Maintaining a Godly Relationship With Your Mother
Mother’s Day is coming, and for Christians, this means finding ways to make her feel special while still putting God at the center. Here are some ways to maintain a godly relationship with your mom!
What Does the Bible Say About Mothers?
The Bible teaches that honoring one’s mother is important to God’s commandments. Exodus 20:12 says, “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.”
This commandment is reiterated in the New Testament in Ephesians 6:2-3, which says, “Honor your father and mother,” which is the first commandment with a promise: “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy a long life on the earth.”
Christians must show respect, love, and gratitude toward our mothers. This includes treating them with kindness, listening to them, and obeying them (as long as it is in accordance with God’s will). We are also called to provide for them and care for them in their old age, as Jesus himself did for his own mother when he was on the cross (John 19:26-27).
A Godly relationship with your mother involves communicating with her regularly. This means listening to her, sharing your thoughts and feelings, and seeking her guidance and wisdom. It can also include forgiving our mother when she makes mistakes and showing her grace and love.
Honoring Your Mother Goes Beyond Obeying the Commandments
Having a Godly connection with your mother is also a way of expressing gratitude for the gift of life that she has given us. Our mothers have carried us in their wombs, given birth, and nurtured and cared for us as we grow up. They have sacrificed much for our sake, and it is only right that we show them love and appreciation in return.
When we show love toward our mothers, we set a good example for others, particularly our own children, to follow. We also become role models to individuals who do not know God yet.
Ways to Maintain a Godly Relationship With Your Mother
Here are some ideas to keep your connection with your mother strong and faith-based, especially this coming Mother’s Day.
Spend Time Together
Spending time together deepens your relationship, fosters a sense of closeness and intimacy, and shows her that you value her presence in your life.
You could go out for a meal together after Sunday service. Talk about your Christian life over good food in a relaxed setting. You can also do a shared hobby, such as gardening, painting, or cooking. Plan a trip with your mother to a destination you would enjoy. This allows you to create new memories and strengthen your bond.
Help With Practical Needs
As a Christian, loving and serving others, including our mothers is essential. One way to do this is by asking her what she needs. If your mother needs to run errands or go shopping, offer to go with her or do it for her. This can be especially helpful if she has difficulty getting around or is not feeling well.
It does not take a lot to help her. Perhaps you can prepare a hearty meal for her, especially if she is busy or not feeling well. You could even plan a meal together and make it a fun activity.
Pray for Her
Praying for your mother is a great way to show your love and concern for her. Ask God to bless your mother with good health and to protect her from illness and injury. Pray for her emotional well-being and ask God to comfort her during stress or anxiety.
Ask God to bless your mother’s relationships with family and friends and to give her the patience and love that she needs to navigate any challenges that arise. Pray that God would surround her with people who love and support her.
Respect Her Opinions
Proverbs 23:22 encourages us to listen to our parents and not take them for granted, especially as they age. When your mother expresses her opinion, give her your full attention and listen carefully to what she has to say. This shows that you value her perspective and are interested in what she says.
It’s also crucial to be willing to consider her point of view and try to see things from her perspective. Avoid arguing or getting defensive if you have a different opinion from your mother. Instead, try to have a calm and respectful conversation where you can share your own perspective while also listening to hers.