http://www.dayspring.com/
Real Christianity http://www.youtube.com/watch?
* * *
GREETING CARDS
My Mother’s Bible http://www.fathershands.com/
A Mother’s Love http://www.spiritisup.com/
Famous Mothers http://www.spiritisup.com/
A Mother’s Treasure http://www.spiritisup.com/
A Mothers Loving Prayer http://www.spiritisup.com/
A Mother’s Touch http://www.spiritisup.com/
A Flower For Mommy http://www.spiritisup.com/
A Mother’s Prayer http://www.momof9splace.com/
A Mother’s Bible http://www.csoakley.com/bible.
I’ll Always Remember http://www.spiritisup.com/
My Mother’s Bible http://www.angelfire.com/co/
DAYSPRING E-CARDS http://www.dayspring.com/
KJV Greetings http://www.momof9splace.com/
(youtube) Free Christian eCards (for Get Well)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?
(youtube) Free Christian eCards
(Birthday)http://www.youtube.
Blue Mountain E-Cards http://www.bluemountain.com/
Free Christian Ecards http://www.christianecards.
http://www.crosswalk.com/
http://www.christianet.com/
Heartlight HeartCards http://cards.heartlight.org/
Inspirational E-cards http://www.narrowisthepath.
http://asandboxgreeting.com/
Promise Of God http://www.promiseofgod.com/
NEWS
Big Health Report.com
http://bighealthreport.com/Christian Examiner http://www.christianexaminer.
Christian Reader http://christianreader.com/
Zionica http://zionica.com/
Center for Individual Freedom http://www.cfif.org
Religious Freedom Coalition http://www.
Vision to America http://visiontoamerica.org/
HUMAN EVENTS http://www.humanevents.com/
Liberty Counsel http://www.lc.org/
Patriot Update http://patriotupdate.com/
The Heritage Foundation http://www.heritage.org/
Media Matters for America http://mediamatters.org/
Eyeblast.tv http://eyeblast.tv/public/
THE BLAZE http://www.theblaze.com/
Big Government http://biggovernment.com/
Public Advocate of the United States http://www.publicadvocateusa.
Town Hall http://townhall.com/
Newsmax.com http://www.newsmax.com/
GOPUSA http://www.gopusa.com/
ACLJ Β• American Center for Law & Justice http://www.aclj.org/
United States Justice Foundation http://www.usjf.net/
FoxNews.com
http://www.foxnews.com/
http://www.foxnews.com/
RT – http://rt.com/usa/
WorldNetDaily-A Free Press For A Free People http://wnd.com/
CNSnews-The Right News, Right Now http://www.cnsnews.com/public/
Illinois Family Institute http://www.illinoisfamily.org/
ABYZ News Links http://www.abyznewslinks.com/
News and Newspapers Online http://library.uncg.edu/news/
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Dear Mothers, a hundred years from now it will not matter what your bank account was,
the sort of house you lived in, or the kind of car you drove,
but the world may be different because you were important in the life of a CHILD !
TO MY MOTHER
and I knew it would come true;
I’d ask the Lord for a little time,
to speak alone with you.
To hear your voice like it used to be,
so soft, so quiet, so clear;
That voice which has been silenced,
during these last few years.
To hear you sing those old-time hymns,
that speak of Jesus’ love;
And have you read the Bible,
with a message from above.
I know my wish will not come true,
and that is all right, too;
For I treasure all my memories,
of the mother I once knew.
So I thank God that when I visit,
and hold your hand in mine;
I see a peace upon your face –
I see my Lord divine!
-John Gilson
*
“I remember my mother’s prayers and they have always followed me. They have clung to me all my life.”
-President, Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865)
WONDERFUL MOTHER
A mother who never grows old;
He made her smile of the sunshine,
And He moulded her heart of pure gold;
In her eyes He placed bright shining stars,
In her cheeks fair roses you see;
God made a wonderful mother,
And He gave that dear mother to me.
*
To All Mothers With Love
Only a mother
is never too busy
Only a mother
can make everything right
when things
are going wrong….
Only a mother
can know you
as well as you know
yourself….
Only a mother
could care and share
and love so very much.
*
A Tribute To All Mothers
God made mothers in his image,
He molded every part,
He gave a little extra
When he made a mother’s heart.
He knew when he made mothers
to give an extra share
of love and understanding,
and a heart that really cares
He gave them a special smile
as if kissed by the golden sun,
He put a twinkle in their eye,
and then He said well done.
But when He made you, Mother
You were the greatest one by far
and I wouldn’t change a single thing
for you’re perfect the way you are.
-Carolyn “Banker” Harris
Tecumseh, Oklahoma
*
“There never was a woman like her. She was gentle as a dove and brave as a lioness…
The memory of my mother and her teachings were, after all, the only capital I had to start life with,
and on that capital I have made my way.”
-President, Andrew Jackson (1829-1837)
What Is a Mother?
Mom fills many roles,
but her most important one is the spiritual imprint that she will leave on her children.Do you know that Webster defines a mother as “a female parent” ? This is
the understatement of all time, and I’d like to tell Mr. Webster why this description should be revised.
A mother is a walking encyclopedia. Her children expect her to know where the sun goes at night, how jet propulsion works, what the principal exports
of Thailand are, and where kittens come from.
A mother is a master mechanic who can get a trouser leg out of a bicycle chain and fix anything with cellophane tape and a hairpin. She is a
practical nurse who can remove splinters and loose teeth painlessly, stop an earache in the middle of the night, and cure a case of measles before the
fourth grade picnic.
She is a sage who is wise enough to know when her son has reached the stage at which he would rather die than be kissed in public. Yet she is an
innocent who never ceases to wonder at the miracle of life.
A mother is all of this and more. Motherhood may not seem like “big business” when you are trying to stretch the family budget to include braces
on teeth or a new pair of shoes, but you have what money cannot buy. Your children are your investment for the future.
Mother, you are important. God has placed the lives of your children in your hands. They will bear the imprint of your love and concern throughout
their lives. Will they grow to be responsible adults, knowing the value of right from wrong? Will they be happy and secure in their relationship with
God and others?
God has not left you to raise your children alone. He has provided a guide. The Bible is His revelation to you; it is God’s divine love letter. In it
you will find His guidelines for living.
God wants to give you and your family life at its absolute best. That is why He sent Jesus Christ to provide a spiritual foundation that will help your
family weather the storms of life together.
Jesus Christ says, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly” (John 10:10b). You receive that life by believing
that Jesus Christ died for your sins and rose from the dead to give you a new way of living.
If you have never received Christ as your Savior and Lord, turn to Him today. Not only your eternal destiny but the future of your family will be
affected by your decision.
“As many as received Him (Christ), to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name”
(John 1:12).
-By Louise Shattuck / Good News Publishers
What Makes A Good Mother?
What makes a good mother anyway? Is it patience? Compassion? The ability to nurse a baby, cook dinner, and sew a button on a shirt, all at the same time?
Or is it heart?
Is it the ache you feel when you see your child disappear down the street, walking to school alone for the very first time?
The jolt that takes you from sleep to dread, from bed to crib at 2 a.m., to put your hand on the back of a sleeping baby?
The need to flee from wherever you are and hug your child when you hear news of a school shooting, a fire, a car accident, a baby dying?
So this is for all the mothers who sat down with their children and explained all about making babies–and for all the mothers who wanted to,
but just couldn’t.
This is for reading “Goodnight, Moon” twice a night for a year. And then reading it again, “Just one more time.”
This is for all the mothers who mess up. Who yell at their kids in the grocery store and swat them in despair and stomp their feet like a tired
two-year old who wants ice cream before dinner.
This is for all the mothers who taught their daughters to tie their shoelaces before they started school. And for all the mothers who opted for
Velcro instead.
For all the mothers who bite their lips sometimes until they bleed–when their 14-year-olds dye their hair green. Who lock themselves in the
bathroom when babies keep crying and won’t stop.
This is for all the mothers who show up at work with spit-up in their hair and milk stains on their blouses and diapers in their purse.
This is for all the mothers who teach their sons to cook and their daughters to sink a jump shot.
This is for all mothers whose heads turn automatically when a little voice calls “Mom?” in a crowd, even though they know their own offspring are at home.
This is for mothers who put pinwheels and teddy bears on their children’s graves.
This is for mothers whose children have gone astray, who can’t find the words to reach them.
This is for all the mothers who gave life to their babies, only to give up their babies in the hopes of a better life.
This is for all the mothers who couldn’t bare children of their own and who love the children given to them as if they were their own.
This is for all the mothers who sent their sons to school with stomachaches, assuring them they’d be just FINE once they got there, only to get calls
from the school nurse an hour later asking them to please pick them up–right away.
This is for young mothers stumbling through diaper changes and sleep deprivation. And mature mothers learning to let go. For working mothers
and stay-at-home mothers. Single mothers and married mothers. Birth mothers
and adoptive mothers. Mothers with money. Mothers without.
Mother
Susannah Wesley, who bore 17 children, made time each week to take each of those boys and girls aside and counsel with them, speaking to them about the
love of Jesus. Is it any wonder that one boy in that family became the greatest preacher of his generation, and another son became the greatest
hymn writer in the English-speaking world? With a mother like that, we can understand why Charles Wesley wrote these lines, ardent with devotion to Christ:
O for a thousand tongues to sing My great Redeemer’s praise,
The glories of my God and King,
The triumphs of His grace!
Jesus! the name that charms our fears,
That bids our sorrows cease;
‘Tis music in the sinner’s ears;
‘Tis life, and healthy, and peace.
Promises for Mothers
When you are concerned about your family’s future . . .
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for wholeness and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11
When you need wisdom . . .
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. James 1:5
When you are worried . . .
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And
the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7
When there are family tensions . . .
Put on . . . compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each
other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.
Colossians 3:12-14
When you can’t make ends meet . . .
And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19
When you’ve had a rough day . . .
You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Isaiah 26:3
Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right
hand. Isaiah 41:10
When you face difficult problems . . .
Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16
When you want your husband to follow the Lord . . .
Wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives—when they see your respectful and pure conduct. 1 Peter 3:1-2
When no one seems to understand you . . .
O LORD, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. Psalms 139:1-2
When God doesn’t seem real to you . . .
You will seek me and find me. When you seek me with all your heart, I will be found by you, declares the LORD. Jeremiah 29:13-14
When you feel like giving up . . .
My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. 2 Corinthians 12:9
I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13
When you wonder if God loves you . . .
But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8
When you need forgiveness . . .
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9
When you need assurance . . .
Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from
death to life. John 5:24 – Good News Publishers
A Mother’s Love
Through the illustration of a mother’s love for her child we can learn much about God’s love for His precious children.
Skateboarding down the cul-de-sac in front of our home, my 10-year-old son was enjoying a warm, sunny morning of vacation from school. Jordan had just
completed fourth grade two days earlier and was looking forward to a summer filled with golf, swimming, and friends. I was inside the house when I heard
one of those awful screams that a mother knows and dreads.
Feeling my adrenaline level at an all-time high, I bolted outside to find Jordan lying in the middle of the street, groaning in pain and shock. He had
experienced a freak fall off his skateboard, and although we didn’t know it at the time, his left femur (the largest bone in his body) had snapped in two.
Realizing that I could not get Jordan to the hospital myself, I called an ambulance and sat down next to him, trying to remain calm on the outside
until help came. I felt rather helpless–the only physical comfort I could offer him was my presence.
After X-rays in the emergency room, the orthopedic surgeon was called and plans were made for Dr. Watt to operate the next day. While my husband
stayed with Jordan, I made a short trip home that evening to pick up some things we needed at the hospital. My previous composure dissolved when I
walked into my son’s bedroom and looked at all his treasures and projects, and I had a good, long cry. It had been a serious accident, but I was
grateful that he was alive. I drove back to the hospital and spent the night with Jordan. Several times I drifted off to sleep and then woke up, hearing
his faint “M-m-o-m-m?” When I jumped up, he explained that he just wanted to know I was there. There’s nothing like a mother’s love at a time like that.
A mother’s love provides comfort, security, and encouragement to her children. The protective instinct I experience as a mom is so strong and
fierce that I cannot imagine anyone who could possibly love my children more. And yet, there is! I can stay up with a child for a night or two, but
only God never sleeps. I have bandaged many a scraped knee through the years, but only God can make those little knees heal. Over a burger and
fries, I have carefully listened to the concerns of a teenage son, but only God can see and understand everything in that teen’s mind and heart.
I have the privilege of loving my children (although imperfectly) for a limited number of years. But the God who designed them–and me–loves us
perfectly. His love knows no limits. Yes, God cares about our fears, our scrapes, and our concerns. But much more than that, only He can bring
healing to our hearts.
The curious thing about the healing of our hearts is that our healing can take place only because of the wounds of God’s Son. When Jesus hung and died
for us on the cross, His death was not for His own sins, because He was sinless. His death was for our sins.
“But he was pierced for our transgressions,he was crushed for our iniquities;the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.”
-Isaiah 53:5
There has never been a more amazing act of love. Our sins brought Him death, but His wounds bring us healing. When we come face to face with our need for
healing and God’s limitless love, we want Him the way an injured child wants his mother.
We cannot come to God on the basis of our good works, social standing, money, or education. A relationship with Him cannot be earned. Rather, we
come to God on the basis of what Christ has done and our faith in Him. When we place our faith in Him, we stand in the position of incredible
privilege–we become children of God.
Have you sensed your need for healing? Do you want to experience the presence of God? If you call out to Him, in faith, He will come into your
life with forgiveness, eternal life, and the security of His presence. If you would like to know Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and Lord we
would encourage you to turn from your sin and receive Him right now wherever you are. Simply pray:
Dear Jesus, I know that I am a sinner, and I know that You died for me to pay for my sins. Please forgive me and make me one of Your own, that I may
live in heaven with You for all eternity. – By Ellen Banks Elwell / Good News Publishers
“…A woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.
Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise….”
-Proverbs 31:30,31
So many things in life are beyond explanation. The affect of a mother’s touch is among them. I have wonderful memories of this inscrutable force
through personal experience and listening to others marvel about it. We all agree that our mother’s bed made us feel better even though our own was
equally comfortable; that hot cocoa could go from package to ‘gourmet’ when she prepared it; and that it was nothing short of amazing to have a
breakfast of ‘cereal and milk’ be transformed to ‘cereal and cream’ in her hands. There’s something special about a mother’s touch; something
exceptional God gives through her hands.
A mother’s touch…a mother’s love, is most powerful through the woman who opens her heart to God, allowing it to become a vessel of compassion and
understanding, beauty and grace. The attributes He gives a woman are unique. The radiance of who He is filters through her to form a significant
and rare light. Though hard to explain, it is and always will be one of the most brilliant ways His unconditional love shines upon this earth.
While Mother’s Day is an important day to honor every woman who has made sacrifices to shape the heart of a child, encourage their faith, and be an
example of love that flows freely and without condition-there will be hundreds of other days and reasons to praise her. Let’s begin this holiday
by thanking God for these extraordinary women, and then ask Him to show us ways to appreciate them all year long. Their hands, after all, are the
tools God uses to smooth life’s rough spots…to mold pliable hearts…to cultivate the love and understanding that make a house a home-and on
occasion, perform the miraculous feats that come only by way of a ‘mother’s touch.’ — By Bonnie Jensen Writer, DaySpring Cards
10 Disciplines of a Godly Woman
-by Barbara Hughes / GNP
The apostle Paul links the idea of discipline with spiritual life: “Train yourself for godliness”—referring to a spiritual workout—for “godliness is
of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come” (1 Timothy 4:7-8). A Christian woman’s life is about
bringing her will and every area of her life under submission to God’s will.
1. Discipline of the Gospel: The Source of Godliness
“Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3). To be a godly woman you must know what this gospel is, believe it,
and make it the center of your life. Never lose the wonder of the gospel. John 3:16 is not only a beautiful summary of what God has done, it ought to
be the true center of our living—defining, motivating, and satisfying us. The gospel is a woman’s first and most important discipline, for it is the
source of godliness.
2. Discipline of Submission: The Posture of Godliness
It saddens me that submission has been eliminated from our cultural vocabulary. Bringing our lives into submission to God’s will in everything
is the key to being a godly woman (Philippians 2:8-11). It is also the path to joy.
Submission applies to every area of our lives, and we begin by restoring the gospel to its rightful place at the center of our thoughts and deeds
everyday. It’s an ongoing, daily choosing of God’s ways over our own ways (James 4:7-10; Hebrews 12:9). Is the will of God more important than our
lives (Luke 9:24)?
3. Discipline of Prayer: Submission’s Lifeline
Pray “at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication” (Ephesians 6:18). Prayer is the source of power for growth and perseverance
in our spiritual lives. It bends our wills to God’s, which is what submitting our lives is all about.
Prayer cannot be reduced to a few simple rules, and though we sometimes talk about meditation, confession, adoration, submission, and petition, there is
no prescribed order. But continual prayer is God’s will for us… we must always be “looking up,” even when driving to work or cleaning the house.
4. Discipline of Worship: Submission’s Celebration
Worship encompasses all of life: “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship” (Romans 12:1).
Because Christ is the ultimate revelation of God (Colossians 1:15-20), he must be the central focus of our worship as understood through Scripture (1
Timothy 4:13). Worship —whether by oneself at home, in the workplace, classroom, or with the church gathered—is consecration. Every woman who
calls herself a Christian must understand that worship is the ultimate priority of her life… every day.
5. Discipline of Mind: Submission’s Education
No computer will ever be able to think God’s thoughts or know the heart of God or do his works. But it’s what the brain was created for—to have the
mind of Christ. What a scandal that so many Christians don’t think Christianly!
In one comprehensive sentence, Paul prescribes his personal mental program: “Whatever is true… honorable… just… pure… lovely… commendable, if there is
any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things” (Philippians 4:8). If you are filled with God’s Word, your life can
then be informed and directed by God—your relationships at home, parenting, career, ethical decisions, and internal moral life.
6. Discipline of Contentment: Submission’s Rest
Paul wrote from prison that he had “learned in whatever situation I am to be content” (Philippians 4:11). Fortunately for us, he said that he had
“learned”… there is hope for all of us who face the monster of discontent!
Applying our knowledge of God to our circumstances is the key to contentment. It will be ours when all that God is and all that he has done
in Christ fills our heart. We may lack many things in this world, but as godly women we must work to develop the discipline of contentment.
7. Discipline of Propriety: Submission’s Behavior
Propriety means behaving in ways appropriate for Christians—actions that don’t bring shame to the Gospel and to Christ. Propriety elevates our words, our
appearance, and our attitudes. It’s a perfect word for describing what Paul means when he tells believers to act “in a manner of life…worthy of the
gospel” (Philippians 1:27).
Propriety means acting in a way worthy of the Gospel in dress (1 Peter 3:3-4), speech, and attitude (Colossians 3:12-14). If your behavior is
worthy of the Gospel, the source of that behavior will be a heart authentically bowed in humble submission to Jesus as Lord.
8. Discipline of Perseverance: Submission’s Challenge
Faith in the goodness of God in the face of extreme adversity grows out of a discipline of perseverance in the day-in, day-out grind of everyday life.
“Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us” (Hebrews 12:1).
We all can develop perseverance by daily submitting to God’s will and looking to Jesus in whatever irritating, insignificant duties or grand-scale
tragedies we may suffer (Romans 8:18; Hebrews 12:3). It involves submitting to God in our trials while trusting him to be good, wise, merciful, just,
kind, lovingly all-knowing, and all-powerful.
9. Discipline of Singleness or Marriage: Submission’s Framework
Singleness is a positive assignment (1 Corinthians 7:7) to be joyously received knowing that God doesn’t plan to give anyone less than the best. If
marriage is our “assignment,” then we must discipline ourselves to submit to God’s will—to live as our husbands’ helpers (Genesis 2:18), submitting to
and respecting their position (Ephesians 5:22-24), and developing a gentle and quiet spirit (1 Peter 3:1).
As single or married daughters of Eve—the “mother of all living” (Genesis 3:20)—we must cultivate nurturing spirits. How we care for others will be
dictated by where God places us—in a home, in a hospital, in the inner city, wherever.
10. Discipline of Good Deeds: Submission’s Industry
As believers we are “created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10). Good
deeds are the redeemed heart’s response of gratitude for the gift of God’s grace (1 Peter 2:12).
We gospel women must determine to develop the discipline of good deeds: “as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who
are of the household of faith” (Galatians 6:10). Let us fill our days with good deeds.
As you cultivate the disciplines of godly womanhood, consider Paul’s words: “I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God
that is with me” (1 Corinthians 15:10). There is no contradiction between grace and hard work. As we attempt to do God’s will, he always gives more grace!
Portrait of a Mother
The final chapter in the book of Proverbs paints a portrait of an extraordinary mother . . .but who can live up to the standards set by this Supermom?
By trusting Christ as her Savior, any mother can have the daily strength and guidance
to work toward the time when her children will “rise up and call her blessed”
-Proverbs 31:28
bumped heads, skinned knees. Tickles, hugs, kisses. These are a mother’s world.
And so is round-the-clock training–twenty-four hours of teachable moments. How to tie shoes and how to share. How to give and take with peers and how
to respect authority. How to handle disappointment and how to reach for the best. How to love well and live morally. The old Marine motto applies to
motherhood: It’s the toughest job you’ll ever love.
Fortunately, there are resources available for moms in search of parenting direction, the most treasured being God’s wisdom found in His Word, the
Bible. The book of Proverbs is a practical and philosophical manual of advice from a parent to a son, and it sets a high standard for both parents
and children.
“The wise woman builds her house,” teaches the book of Proverbs, with tools of understanding and wisdom instead of boards and bricks (14:1; 24:3-4).
“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it” (22:6) is another promise of Proverbs. Then the book points
to discipline as a parent’s tool for bringing “delight” into the parent-child relationship ( 22:15; 29:17).
The last chapter of Proverbs includes a description of God’s ideal woman. She’s a woman who works hard all day long for the good of her family
(31:13-19). She provides food, clothing, and warm coverings for her children (31:15, 21-22). She herself is clothed with “strength and dignity” (31:25).
And when she speaks, “she opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue” (31:26)
And the end result for this Supermom? “Her children rise up and call her blessed” (31:28). Wow! What mother doesn’t hope for some distant day when
her children shower her with love and grateful acknowledgment of all she’s done for them? That fantasy becomes reality for this woman.
But what about you? Does this seem like an impossible standard? Does it make you want to stay in bed with the covers pulled over your head? You’re not
alone. NO mother is perfect. And EVERY mother feels overwhelmed at times with the challenge of bringing up her children.
The good news is that God doesn’t hold up a perfect model of Christian motherhood and then abandon moms to fail to live up to it. God is not only
the “founder” but also the “perfecter” of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). In fact, He’s ready to give mothers the ultimate secret weapon for childrearing:
Himself! He Himself promises to stay with you every step of the way, to give you wisdom and strength and direction at each stage of the parenting process.
So how can you plug into God’s parenting support group? If you don’t already have a personal relationship with God, that’s the place to begin! The Bible
teaches that friendship with God is available to everyone who acknowledges Jesus Christ as Savior and is willing to make Him Lord of her life. You
might pray something like this: “God, I know that I am a sinner and can never live up to Your perfect standards of holiness. I am sorry for my sins,
and I believe that Jesus Christ died on the cross so that I could have forgiveness and be born again into God’s family. Come into my life, and help
me to live for You. Amen.”
As you get to know your heavenly Father, you’ll find yourself growing in wisdom gleaned from His message (the Bible), from the influence of the Holy
Spirit (God living within you), and from your friendships with other Christians (fellowship). That godly wisdom will greatly influence your
parenting skills and decisions–in other words, it will help you “build” your house.
The end of the book of Proverbs says “a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised” (31:30).
When you belong to God, you have everything you need to be the kind of mother whose children
“rise up and call her blessed” (31:28).
– By Annette LaPlaca / Good News Publishers
Mom: There’s No Substitute for You
-By Good News Publishers
I love my home!” said a little girl bounding into the living room. A visitor asked why her home was so special. For the moment the girl paused. Then she
ran over to her mother, threw her arms around her and said, “I guess it’s just you, Mom.”
Mothers, ask God to make you worthy of your children’s affection and confidence. He had a purpose in entrusting their early years into your
hands. Your love and example is the soil in which their young lives will take root.
Studies show that the years of one through six are the most formative years in developing a child’s personality. And by the age of sixteen, most young
people have made the spiritual decisions that will shape the rest of their lives.
Thank God that He has not left you to figure out for yourself what must be done to build your child’s immortal soul and fit it for eternity. He has
given you His textbook, the Bible. Reading it, plus much prayer, is the secret to wise parenting.
How does the Bible describe the mother that pleases God? She possesses a sense of spiritual values: faith, courage, prayer, wisdom, joy,
trust-worthiness, dedication, kindness, reverence. (Read Exodus 2:2, 1 Samuel 1:12, Proverbs 31:26, Psalm 113:9, Proverbs 31:11).
She is productive: she keeps her house in good order, passes on God’s Word, plans ahead, does good, comforts, disciplines (puts up the STOP SIGN when
needed), reflects on God’s Word. (Read Proverbs 31:27, Psalm 78:4-5, Proverbs 31:12, Isaiah 66:13, Luke 2:19.)
If this sounds like a big order for you, it is. But you don’t have to do it on your own. Jesus Christ wants to give you the inner vitality that you
daily need. If you will trust Him as Lord of your life, He will walk with you every step of the way.
He promises, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek
and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30).
With Christ’s help, make the brief years that you have with your children count for eternity. Daily hold your life before the white light of God’s
Word. Clean out your spiritual wardrobe. Place people before things. Be an example. If you do this, Mom, what a tremendous inner joy and reward will be
yours.
There were four preachers in the family of Dr. G. Campbell Morgan. At a family reunion a friend asked, “Which Morgan is the greatest preacher?” One
son looked at his father, then replied, “Mother.”
Let your life be a message that your children will never forget.
Mom, there’s no substitute for you!
The Young Child and His Mother
mother and her child,” as the mother is usually more important in our minds and takes prec-edence over her young child. But notice how carefully
Scripture puts it the other way in regards to Jesus.
The wise men who came from the East to Jerusalem were guided by a star in their search for Jesus. They did not ask for His mother Mary, but enquired,
“Where is He that is born king of the Jews? for we have seen His star in the east, and are come to worship Him” (Matthew 2:2). When they came into the
house where He was, “they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down, and worshipped Him” (Matthew 2:11).
The mother was highly honored indeed (Luke 1:28) to be overshadowed by the Holy Spirit of God so as to be the mother of our Saviour according to the
flesh, but she was not the object of their search. Why did these wise men worship the young Child? They recognized Him as being born King of the Jews.
Was He not the One foretold before by the prophet Isaiah as being the Child born, the Son given, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of
Peace (Isaiah 9:6)? Would ever a Child be given such names by heaven were He not “God manifest in the flesh” (1 Timothy 3:16)?
How beautiful it is to note in the sacred narrative that the Child is not only mentioned before the mother, but is also the object of worship as being
infinitely above her, as God is above all. Thus these wise men, who worshipped Jesus and offered Him gifts when He was a babe in His mother’s
arms in His perfect manhood dependent on her for every need, show us the blessed truths that the eternal “Word was made flesh and dwelt among us”
(John 1:14) and “that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow” (Philippians 2:10).
Does the reader know this One as God incarnate, who was bruised for your iniquities (Isaiah 53:5,6), who died for your sins (1 Corinthians 15:3,4)
and was raised for your justification (Romans 4:25)? Have you trusted this Jesus as personal Lord and Saviour? Is He the object of your worship as He
was with the wise men? All who are truly “wise” will bow before Him now confessing Him as the One who alone is able to deliver from sin and death.
He came for this very purpose. However, any who do not believe on Him in this fleeting day of grace will be made to bow before Him as Judge and be
forever banished from His glorious presence to bear the punishment for their sins (Romans 14:11,12; Revelation 20:11-15).
When Herod sought the death of the child Jesus by destroying all that were two years old and under, the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph, and bade
him “Arise, and take the young Child and his mother, and flee into Egypt” (Matthew 2:13). Here the angel is careful to put words in that special
order, emphasizing the wonder of our Lord’s incarnation.
In process of time Herod died and Archelaus his son reigned in his stead. Again the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph saying, “Arise, and take the
young Child and His mother, and go into the land of Israel; for they are dead which sought the young Child’s life” (Matthew 2:20). Again the words
are carefully put in this order.
Does not inspiration shine brightly on the sacred page? Is it not beautiful to see the careful way in which Scripture guards the truth as to the Person
of Christ? He is worthy of our trust and our worship. –A.J.P.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Example for Mothers
It was in 1914 that President Wilson signed the first Mothers’ Day Proclamation, setting aside the second Sunday of every May to be observed
“as a public expression of our love and reverence for the mothers of our country.” Of course, love and reverence should be shown daily, and in the
Bible we have many mothers mentioned whose faithful devotion to the Lord and to their children gave reason for high honor by God who has set them forth
in His Word as examples for mothers today. One such example is Jochebed, the mother of Moses.
Jochebed means, “The Lord is glorious.” This would suggest that she highly esteemed Jehovah and gave Him first place in her heart. This was the
motivation for her successful motherhood.
Also, we notice that she was in accord with her husband, Amram. They were both of the tribe of Levi, which means “joined.” How essential it is that
mother and father be one in setting the direction for the course of their children.
From Exodus 2, however, we have indication that the responsibility to “train up a child in the way he should go” (Prov. 22:6) largely falls upon the
mother. “When she saw him that he was a goodly child, she hid him three months.” Acts 7:20 says he was a child “exceeding fair to God.” Without a
doubt, she recognized by faith the value of her son as a gift from God to be brought up for Him.
In hiding him three months there is indication that she was fully aware of the dangers surrounding them in Egypt. The king had decreed that all male
babies were to be killed at birth–thrown into the river. She was going to protect him at all cost, fully aware, too, that the earliest impressions
upon a child form his character and determine his course in life. Would that mothers realized this today. Egypt, a type of the world, has not changed its
character: its god and prince is Satan himself who makes a bid for all children, not only in violent assaults but by subtle seemingly harmless ways
of putting the world before them to influence their impressionable minds and hearts. Mothers need God’s wisdom for ways to hide these precious souls.
She does something further. When he could no longer be hidden she “took for him an ark of bulrushes, and daubed it with slime and with pitch, and put
the child therein; and she laid it in the flags by the river’s brink” (Exodus 2:2). She believed, as every parent who holds Christ to be precious,
that children are “holy” (separated, 1 Cor. 7:14). They are to be regarded as purchased by Christ who has rights over them and are to be preserved for
God in view of Christ coming into their hearts and lives by true faith and affection for Him. In putting him in the river, she actually committed him
to God, recognizing he was under the sentence of death. However, in putting him in the ark, in figure, she was putting him in touch with Christ in faith
that God would preserve her son and use him for His glory.
She retired from the scene, apparently in perfect peace, waiting for the outcome of her trust in God. It wasn’t long before she realized the working
of God in answer to her faith. Who but God could cause the daughter of Pharaoh to go to wash in the river at that particular time? Who but God
could have her see the ark and have the baby weep as she opened it? Who but God could put it in the heart of Miriam to be there with a suggestion that
would be favorable to the princess who was actually defying her father’s decree?
Imagine the joy in Jochebed’s heart when Pharaoh’s daughter said to her, “Take this child away, and nurse it for me, and I will give thee thy wages”
! When faith and works are united in action, “God works in mysterious ways, His wonders to perform.”
We are not told how long Jochebed had Moses, but she didn’t waste one moment to prayerfully care for him, lovingly nourish him and carefully instruct him
in the way he should go. She put Jehovah and His people before him with divine emphasis to such a degree that he never forgot what his mother taught
him even at the age of 40 years. Though “learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and mighty in words and deeds” (Acts 2:22), his heart was for
Jehovah, and with his brethren, the children of Israel. Hebrews 11:24-28 reveals his faith in forsaking Egypt to identify himself with the people of
God in their affliction, “Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt.” What a power his mother was in his illustrious
life as a servant of God!
Jochebed surely got her wages, not only from Pharaoh’s daughter, but from Jehovah, which will be eternal in reward, and cause her to sing: “The Lord
is glorious.”- MWTB
How to Love your Mother
Mary, the mother of Jesus, stood by the cross at Calvary and witnessed as history’s greatest tragedy was inflicted upon her son. “When Jesus then saw
His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing nearby, He said to His mother, ‘Woman, behold, your son!’ Then He said to the disciple, ‘Behold,
your mother!’ From that hour the disciple took her into his own household” (John 19:26-27)
John the Beloved lived to be an old man–long enough to take good care of Mary all the days of her life. Even as he hung dying on the cross, Jesus
demonstrated His love toward His mother, making provisions for her care in His absence. The older a mother gets, the more she needs to know that her
children still love her.
How can you can show love to your mother?
1) Love her verbally.
When you tell your mother that you love her, it is important to be specific. Tell her why and how you love her. Express some of the qualities for which
you love her, like the fact that you enjoy the meals she prepares or you appreciate how dependable she is. When you stop and think about all the
things your mother does to serve her household, you will find plenty of examples.
2) Love her physically.
Your mother was the first person to touch you. Before you were born, she wrapped you in her womb. After you came into the world, she tickled the
bottoms of your feet and made you laugh. She kissed your cheeks in the middle of the night and held your little hands when they were soft and tender.
She also changed your diapers, tied your shoelaces, combed your hair, and buttoned your shirts. She touched you constantly during all those years when
you needed the security of her touch. When her primary duties as a mother have expired, she will need to know that she is still needed. She will need
your touch.
3) Love her patiently.
Moms have big jobs. There likely is no corporate responsibility that rivals motherhood when it comes to physical, emotional, and spiritual commitment.
It is easy to become impatient with our mothers when they don’t do things the way we want them to. Sometimes they are late to appointments, prepare
meals we don’t like, or don’t follow through in the way we expect them to. In these times we must exercise patience.
It is important to remember that our mothers aren’t bottomless wells from which we draw each time we have a need. Our mothers have their own schedules
and needs. It is unfair to expect them to align their lives to accommodate ours.
4) Listen to her.
Can you remember a time when your mother stopped what she was doing to listen to you pour out your burdens? Maybe somebody you were dating stood
you up, a friend didn’t invite you to a party, or you didn’t make the basketball team. What did your mother do? She put her arm around you and
encouraged you. She listened.
Sometimes our mothers long for someone to talk to. One of the sweetest ways you can express love toward your mother is to listen to her. A lot of
mothers suppress fears, anxieties, frustrations, and inner torments because they don’t want to worry their children. In fact, there are no parents who
never have fears, heartaches, or burdens. In her latter years, she may face troubles more intense then anything she has helped you overcome in your own
life. It is important to keep the door of communication open so that our mothers can express their fears when necessary.
5) Love her gratefully.
Think for a moment about all the things that your mother has done for you over the years. How many meals did she prepare for you while you lived at
home? How many boxes of cereal did she buy? You wanted Corn Flakes, so she bought that. You switched to Lucky Charms, so she bought that. She asked you
how you liked your eggs–fried, scrambled, or poached.
Mothers never bring these things to our attention. They just make their trips to the grocery store and stand in line with their buggies full of food
because they love us.
If we begin to enumerate all the little things that our mothers have done throughout the years, we will realize that we owe them an enormous debt of
gratitude.
6) Love her tenderly.
A mother sometimes needs acceptance and understanding rather than a lot of advice. Her actions may seem strange, but when you love somebody,
and accept that she’s going through a difficult time. The best mark of what kind of kids we are is how we respond to our moms when they are going
through hardship.
7) Love her generously.
Is anything too good for your mom? When you think about all the things she has done for you, could you ever do enough to repay her? More than likely
your mother sacrificed so that you could wear the clothes you wore. When she went to the store to buy herself a dress, she made sure that you had the
best she could afford first. What was left over, she spent on herself. Mothers do this everyday with their time and energy, canceling appointments
or forfeiting opportunities to take their children to sports practice or friends’ houses. How can we be stingy toward our mothers when they have been
so unselfish, loving, and generous toward us?
8) Love her forgivingly.
Perhaps you do not have a harmonious relationship with your mother. You may be resentful and bitter toward her. Whatever has happened between you, you
have a responsibility before God to forgive her. Maybe there is no excuse for her sins, however, when we do not forgive we can not love. And God tells
us to love. If He can forgive us despite our failures, surely we can do the same for our mothers.
9) Love her cheerfully.
What comes to your mother’s mind when she thinks about you? Does she smile or frown? Is she encouraged or burdened? The next time you visit your
mother, encourage her, laugh with her, and do your best to make her happy. In doing so, you will show her how you genuinely feel toward her.
10) Love her honorably.
“Honor your father and your mother that your days may be long upon the earth” (Exodus 20:12). It is the only one of the 10 Commandments with a
built-in promise for blessing. It doesn’t matter what your vocation is in life, how many people know you, or the amount of money you earn. When you
live the kind of life that honors your mother, she will be proud of you.
How do you love your mother?
You love her with all of your heart. You demonstrate your love to her in a way that make her grateful for every moment of time she invested in you,
every penny she sacrificed for you, and every experience she provided that helped you become the person you are. Whoever you are, you owe a great deal
to your mom. — In Touch Ministries
MAKE SURE TO EXPRESS YOUR APPRECIATION TO YOUR MOTHER
IN THOUGHT AND DEED, NOT ONLY ON MOTHER’S DAY, BUT EVERY DAY AS LONG SHE LIVES!
Live, Love, Laugh!
“A merry heart doeth good like a medicine”
-Proverbs 17:22
Giggles- Flash
http://www.spiritisup.com/
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M – marry right man
O- obey Great Commission
T- train your children
H- honor your parents
E- enjoy the Christian walk
R- request wisdom from God continuously
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Mother
Quarreling between her two sons prompted the mother to rush to the kitchen. Eight year old Bobby and four year old Jackie were having a tug of war with
the cookie jar. Only one cookie remained in the jar, and each boy thought it was his. Taking the cookie jar from the two youngsters, their mother
calmly announced. “I’ll solve the problem for you. I’ll eat the last cookie myself.” The boys looked up at their mother in unbelief. Then the four
year old, with a mischievous grin on his face said, “Oh, no you won’t, Mom. Whoever heard of a selfish mother?”
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M + O + M = LOVE
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Mother
A teacher put this question to little John in the arithmetic class. “John, suppose your mother made a peach pie and there were 10 of you at the table… your mother and father and eight children… how much of the pie would you get?” “A ninth, Ma’am,” was the prompt answer. “No John. Now pay attention,” said the teacher. “There are 10 of you. Ten, remember. Don’t you
know your fractions?” “Yes Ma’am,” was the swift replay of little John, “I know my fractions, but I know my mother, too. She’d say that she didn’t want any pie.”
Mothers, your unselfishness makes an impression on the little ones.
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Little Johnny And His Mother
Little Johnny watched, fascinated, as his mother gently rubbed cold cream on her face.
“Why are you rubbing cold cream on your face, Mommy?” he asked.
“To make myself beautiful,” said his mother.
A few minutes later, she began removing the cream with a tissue.
“What’s the matter?” asked Little Johnny. “Giving up?”
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Things My Mother Taught Me
http://www.robinsweb.com/
Healing Touch http://www.spiritisup.com/
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“By and large, mothers and housewives
are the only workers who do not have regular time off.
They are the great vacationless class.”
-Anne Morrow Lindbergh
Jesus Saves All Over The World
We have heard the joyful sound:
J