Children who are taught the Bible from the very beginning have a marvelous advantage. Studies have consistently shown an overwhelming majority of genuinely Christian adults accepted Christ during childhood. And mothers are identified as the single largest influence in teaching the Scriptures to their children.
Such was the case with young Timothy. Long before the apostle Paul led him to a saving knowledge of Christ, Timothy had “from a child…known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 3:15). This knowledge came from the teachings of two godly women, and Paul would later “call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice” (2 Timothy 1:5).
The love of a good mother is invaluable in the life of a child. But that value is exponentially far greater when the mother is also a follower of Christ. A godly father or grandfather may well exert great influence for good in a child’s life, but a godly mother—one who loves the Lord, studies the Scriptures, and teaches them to her children—has a value “far above rubies” (Proverbs 31:10).
I am blessed to have such a mother. Some of my earliest memories are of my mother, Jan Morris, teaching Bible stories in Sunday school from an old flannelboard she held in her lap. And during my boyhood years she encouraged me to memorize Scripture, often testing me as I practiced my verses to earn merit badges for Boys Brigade and Awana. Most of all, I am thankful for her constant prayers throughout my life. My mother is the most fearsome prayer warrior I have ever known, and much of my spiritual growth is due to her faithful intercession for me. A good mother’s love for her children never fades—but in my experience, the prayers of a godly mother, along with her love, always increase with the passage of time.
The fifth of God’s great Ten Commandments requires children to honor their parents (Exodus 20:12), and it is significant this is the only one that carries a special promise. Centuries later, Paul would later confirm and even strengthen this commandment when he wrote, “Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth” (Ephesians 6:2-3). God considers this to be of such importance that long and productive lives are promised to those children who obey.
Through the years, ICR has been blessed to receive many gifts made in honor or in memory of loved ones. But the number of gifts made in honor of Mom far outweighs them all! If you are looking for a unique way to honor your mother, please consider a gift to ICR that will recognize her godly influence on your life. In exchange, it is ICR’s sincere privilege to send special letters of thanks and recognition to all family and friends you so designate. ICR will provide you with a copy of all letters prepared on your behalf, along with our thanks and a tax-deductible receipt for your gift.
Every godly parent is worthy of honor by their children—every day, not just once a year—and especially those godly mothers who taught us the ways of God. Such mothers will indeed have occasion to “rejoice in time to come” as “her children arise up, and call her blessed” (Proverbs 31:25, 28).
* Mr. Morris is Director of Donor Relations at the Institute for Creation Research.
Cite this article: Morris IV, H. 2013. Arise and Call Her Blessed. Acts & Facts. 42 (5): 21.
