Even though Mother’s Day 2009 will have already come and gone by the time these words are read, it is still fitting for us to ask God to help us see more clearly the immense worth of Godly mothers whose value is far too often overlooked.

Some things in life come and go, but the role of motherhood is for life. Our children are grown and out of our home now, yet I still see the beauty of my wife’s mothering abilities being called upon by them and patiently given by her.

The many things that our mothers have given us are far more than time or space will allow me to mention, but of all the things mothers do, the greatest is when they give the time and effort to guide us toward God. While each person has to make a personal choice to accept or reject Jesus Christ, the influence of a Godly mother can go a long way toward encouraging the child to choose to follow Christ. In too many homes, fathers are failing to be the spiritual leaders that they should be, leaving it up to the mother to take the responsibility to teach the children Godly values. Thank God for mothers who are willing to fulfill this role.

The Bible records that the faith of the mother and grandmother of Timothy encouraged him to become a man of faith.

Paul wrote to Timothy: “I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother, Lois, and in your mother, Eunice, and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also” (II Timothy 1:5, NIV).

That faith did not come to Timothy through physical inheritance, but through consistent Christian living and teaching on the part of his mother and grandmother.

As a result of what those two Godly women instilled into young Timothy, he was encouraged to continue to boldly remain true to Christ. Paul instructed him to “not be ashamed to testify about our Lord” (II Timothy 1:8). What a reward for a mother when she sees her children taking a bold stand for Christ!

It is tragic that the importance of motherhood is not always recognized in our day. Instead, success is often measured in dollars and cents. Thankfully God has a higher standard of acknowledging value. Since He places great importance on motherhood, we should too.

If you are the mother of young children there might be times when you question the value of the investment you are making in your children. Be of good courage! God has called you to be an instrument to help shape young lives and teach them eternal truths. Just as Timothy’s mother and grandmother played a vital role in his decision to follow Christ, you have the same opportunity to help shape a life who could someday impact the world for Christ.

Proverbs 31:30 puts it well: “Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”

Thank God for mothers of sincere faith! May He bless each of you mothers richly as you fulfill your Godly role of motherhood.