Priceless

Many daughters have done virtuously, But thou excellest them all.
  Proverbs 31:29

  What makes the woman and mother of Proverbs 31 so uniquely worthy of emulation? How does she stand out among the crowd of the ladies that surround her? Is it possible for a woman of today to rise to the top and equal this high and lofty ideal of a mother? I believe each woman carries a capacity by God’s Spirit and grace to rival the Proverbs 31 woman. Possibly, these attributes will be expressed to a greater or lesser degree in the lives of each mother, but this should not restrict one from continually striving to exhibit the utmost love and care in the home. Mothers have great sway in the hearts and lives of their children. Mothers, you are needed, and even, desired by your children. Don’t abdicate your role or despise it as insignificant.

  Let us consider this priceless gift of a mother as depicted in Proverbs 31. Her industriousness is evident as “She seeketh wool, and flax, And worketh willingly with her hands. She is like the merchants’ ships; She bringeth her food from afar” (vv. 13-14). A mother’s tirelessness in serving others is represented in that “She riseth also while it is yet night, And giveth meat to her household, And a portion to her maidens” (v.15). There is an entrepreneurial bent when “She considereth a field, and buyeth it: With the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard. She girdeth her loins with strength, And strengtheneth her arms” (vv.16-17). Her example of generousness defines her as “She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: Her candle goeth not out by night. She layeth her hands to the spindle, And her hands hold the distaff. She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; Yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy” (vv. 18-20). Finally,
“Strength and honour are her clothing; And she shall rejoice in time to come. She openeth her mouth with wisdom; And in her tongue is the law of kindness,” leaving an impression of immense approachableness (vv.25-26). The end result is that “Her children arise up, and call her blessed . . .  because “a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised” (vv. 28a, 30b).

A Mother’s loving and caring example is immeasurable!