Honoring Mothers: Faith, Legacy, and God's Provision
Summary
Today is a day to honor and celebrate the mothers in our lives—those who have given of themselves, whether by blood or by spiritual adoption, to nurture, guide, and love us. Their sacrifices, wisdom, and steadfastness are a reflection of God’s own goodness and mercy, which endures forever. We take time to express our gratitude, not just with words, but with genuine appreciation and praise, recognizing that mothers are truly special in both our eyes and in the eyes of the Lord.
The Word of God, especially in Proverbs 31, paints a picture of a virtuous woman whose worth is far above rubies. Her strength, honor, wisdom, and kindness are not just external traits, but a spiritual clothing that sets her apart. She is diligent, watching over her household, and her children and husband rise up to call her blessed. This is not about perfection, but about a heart that fears the Lord and seeks to do good. It’s a reminder to honor and praise the mothers and wives in our lives, to give them grace and encouragement rather than criticism, and to recognize the immense value they bring to our homes.
We also looked at the story of the widow of Zarephath in 1 Kings 17, who, in a moment of great need, chose to trust the word of the Lord above her own understanding. Her faith not only sustained her and her son through famine, but also led to a miracle of resurrection. This faith, when lived out, is observed and absorbed by the next generation. Paul’s words to Timothy highlight the generational impact of sincere faith, passed down from grandmother to mother to son. What we model—our trust in God, our response to challenges, our spoken words—shapes the faith of our children far more than our instructions alone.
A challenge was given, especially to mothers, to lay down worry and fear, and instead take up faith. Worry does not add to our lives or our homes; it only breeds fear. Instead, we are called to cast all our cares upon the Lord, trusting that He cares for us and will provide for every need. Seeking first the kingdom of God puts all things in perspective and allows us to enjoy the precious time we have with our families. Let us be people who pass on faith, not fear, and who create homes filled with God’s peace, joy, and love.
Key Takeaways
- The true value of a godly mother or wife is beyond measure, not found in outward beauty or charm, but in her reverence for the Lord, her strength, and her wisdom. This spiritual “clothing” is visible in her actions and words, and it brings security and blessing to her family. We are called to honor and praise such women, recognizing their unique and irreplaceable role in our lives. [44:31]
- Faith is not just a private conviction but a legacy to be passed on. The story of the widow of Zarephath shows that when a mother steps out in faith, even in the face of risk and uncertainty, her children witness the reality of God’s provision and power. This lived faith becomes a foundation for the next generation, teaching them to trust God beyond what they can see or understand. [54:21]
- What we model in our homes—especially in times of struggle—matters more than what we say. Children are shaped by observing how we respond to challenges: do we turn to God, admit our need, and walk in faith, or do we rely on our own strength and succumb to worry? Authenticity in our walk with God, including our failures and our dependence on Him, is what truly passes on faith to our children. [01:07:34]
- Worry and fear are subtle forms of pride, signaling that we are trying to control what only God can handle. When we take up cares that are not ours to bear, we rob ourselves and our families of peace and invite anxiety into our homes. God’s invitation is to cast all our cares upon Him, trusting that He knows, He cares, and He is able to provide and guide us in every situation. [01:17:06]
- The antidote to worry is seeking first the kingdom of God. When we prioritize God’s presence and direction each day, He brings clarity, provision, and peace. This not only frees us from the weight of anxiety but also allows us to enjoy our families and fulfill our calling as mothers, fathers, and believers. Our children need to see us seeking God first, so they learn to do the same. [01:23:51]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[29:28] - Honoring Mothers in Prayer
[33:10] - Celebrating Moms and Announcements
[37:38] - The Importance of Appreciation
[39:21] - The Danger of Selfishness in Relationships
[42:46] - Mother’s Day Gift Drawings
[43:16] - Proverbs 31: The Virtuous Woman
[44:31] - The Incomparable Worth of a Godly Woman
[46:59] - Praising and Blessing Mothers
[50:59] - The Widow of Zarephath: Faith in Action
[54:21] - Generational Faith: Passing It On
[01:02:04] - The Power of a Mother’s Influence
[01:07:34] - Modeling Faith, Not Perfection
[01:09:52] - Worry vs. Faith in the Home
[01:17:06] - Casting Cares and Trusting God
[01:23:51] - Seek First the Kingdom
[01:26:38] - Enjoying Family and Letting Go of Worry
[01:27:38] - Closing Prayer and Blessing
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: Honoring Mothers, Passing on Faith, and Trusting God
---
### Bible Reading
- Proverbs 31:10-12, 25-31
(The virtuous woman: her worth, strength, wisdom, and the blessing she brings to her family)
- 1 Kings 17:7-24
(The widow of Zarephath: faith in God’s word, provision in famine, and the miracle for her son)
- 2 Timothy 1:5
(Paul remembers the sincere faith passed from grandmother to mother to Timothy)
- Matthew 6:25-34
(Jesus teaches not to worry, but to seek first the kingdom of God)
---
### Observation Questions
1. According to Proverbs 31, what are some of the qualities that make a woman’s worth “far above rubies”?
*(see [43:16])*
2. In the story of the widow of Zarephath, what did Elijah ask her to do, and how did she respond?
*(see [50:59])*
3. What does Paul say about Timothy’s faith in 2 Timothy 1:5, and where did that faith come from?
*(see [54:21])*
4. In Matthew 6, what reasons does Jesus give for not worrying about our needs?
*(see [01:23:51])*
---
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think the Bible describes a godly woman’s strength, honor, and wisdom as “clothing”? How does this spiritual clothing affect her family?
*(see [44:06])*
2. The widow of Zarephath had to trust God’s word over her own understanding and resources. What does this story teach about the risks and rewards of faith, especially in times of need?
*(see [54:21])*
3. Paul points out that Timothy’s faith was passed down from his grandmother and mother. What does this suggest about the influence of parents and grandparents on the next generation’s faith?
*(see [54:21])*
4. The sermon says that worry and fear are “subtle forms of pride” because we try to control what only God can handle. How does this idea challenge the way we usually think about worry?
*(see [01:17:06])*
---
### Application Questions
1. Proverbs 31 says a godly woman is to be praised and honored. Think about the mothers or spiritual mothers in your life. What is one specific way you can show them genuine appreciation this week—not just with words, but with action?
*(see [46:59])*
2. The widow of Zarephath modeled faith in front of her son, even when it was hard. What is one area in your life where you need to trust God’s word above your own understanding or resources? How could your response influence those watching you, especially your children or family?
*(see [54:21])*
3. The sermon says what we model in our homes matters more than what we say. Can you think of a recent situation where your actions spoke louder than your words to your family? Was it an example of faith or of worry?
*(see [01:07:34])*
4. Worry is described as a form of pride and self-reliance. Is there a specific worry or care you’ve been holding onto that you need to “cast on the Lord”? What would it look like to actually do that this week?
*(see [01:17:06])*
5. Jesus says to “seek first the kingdom of God.” What is one practical way you can start your day by seeking God first, instead of letting worry set the tone?
*(see [01:23:51])*
6. The sermon challenges us to pass on faith, not fear, to the next generation. What is one thing you can do this week to model faith for your children, grandchildren, or someone you influence?
*(see [54:21])*
7. The pastor mentioned that sometimes we focus on what someone isn’t doing instead of what they are doing. Is there someone in your home or life you’ve been critical of? How can you intentionally encourage or praise them instead?
*(see [46:59])*
---
Closing Thought:
Let’s remember that honoring mothers, living out faith, and trusting God with our worries are not just for one day a year, but for every day. As we encourage and support each other, may our homes be filled with God’s peace, joy, and love.
Devotional
Day 1: The Priceless Value of a Godly Woman
A godly woman is described as being worth far more than rubies, clothed with strength and honor, and speaking wisdom and kindness. Her diligence and care for her household are constant, and her children and husband rise up to call her blessed. This kind of woman is not praised for outward beauty or charm, but for her reverence for the Lord, which is the true source of her praise and value. The impact of her faithfulness and character brings security and blessing to her family, and she is to be honored and cherished above all earthly treasures. [44:31]
Proverbs 31:10-12, 25-31 (ESV)
10 An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels.
11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain.
12 She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life.
25 Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come.
26 She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.
27 She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
28 Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:
29 “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.”
30 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.
31 Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates.
Reflection: Who is a woman in your life—mother, wife, or spiritual mother—whom you can intentionally honor and bless today for her godly influence?
Day 2: Faith That Sustains and Multiplies
The story of the widow of Zarephath shows the power of trusting God’s word even when circumstances seem dire. Despite her lack, the widow obeyed the word of the Lord through Elijah, risking her last meal to serve God first. Her faith not only provided for her and her son during famine, but also led to a miraculous resurrection when her son fell ill. This faith, demonstrated in action, was witnessed by her child and became a legacy of trust in God’s provision and power, showing that obedience to God’s word brings supernatural sustenance and blessing. [54:21]
1 Kings 17:7-24 (ESV)
7 And after a while the brook dried up, because there was no rain in the land.
8 Then the word of the Lord came to him,
9 “Arise, go to Zarephath, which belongs to Sidon, and dwell there. Behold, I have commanded a widow there to feed you.”
10 So he arose and went to Zarephath. And when he came to the gate of the city, behold, a widow was there gathering sticks. And he called to her and said, “Bring me a little water in a vessel, that I may drink.”
11 And as she was going to bring it, he called to her and said, “Bring me a morsel of bread in your hand.”
12 And she said, “As the Lord your God lives, I have nothing baked, only a handful of flour in a jar and a little oil in a jug. And now I am gathering a couple of sticks that I may go in and prepare it for myself and my son, that we may eat it and die.”
13 And Elijah said to her, “Do not fear; go and do as you have said. But first make me a little cake of it and bring it to me, and afterward make something for yourself and your son.
14 For thus says the Lord, the God of Israel, ‘The jar of flour shall not be spent, and the jug of oil shall not be empty, until the day that the Lord sends rain upon the earth.’”
15 And she went and did as Elijah said. And she and he and her household ate for many days.
16 The jar of flour was not spent, neither did the jug of oil become empty, according to the word of the Lord that he spoke by Elijah.
17 After this the son of the woman, the mistress of the house, became ill. And his illness was so severe that there was no breath left in him.
18 And she said to Elijah, “What have you against me, O man of God? You have come to me to bring my sin to remembrance and to cause the death of my son!”
19 And he said to her, “Give me your son.” And he took him from her arms and carried him up into the upper chamber where he lodged, and laid him on his own bed.
20 And he cried to the Lord, “O Lord my God, have you brought calamity even upon the widow with whom I sojourn, by killing her son?”
21 Then he stretched himself upon the child three times and cried to the Lord, “O Lord my God, let this child’s life come into him again.”
22 And the Lord listened to the voice of Elijah. And the life of the child came into him again, and he revived.
23 And Elijah took the child and brought him down from the upper chamber into the house and delivered him to his mother. And Elijah said, “See, your son lives.”
24 And the woman said to Elijah, “Now I know that you are a man of God, and that the word of the Lord in your mouth is truth.”
Reflection: What is one area where God is asking you to trust Him beyond what you can see or understand, and how can you take a step of faith today?
Day 3: Passing On Genuine Faith to the Next Generation
The faith that lives in a mother or grandmother has the power to shape generations, as seen in Timothy’s life. Paul recognized that Timothy’s sincere and unqualified faith was first found in his grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice, and was now evident in him. This kind of faith is not inherited by genetics but is transferred through example, words, and daily living. The influence of a mother’s faith is profound, and what children see and hear from their parents will often become the foundation of their own walk with God. [01:02:53]
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: What are you intentionally modeling and speaking to the next generation that will help them build a foundation of faith in God?
Day 4: Speaking and Living Faith Over Worry
Faith is not just a belief in the heart but is expressed through words and actions. Jesus taught that faith can move mountains, but it must first move us—changing how we speak and act. Worry and fear, especially in the home, can be contagious and create an atmosphere of anxiety, but when we choose to speak God’s promises and act in faith, we bring peace and confidence to our families. Instead of declaring lack or uncertainty, declare God’s provision and guidance, and let your children and spouse see you trusting God in every circumstance. [01:14:10]
Mark 11:22-23 (ESV)
22 And Jesus answered them, “Have faith in God.
23 Truly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and thrown into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will come to pass, it will be done for him.”
Reflection: What is one negative or fearful statement you often make about your family or situation, and how can you replace it today with a declaration of faith?
Day 5: Casting All Your Cares on God
God calls us to cast all our cares upon Him, refusing to carry the burdens of worry, fear, or the need to control everything. Worrying does not add anything to our lives, but seeking God first and trusting Him with our needs brings peace and provision. Jesus reminds us that our heavenly Father knows what we need and will provide as we seek His kingdom above all else. Letting go of anxiety and entrusting every concern to God allows us to enjoy our families and fulfill our roles with joy and freedom. [01:25:37]
Matthew 6:25-33 (ESV)
25 “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?
26 Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?
27 And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?
28 And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin,
29 yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
30 But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
31 Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’
32 For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all.
33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
Reflection: What is one specific worry or care you need to cast on the Lord today, and how can you practically surrender it to Him as you seek His kingdom first?
Quotes
She is constantly watching over her household without idleness. You know, there's been times in our marriage that I've had to tell Christy, hey, it's okay. You can chill. Like, not in a bad way. I didn't tell my wife to chill out. Don't do that. That's not recommended. But giving her the ease to say, you've done good, all right? You can sit. You can rest. Everything's going to be okay. [00:48:06] (22 seconds)
But Elijah knew something that this woman didn't know. And so she had to trust in the word of the Lord. Now in this moment, in this time, the word of the Lord is Elijah because they don't have, you know, the Bible like we have it. So they, they, and they don't have the Holy Spirit like we have the Holy Spirit to be able to communicate to God. [00:53:14] (19 seconds)
And so the widow's faith in the words of Elijah are, we could say it this way, the words of God, because he was speaking the word that God had for him and had for her, sustained her and her son and also raised her son up from the dead. [00:55:29] (17 seconds)
The things that our children are going to pick up from us is what they actually see us do, not what they necessarily just hear us say. And if what they hear us say doesn't match up to what they see us do, most of the time they're going to look at that and go, well, I'm just going to do what they do. [01:07:34] (17 seconds)
Stop saying we don't have enough money. Some of the people that I've heard say they don't have enough money the most are the people who got more money and people, most everybody in Shelby County, scared about it, worried about it. Stop saying that. That's not faith. Start saying, my God supplies all of our needs according to His riches and glory in Christ Jesus. [01:13:30] (24 seconds)
If you want to defeat worry in your life, you want to defeat taking up cares in your life, the first thing you need to do is make sure that you're waking up in the morning and you're seeking the kingdom of God first, not that big list of worry and fear. Because God can put all those things in perspective in that moment. [01:24:33] (21 seconds)
I think the worry and the care that comes from a mother's heart is really truly out of love. But really from a place where I want you to be the happiest lady that you can be. I want you to enjoy your family as much as you can. And I know you're not going to do that as long as you're weighted down with worries and fears. [01:26:21] (22 seconds)
When something becomes so big that you can't get it out of your heart and that's all you can think about, that's all you can worry about, understand that's your check engine light coming on. And it's time to stop and it's time to cast that upon the Lord and have the Lord direct you on how to navigate that situation. [01:27:17] (18 seconds)
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