Mom’s Devotional — Day One

READ

Proverbs 31:1-9

A wise woman cares for the next generation 

REFLECT

If you had the privilege of being influenced by a godly mother or mother-figure growing up, you can probably recall at least one piece of wisdom she passed down to you. Maybe she even had a memorable saying that you still find yourself repeating. Whether the importance of hard work, making the right choices, or avoiding the wrong crowd, mothers are often wellsprings of wisdom.

  In this first section of Proverbs 31, we learn that this famous chapter was actually inspired by the mother of a king named Lemuel. Historically speaking, very little is known about King Lemuel or his mother, but her words are described as an oracle or prophecy. That means they did not come from her own mother’s intuition or experience but rather were revealed to her by God Himself. 

The mother addresses her son first with words of affection, but shifts quickly to words of warning against getting involved with the wrong women or wasting time in drunkenness. Instead of giving in to these base desires, this godly mother calls her son higher – to lead with integrity and seek the good of others. This is the precursor for moving into the poetic description of the excellent wife, which you will begin in tomorrow’s reading. 

RESPOND

In what ways can you relate to the mother of King Lemuel? What is the most important wisdom you would want to pass on to the next generation? Spend some time praying for your children, grandchildren, and any other young people over whom God has given you influence.