Proverbs 31:10–15
10 Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.
11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.
12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
13 She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.
14 She is like the merchants’ ships; she bringeth her food from afar.
15 She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.

Biblical Insight
While the Book of Proverbs has a universal appeal because anyone can glean from its teaching, Wisdom Literature in the Bible often focused on training young men. They needed to know how to honor their parents, behave in the king’s court, and conduct themselves properly at all times. While we recognize the importance of wisdom in the palace and among the elders at the city gate, we cannot ignore the fact that wisdom often begins at home. The Bible speaks of wise women, and Proverbs 31 tells the story of one of the wisest and most prosperous woman of all time. She must have taught her children well—both her sons and her daughters.

Daily Devotion
Many nations around the world have instituted laws that establish the rights of women. North Americans generally provide and protect a place for women to forge their own paths. Today we are surrounded by women making a difference in the home and in the world at large.

This is no new thing; the pattern was set by the virtuous woman of Proverbs 31. In addition to her influence in the community, Scripture bares out that she cared for household. A mother’s influence is understated today. Those who one day become business owners, teachers, doctors, creatives, lawyers and everything else first sit in the presence of their greatest teacher, their mother. Not only are lessons concerning basic education bestowed upon the little hearts and minds of civilization, but also the examples of character, moral responsibility, and righteous living.

A mother’s influence is a bedrock for each individual, and the impact shapes our world. Our greatest calling may not be what we do, but whom we raise. Take a moment to honor your mother or her memory this week. If you are a mother, be encouraged that you are a treasure and your influence is far-reaching.