Maternal Advice
By Ronald Thompkins
Sunday, May 11, 2003

This is usually the time of year we give recognition to mothers in general and ,specifically, give special honor to those who are Christian (not to be confused with many a good woman who is "religious").

This day is usually from a commercial standpoint part of the Church holiday "trilogy" [Christmas, Easter and Mother's day] (i.e., for those who may not otherwise see the auditorium of a church, churches are usually well attended on these days).

In recognition and celebration of the "virtuous" woman, during this season Proverbs 31:10-31 are often quoted and/or read. However, on this day I would like us to reflect on the first nine verses of this same chapter. [Proverbs 31:1-9].

I, was blessed to have a mother who was a faithful member of the Church of Christ. She not only lived those godly virtues espoused in verses 10 through 31, but what was special for me, was the maternal advice I would also get from her.

King Lemuel , who many scholars conclude is King Solomon, as identified in verse one discusses the "prophesies" taught him by his mother. She reminds him, he is from her womb. This boldly identifies the special connection and relationship that only mothers and their children have. The pitfalls and down falls of  "women and wine" are shared with the king by us mother. The mother warns the son he should not dissipate his physical talents on women [prior to marriage] and other acts ways which lead to physical as well as spiritual destruction.

As it relates to wine, she reminds him drunkedness is not appropriate for kings as some may suggest. It affects their ability to judge and rule righteously over those subjects and matters entrusted to them.

I Peter 2:5 and 9 reminds us of our holy and royal priesthood. Those who are mothers [in the Lord] as well as those who are children, what better time to reflect that in a day and age where mothers have become "co-fathers" or in some cases where there is no father, "the father", that special, godly designed role given to mothers as advisers to the royal priesthood, who came from their womb needs to be restored.

When we consider the quantity and complexity facing our youth today, such as sexual activity beginning as early as ten years of age; our children need more advice and counsel than ever.

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