happy mother's day [+] Friday e-Devotion

Where would we be without our moms? We wouldn't be here at all. You knew that. Some of us are more blessed than others. Take that! My mom is better than your mom (we will fight over this one).

Straight forward, my brothers and I have been so blessed to have a mom who goes the extra mile all the time. From my earliest memories my mom was my cheerleader, helper, corrector, after school teacher, maid, etc. I don't say those to so called "put moms in their place", but to thank God for a mom who will love her kids. By the way, I am the third son, the baby of the family (some of you think that makes me spoiled...that couldn't be further from the truth, I am just the perfect son...take that, Ric and Steve).

Furthermore, there is a godly example of a great mom that I share a bed with. My precious wife. She loves and cares for our kids like no one else. I am so proud of my wife. She learned from a great mom, and Julie continues to put the kids in the right places and to lift them. Often she has to remind me of stuff and to get us all on the same page. She not only is a great wife, Julie is an awesome mom.

Enough said about my two favorite moms. Now I want to give you just a picture of what God says about this lady. From Proverbs 31 (The Message Bible) here are some selected verses:

a great wife --- A good woman is hard to find, and worth far more than diamonds. Her husband trusts her without reserve, and never has reason to regret it.

a good shopper --- She shops around for the best yarns and cottons, and enjoys knitting and sewing. She's like a trading ship that sails to faraway places and brings back exotic surprises.

an excellent provider --- She's up before dawn, preparing breakfast for her family and organizing her day.

wise in many areas --- She looks over a field and buys it, then, with money she's put aside, plants a garden.

a hard worker --- First thing in the morning, she dresses for work, rolls up her sleeves, eager to get started. She senses the worth of her work, is in no hurry to call it quits for the day. She's skilled in the crafts of home and hearth, diligent in homemaking.

kind and giving to others --- She's quick to assist anyone in need, reaches out to help the poor.

takes care of things before they are needed --- She doesn't worry about her family when it snows; their winter clothes are all mended and ready to wear.

she has good character --- Her clothes are well-made and elegant, and she always faces tomorrow with a smile.

our job is --- Her children respect and bless her; her husband joins in with words of praise:

In conclusion --- "Many women have done wonderful things, but you've outclassed them all!" Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades. The woman to be admired and praised is the woman who lives in the Fear-of-God. Give her everything she deserves! Fill her life with praises!

Mom, thanks for being you! I love you. Happy Mother's day...

Julie, you are such a good wife, and I appreciate who you are and what you do. Happy Mother's Day, and I love you!