The world has produced many philosophies by which people try to lead their lives and to train their children. They wish to free themselves to do as they please. They want no absolutes — no hard and fast rules. They practice situation ethics — doing what they think best at the moment. They can always find some excuse for what they do, or else someone to blame. Then there is no guilt, no repentance — and no help for the individual's greatest problem, sin. Leading children in the world's way is leading them to an eternal dead end.
When God tells us to "train up a child," it is to be "in the training and admonition of the Lord" (Ephesians 6:4). It begins with baptism. Then, at an early age, Bible stories with pictures can be used. Sunday School, the Catechism, and confirmation class follow. And all the while there is the example set by the God-fearing mother and father in church attendance and in daily life.
When "the law of the mother" is drawn from God's Word, the child does well to heed and not forsake. Then the mother is training the child, not only for this life, but more importantly, for the life eternal.
The proverb declares: "A woman who fears the Lord shall be praised" (Proverbs 6:20). When the woman is also a mother, she should be especially praised — for her faith and for her example to her family.
May all of our mothers be thus praiseworthy. And may we all give them the praise and honor that God would have us give them.
— From the Lutheran Spokesman |
