Celebrating Mother's Love: A Reflection of God's Sacrifice
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone. It's wonderful to see all of you here today, especially as we gather to celebrate Jesus and honor our moms. As we begin our service, let's take a moment to reflect on God's incredible creation, like the Northern Lights, and how such wonders pale in comparison to His love for us. God, who created such beauty, cares deeply for each one of us, so much so that He sent His only Son to lay down His life for our sins. Today, as we celebrate Mother's Day, we are reminded of the sacrificial love that mothers embody, a reflection of God's love for us.
As we continue, I want to recognize all the mothers present. If you're a mom, please stand so we can honor you. Your influence is unparalleled, and many of us are here today because of the faith and guidance of our mothers. We have a special gift for each mom as you leave today, so please don't forget to pick it up. Let's pray for our mothers, thanking God for their love, perseverance, and the sacrifices they make daily.
Motherhood is a powerful role, one that shapes not just individual lives but entire generations. Think about it: every child has a mother, and often, the mother is the most significant influence in their life. Even if a child were to meet someone as influential as the President, their mother would still hold the most sway over their life. This generational influence is profound, and it's why I believe that if we want to change our culture, we must start by honoring and supporting our mothers.
Today, I want to share a story from 1 Kings 3:16-28, where King Solomon had to determine the true mother of a living child. Two women came to him, each claiming to be the mother of the child. Solomon, in his wisdom, suggested dividing the child in two, knowing that the true mother would rather give up her child than see him harmed. This story highlights two key attributes of a godly mother: perseverance and sacrifice.
The first attribute is perseverance. The true mother in the story had likely exhausted all other avenues before coming to the king. She was determined to fight for her child, no matter the cost. This kind of perseverance is something we see in mothers every day. They juggle countless responsibilities, from music lessons to sports practices, all while ensuring their children are raised in the faith. Mothers, your perseverance is a testament to your love and dedication.
The second attribute is sacrifice. The true mother was willing to give up her child to save his life. This selflessness is mirrored in the lives of mothers today, who often put their children's needs above their own. Whether it's the financial cost of raising a child or the emotional toll of worrying about their future, mothers continually sacrifice for the well-being of their children. Jesus said, "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends." Mothers live this out daily, laying down their lives for their children.
As we close, I want to address those who may not yet know Jesus. The greatest gift you can give your mother is the assurance of your salvation. If you haven't yet given your life to Christ, I invite you to do so today. There's nothing more comforting to a mother than knowing her child has eternal hope in Jesus. Let's pray together, asking God to bless our mothers and guide us in following His will.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Unmatched Influence of Mothers: Mothers hold an unparalleled influence over their children, shaping not just individual lives but entire generations. This influence is a powerful tool for cultural change, as the values and faith instilled by mothers can ripple through society. Recognizing and supporting the role of mothers is crucial for fostering a godly and moral culture. [29:07]
2. Perseverance in Motherhood: The story of King Solomon and the two women highlights the perseverance of a true mother. Despite numerous challenges, a godly mother remains steadfast in her love and commitment to her child. This perseverance is a reflection of God's unwavering love for us and serves as a powerful example of faith in action. [36:12]
3. The Sacrificial Love of Mothers: True motherhood is marked by sacrifice. Just as the mother in Solomon's story was willing to give up her child to save his life, mothers today continually sacrifice their own needs and desires for the well-being of their children. This selfless love mirrors the sacrificial love of Jesus, who laid down His life for us. [42:03]
4. The Eternal Impact of a Mother's Faith: A mother's faith can have a lasting impact on her children's spiritual lives. Many of us owe our salvation to the persistent prayers and guidance of our mothers. This eternal perspective underscores the importance of raising children in the faith and continually praying for their salvation. [41:31]
5. The Greatest Gift for Mothers: The greatest gift a child can give their mother is the assurance of their salvation. Knowing that their child has eternal hope in Jesus brings immense comfort and joy to a mother's heart. If you haven't yet given your life to Christ, consider doing so today as a way to honor your mother and secure your eternal future. [47:54]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[02:24] - Opening Prayer
[13:25] - Recognizing Mothers
[15:12] - Special Presentation
[29:07] - The Influence of Mothers
[30:06] - Importance of Mother's Day
[33:26] - Solomon's Wisdom
[36:12] - Perseverance of a Mother
[41:31] - Wrestling in Prayer
[42:03] - Sacrificial Love
[47:54] - Invitation to Salvation
[48:23] - Honoring Your Mother
[49:21] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1 Kings 3:16-28 (NIV)
> "Now two prostitutes came to the king and stood before him. One of them said, 'Pardon me, my lord. This woman and I live in the same house, and I had a baby while she was there with me. The third day after my child was born, this woman also had a baby. We were alone; there was no one in the house but the two of us. During the night this woman’s son died because she lay on him. So she got up in the middle of the night and took my son from my side while I your servant was asleep. She put him by her breast and put her dead son by my breast. The next morning, I got up to nurse my son—and he was dead! But when I looked at him closely in the morning light, I saw that it wasn’t the son I had borne.' The other woman said, 'No! The living one is my son; the dead one is yours.' But the first one insisted, 'No! The dead one is yours; the living one is mine.' And so they argued before the king. The king said, 'This one says, "My son is alive and your son is dead," while that one says, "No! Your son is dead and mine is alive."' Then the king said, 'Bring me a sword.' So they brought a sword for the king. He then gave an order: 'Cut the living child in two and give half to one and half to the other.' The woman whose son was alive was deeply moved out of love for her son and said to the king, 'Please, my lord, give her the living baby! Don’t kill him!' But the other said, 'Neither I nor you shall have him. Cut him in two!' Then the king gave his ruling: 'Give the living baby to the first woman. Do not kill him; she is his mother.' When all Israel heard the verdict the king had given, they held the king in awe, because they saw that he had wisdom from God to administer justice."
#### Observation Questions
1. What was King Solomon's initial suggestion to resolve the dispute between the two women? ([34:25])
2. How did the true mother react to Solomon's suggestion to divide the child? ([34:25])
3. What attributes of a godly mother are highlighted in the story of King Solomon and the two women? ([36:12])
4. How does the sermon describe the influence of mothers on their children and society? ([29:07])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think King Solomon suggested such a drastic measure to determine the true mother of the child? ([34:25])
2. How does the perseverance of the true mother in the story reflect the daily perseverance of mothers today? ([36:12])
3. In what ways does the sacrificial love of the true mother in the story mirror the sacrificial love of Jesus? ([42:03])
4. How can the faith and prayers of a mother impact the spiritual lives of her children, according to the sermon? ([41:31])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when your mother or a mother figure in your life showed perseverance. How did that impact you, and how can you show similar perseverance in your own life? ([36:12])
2. Think about the sacrifices your mother has made for you. How can you express your gratitude to her in a meaningful way this week? ([42:03])
3. The sermon mentions the eternal impact of a mother's faith. How can you actively support and encourage the spiritual growth of your children or younger family members? ([41:31])
4. If you are a mother, what are some specific ways you can demonstrate sacrificial love to your children this week? ([42:03])
5. The sermon suggests that the greatest gift you can give your mother is the assurance of your salvation. If you haven't yet given your life to Christ, what steps can you take to explore this decision further? ([47:54])
6. How can you honor and support the mothers in your community, especially those who may be single or facing difficult circumstances? ([44:59])
7. Reflect on the influence your mother has had on your faith journey. How can you pass on this legacy of faith to the next generation? ([29:07])
Devotional
Day 1: The Unmatched Influence of Mothers
Mothers hold an unparalleled influence over their children, shaping not just individual lives but entire generations. This influence is a powerful tool for cultural change, as the values and faith instilled by mothers can ripple through society. Recognizing and supporting the role of mothers is crucial for fostering a godly and moral culture. Mothers often serve as the primary spiritual guides in their children's lives, teaching them about faith, love, and morality. Their influence extends beyond the home, impacting communities and future generations. By honoring and supporting mothers, we can help cultivate a society that upholds godly values and principles. [29:07]
Proverbs 31:26-28 (ESV): "She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her."
Reflection: Think about the values and lessons your mother or a mother figure in your life has instilled in you. How can you honor her influence by living out those values today?
Day 2: Perseverance in Motherhood
The story of King Solomon and the two women highlights the perseverance of a true mother. Despite numerous challenges, a godly mother remains steadfast in her love and commitment to her child. This perseverance is a reflection of God's unwavering love for us and serves as a powerful example of faith in action. Mothers juggle countless responsibilities, from daily chores to nurturing their children's spiritual growth. Their perseverance, even in the face of adversity, is a testament to their unwavering love and dedication. [36:12]
James 1:12 (ESV): "Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you witnessed or experienced the perseverance of a mother. How did her steadfastness impact you, and how can you apply that same perseverance in your own life?
Day 3: The Sacrificial Love of Mothers
True motherhood is marked by sacrifice. Just as the mother in Solomon's story was willing to give up her child to save his life, mothers today continually sacrifice their own needs and desires for the well-being of their children. This selfless love mirrors the sacrificial love of Jesus, who laid down His life for us. Mothers often put their children's needs above their own, whether it's through financial sacrifices, emotional support, or simply being present. Their sacrificial love is a powerful reflection of Christ's love for us. [42:03]
1 John 3:16 (ESV): "By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers."
Reflection: Consider a recent sacrifice a mother in your life has made for you or someone else. How can you show appreciation for her selfless love, and how can you emulate that sacrificial love in your own relationships?
Day 4: The Eternal Impact of a Mother's Faith
A mother's faith can have a lasting impact on her children's spiritual lives. Many of us owe our salvation to the persistent prayers and guidance of our mothers. This eternal perspective underscores the importance of raising children in the faith and continually praying for their salvation. A mother's faith can shape her children's understanding of God, instilling in them a deep and lasting relationship with Him. Her prayers and spiritual guidance can lead her children to a life of faith and eternal hope. [41:31]
2 Timothy 1:5 (ESV): "I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well."
Reflection: Reflect on the spiritual legacy of your mother or a mother figure in your life. How has her faith influenced your own spiritual journey, and how can you continue to build on that legacy?
Day 5: The Greatest Gift for Mothers
The greatest gift a child can give their mother is the assurance of their salvation. Knowing that their child has eternal hope in Jesus brings immense comfort and joy to a mother's heart. If you haven't yet given your life to Christ, consider doing so today as a way to honor your mother and secure your eternal future. This decision not only brings peace to a mother's heart but also aligns with God's desire for all to come to salvation. [47:54]
Acts 16:31 (ESV): "And they said, 'Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.'"
Reflection: If you have not yet accepted Jesus as your Savior, consider what is holding you back. How can you take a step toward faith today, not only for your own sake but also as a gift to your mother or a mother figure in your life?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Most moms are like, and most parents, for that matter, we want our kids to have things better than we did, don't we? I mean, that's just the way we think. Can I just tell you something? We've lived in a couple of generations now where I don't think that's the best way to be thinking about things. I'm being honest with you. I think we've had it really good for a few generations now. Maybe we ought to quit. Maybe we ought to let our kids learn some of the hard lessons by mistakes that we had to learn because life is pretty good in our country. We like to complain about it, but things are pretty good." [37:59]
2. "You may think it's cruel when your earthly mother, your godly mother, is pestering you about doing your homework or practicing piano or brushing your teeth. But you will be thankful one day when you get an education, when you can play an instrument, and when you don't have to keep your teeth in a glass beside the bed. Amen? I mean, you'll be thankful for that. Y'all listen to what they have to say." [38:37]
3. "Eternity is forever. And trying to win the souls of our children, y'all, if you're going to take a note today, y'all write this down. When it comes to winning the souls of our children, it's like wrestling a gorilla. You don't quit when you get tired. You quit when the gorilla gets tired. Okay? Okay? I mean, our kids are living in a world where there are so many negative influences. And that battle is too important to lose." [40:05]
4. "Moms give up so much. Basically give up their own lives and make their lives revolve around the interest of their kids, don't they? You know, Jesus spoke something about that. He said, greater love has no man than this that one lay down his life for his, you know, that's exactly what moms do. Moms sacrifice so much." [44:03]
5. "You want to really do something that would make your mom proud? If you've been putting it off, give your life to Jesus. If you're not a follower of Christ, there is nothing that honors your parents more than to give your life to Jesus so they can know that you have eternal hope in Jesus our Lord." [48:23]
### Quotes for Members
1. "Think of how many of you are here today and have assurance of salvation because your mom told you about Jesus. And isn't that a blessing to think about that? So moms, listen, we want to honor you today. At the close of the service, as you leave, we have a special gift for each mom and our young people." [14:31]
2. "If you think about who the most important influence is in their life, even if a child were to meet the President of the United States, you know, someone really powerful, and they begin to befriend that person, their mother will still be the strongest influence, probably, in their life. If you think about it, nothing influences our culture like moms, and one of the things I think about is the fact that not only do moms affect this generation, but how many of us have a godly mom that was raised by a godly mom, amen? That's the truth, and if you think about it, look at the generational influence that moms have on our culture." [29:07]
3. "When it comes to winning the souls of our children, it's like wrestling a gorilla. You don't quit when you get tired. You quit when the gorilla gets tired. Okay? Okay? I mean, our kids are living in a world where there are so many negative influences. And that battle is too important to lose. Now, I'm going to try to tell y'all this today. But my sweet grandmother went to her grave wrestling for the souls of two of her sons." [40:05]
4. "I know later in life, my dad gave his life to Jesus after she had died. But praise God for a grandmother who did not quit and kept wrestling in prayer for the souls of her sons. And grandmas and mamas, you hear me today, I know some of you are having the same wrestling match. And you come to me and say, Brother Chad, I don't know about this child. I hope they're saved, but I just don't know. And I don't know what's going to happen. And I'm telling you today, don't you give up. You keep fighting them. You don't quit because you're tired. You quit when that gorilla of sin gets tired. But you keep on, and you fight for the souls of your kids, moms. It's too important a battle, and we cannot lose it." [41:31]
5. "You see, this mom is willing to say, Look, it's not about me. In my recognition, it is about this child. And so I'll give him up if I have to to let him live. And I think about that. You know, moms give up a lot. Have y'all ever gotten that speech from your mom after all I've done for you? Y'all ever heard that one? Oh, my mama was good at it. So moms, y'all practice with me. Y'all do your head like this because you got to do the head. Do it, mamas. Y'all just struck the fear of God in everybody in this room by doing that. And I'm telling you, that's right." [42:03]
6. "You know, we talk about being pro-life and things like that. And I can't help but wonder how many young women who have had abortions had them because of the shame that they knew would be heaped onto them by some well-meaning person in the church that might've just been a hypocrite. And let's be honest about it. Sometimes the fact, oh, well, we can't have a shower. We can't do this. And I've heard so many crazy things. You hear me. Praise God for young ladies who are willing to have children and give up so much of their life to raise these kids and they ought to be celebrated and not shamed to death. That's the truth." [46:23]
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