April 24, 2005
"The Extreme Makeover—A Proverbs 31 M.O.T.H.E.R."
Extreme Makeover Family Edition—Part 4
Proverbs 31:10-31
Moms are valuable!
A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.
—Proverbs 31:10-12
Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons born in one's youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their enemies in the gate.
—Psalm 127:4, 5
"However, the sacrifices are worth it because relationships without regret are my best investment."—Susie Case, Life@Work, Volume 3, #6
Organized and Diligent
Three expressions of her organized and diligent work:
1. Eager worker
She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands. She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar. She gets up while it is still dark; she provides food for her family and portions for her servant girls.
—Proverbs 31:13-15
2. A risk taker
She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
—Proverbs 31:16
3. A vigorous worker
She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night. In her hand she holds the distaff, and grasps the spindle with her fingers.
—Proverbs 31:17-19
She watches over the affairs of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness.
—Proverbs 31:27
Tenderhearted with compassion
She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy.
—Proverbs 31:20
Honored and respected and not afraid of the future She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.
—Proverbs 31:25
She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
—Proverbs 31:26
Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
—Proverbs 12:18
Eloquently appreciated
Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.
—Proverbs 31:28
Reflected Godliness
Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all. Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.
—Proverbs 31:29-31
Extreme Makeover Family Edition—Week 4
Personal and Group Study
Getting Started
- Which TV mom did you enjoy watching most when you were growing up? How were they alike or different from you or your own mom?
- What are some of the pressures that are on moms today? Is it better or worse than it was in biblical times?
Digging Deeper
- Why do moms matter? Look at these passages of scripture: Exodus 2:1-42; 2 Timothy 1:5 and 3:15; 1 Samuel 1:22 and 2:19. Describe at least three reasons why they matter.
- Read 1 Kings 3:24-28. What was the real mom willing to sacrifice? How is this a picture of our faith?
- Read Matthew 15:21-15, 28. Give at least three passions this mom had for her child.
- Read 2 Timothy 1:1-7. What did Lois give to Eunice? How can we give what Lois gave Eunice, to our children? Our friends?
Putting It Into Action
- Write down the most positive, significant thing your mom has taught you and past it where you can read it throughout the week!
- Thank God for your mother and the mothers in your family. Pray for their strength and how you can support them.
- This week, encourage at least three moms by telling them how appreciated and valued they are!