“No one can duplicate the influence of a mother. … Anytime I use the word ‘mother,’ I am not talking only about women who have given birth or adopted children in this life. I am speaking about all of our heavenly parents’ adult daughters. Every woman is a mother by virtue of her eternal divine destiny.” Russell M. Nelson
In today’s world, the role of mothers as nurturers is often undervalued or misunderstood. Yet, throughout history and across cultures, mothers have been celebrated for their unique ability to nurture and care for their children. From a gospel perspective, the role of mothers as nurturers is not only affirmed but deeply rooted in the very essence of God’s design for families.
From the creation account in Genesis, we see that God designed women with the remarkable ability to bear and nurture children. In Genesis 1:28, God commands Adam and Eve to “be fruitful and multiply.” This mandate speaks to the physical act of bearing children and implies the nurturing responsibility that comes with parenthood.
Biblical Examples of Nurturing Mothers
Sarah eventually bore Isaac in her old age (Genesis 21). She exemplifies patience and trust in God’s promises.
Hannah, Samuel’s mother, fervently prays for a child (1 Samuel 1), demonstrating her deep desire to nurture and raise a child dedicated to God’s service.
Perhaps the most famous mother in the Bible, Mary nurtured and raised Jesus, the Son of God, with love and obedience to God’s will.
Characteristics of a Nurturing Mother
Love and Compassion – Proverbs 31:26 describes a godly woman as one who “opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.” Nurturing mothers exemplify kindness and compassion in their words and actions.
Patience and Guidance – Ephesians 6:4 instructs parents to “bring children up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” Nurturing mothers patiently guide their children, teaching them values and principles rooted in Scripture.
Prayerful Intercession – Proverbs 22:6 encourages parents to “train up a child in the way he should go,” recognizing the importance of prayer and spiritual guidance in nurturing children. I think we often think of nurturing a child while they are young, but I don’t know if I’ve ever prayed more for my children than I do now that they are young adults.
Nurturing children is not without its challenges. It requires sacrifice, patience, and unwavering commitment. However, the rewards are immeasurable. Proverbs 31:28 praises a godly woman, saying, “Her children rise up and call her blessed.”
Mothers are pivotal as nurturers in the family, reflecting God’s love and care for His children. From Eve, the mother of all living, to Mary, the mother of Jesus, there are many biblical examples of women who embraced their role with faithfulness and dedication. May we continue to cherish and support mothers in their noble task of nurturing the next generation.
As we reflect on mothers as nurturers from a biblical perspective, let us remember one of my favorite scripture verses, Proverbs 31:30: “Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”