5/11/13 Encouraging Mom

She watches over the affairs of her household
    and does not eat the bread of idleness.
²⁸ Her children arise and call her blessed;
    her husband also, and he praises her (Proverbs 31:27,28) 

Thoughts: How many times did the mother stay up late with a sick child, or a crying infant, or helping put together late homework?  How many times has a mother tossed and turned and finally sit up waiting for the teen or young adult who was out late to come home?
    The KJV says "she looks well to the ways of her house."  The way of the house for the godly woman is the way of the Lord.  It is the way toward heaven.  It  is the pilgrim's journey.  She does not stop on her journey as if her life did not matter.  But every moment is a gift.
   So she is praised by children and spouse.  They would be worse if it were not for her.  Too many criticize mom.  She is an easy target for she will not fight back.  The tearing down of our mothers is not the way of the Lord.  It may be the way of Freud who would have us blame all of our faults on our parents and upbringing (who has a perfect upbringing after all?).  Today mothers need encouragement to care and to love their children. 
    So make an extra effort to bit your tongue of criticism and encourage the women in your life who have helped ou on your wa. 

Prayer: So, Lord, help me to praise the women in my life.  Thank you for those who have pointed along the way to you.